Latest news with #MielleOrganics


CNN
13-07-2025
- Health
- CNN
11 of the best castor oils for hair growth and a healthy scalp
Castor oil for hair quick picks Organic pure castor oil: Sky Organics Organic Castor Oil Pre-shower scalp treatment: Fable & Mane HoliRoots Prewash Hair Treatment Oil No-rinse conditioning blend: Carol's Daughter Goddess Strength Scalp and Hair Oil Helping to keep strands hydrated and soothe the scalp, castor oil is commonly found in many hair care products and standalone treatments. Rumors have swirled in online communities that castor oil, much like rosemary oil, not only helps hair look and feel healthier, but it can make it grow faster too. To help investigate these claims, we tapped board-certified dermatologists to better understand castor oil's benefits, how it works and whether it can truly help with hair growth. Keryòl Essence Haitian Black Castor Oil Dr. Dara Spearman, a board-certified dermatologist and owner of Radiant Dermatology Associates in Fort Wayne, Indiana, said you can use this richly textured oil as a deep conditioner to treat damaged hair. Harvested and hand-processed in Haiti, this oil can be used on the scalp, hair, skin and beard for adding extra moisture. Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil Made with a combination of rosemary, mint, castor and other essential oils, this Mielle treatment helps boost circulation to the scalp, which Dr. Marisa Garshick, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, said helps stimulate hair follicles, aiding in hair growth and thickening. Though your results may vary for hair growth, this under-$10 oil is an affordable option for those curious to try castor oil for themselves. Fable & Mane HoliRoots Prewash Hair Treatment Oil Made with castor oil and ashwagandha, an antioxidant and adaptogen that's believed to lower stress hormones, this Fable & Mane oil is a favorite of Dr. Michele J. Farber, a board-certified dermatologist from Philadelphia. Dr. Brendan Camp, a double board-certified dermatologist at Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery, is also a fan, noting that the blend also contains dashmool — a combination of Indian herbs that help to calm the scalp. Nioxin Night Density Rescue Treatment Garshick recommends this clinically proven hair treatment for those looking to thicken their hair. It contains castor oil, along with a blend of antioxidants, biotin and hydrating panthenol. Use it as an overnight leave-in treatment and with consistent use, you should notice less shedding and hair fall. The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density While you can use standalone castor oil, you'll see it formulated into other hair care products, like this serum from The Ordinary. The water-based formula is lightweight but packed with peptides, antioxidants, vitamins, humectants and conditioners that work to support overall scalp and hair health. In addition to castor oil, this blend also contains caffeine, which Garshick said aids in boosting the scalp's circulation. Sky Organics Organic Castor Oil Farber likes this pure cold-pressed castor oil from Sky Organics, which is made for the scalp, hair and other uses. Beauty and fashion editor Sophie Shaw is also a fan of this organic castor oil and likes the eyelash serum kit that comes with applicators for the brows and lashes. ArtNaturals Organic Rosemary & Castor Hair Growth Oil and Scalp Massager Set This scalp set from ArtNaturals comes with a blend of castor and rosemary oils, and a scalp massager that Spearman said can help further enhance circulation to the head. Ceremonia Aceite de Moska Scalp Oil Suitable for all hair types, this silicone-free scalp oil is made to treat common scalp concerns like dryness and itchiness. You can use it one to two times a week as a pre-shower treatment, or if you have an extra-dry scalp, you can leave the oil on overnight and wash it out in the morning. Cécred Nourishing Hair Oil Infused with 13 oils, including castor, sea buckthorn, baobab, argan and sweet almond, this nourishing hair oil from Beyoncé's Cécred hair care line comes recommended by Camp for its ability to seal in moisture, ensuring hair stays hydrated, soft and flexible. Briogeo Curl Charisma Organic and Cold-Pressed 100% Castor Oil 'This cold-pressed castor oil contains humectants, vitamin E and omega fatty acids, which work together to keep the hair healthy and hydrated,' Garshick said. 'It can be used on the hair, as well as eyebrows and eyelashes.' Carol's Daughter Goddess Strength Scalp and Hair Oil With a no-rinse application, this Carol's Daughter hair oil is made to be spread over the scalp after hair washing. The lightweight formula is gentle enough to use daily, and the nozzle-tip applicator makes it easy to apply the seven oil blend directly to the scalp. Unlike some oils that are composed mostly of fats, castor oil is rich in protein, antioxidants and other beneficial nutrients. 'As a result, it can be helpful for the skin, scalp and hair,' Garshick said. 'Castor oil provides hydration and conditions the hair since it's rich in ricinoleic acid and fatty acids, which serve as natural emollients for the hair.' Spearman added that the ricinoleic acid has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help keep the scalp clean while the emollients in castor oil prevent dryness and improve hair texture. Despite all of its great features, there's no concrete clinical evidence to support castor oil's ability to grow hair. However, because of castor oil's antimicrobial and antifungal properties, it can help to nourish the scalp and create a healthy environment for hair to grow, which is why Garshick said there are some anecdotal tales of people noticing an improvement in their hair after using it. Farber added that castor oil is also humectant, meaning it helps to reduce moisture loss that can lead to hair breakage. Though there are medications like minoxidil and finasteride that can help increase hair growth, some people prefer natural treatments like oils since they're more affordable, more accessible and made without synthetic chemicals. Though, Camp said you should see a board-certified dermatologist if you're experiencing hair loss that does not respond to over-the-counter treatments or is negatively impacting your quality of life. After drying and detangling your hair, section it and apply castor oil to the scalp and hair using your finger or a small applicator. If you're new to castor oil, Farber recommends starting with a small amount of oil and leaving it on for only 15 to 20 minutes to prevent clogging pores around the hair follicles. Depending on the specific formulation and what your hair and scalp can tolerate, you can leave castor oil on for several hours or even overnight, according to Garshick. Spearman said some people prefer to leave the oil on overnight for better absorption into the scalp, but she recommends covering your hair with a towel or shower cap to protect your bedding. If you're applying oil during the day, Spearman said to leave it on for one to two hours in order to reap the benefits without risking irritation or buildup. 'The frequency of applying castor oil typically depends on your hair type, but usually applying one to two times per week is enough to benefit from its effects without causing excessive buildup,' Spearman said. The following FAQs have been answered by board-certified dermatologists Dr. Brendan Camp, Dr. Dara Spearman and Dr. Joshua Zeichner. What is castor oil? What is castor oil? Castor oil is created by cold-pressing the seeds or beans of the castor plant, which is commonly found in regions of Africa, India and South America. 'Castor oil is loaded with ricinoleic acid, a potent antioxidant that protects the skin from free radical damage that causes collagen damage and wrinkles,' Zeichner said. 'It contains fatty acids [that] naturally have emollient benefits to hydrate and soothe the skin.' How long will it take castor oil to grow hair? How long will it take castor oil to grow hair? Camp said you might notice softer, more hydrated or flexible hair after one to two weeks of using castor oil or castor oil-based hair care products. For hair growth, you should use castor oil regularly for at least three to four months before deciding whether or not it's an effective treatment for you. Remember, hair grows slowly at around a half-inch per month. Results can also depend on hair type. Spearman said some people might see improvements in hair health and texture after just a few weeks, but more noticeable changes usually occur after around three to six months of consistent application. What are the disadvantages of castor oil on hair? What are the disadvantages of castor oil on hair? Castor oil is generally well-tolerated by most people, but any topical treatment risks irritating the skin. 'There have been some allergic reactions to castor oil noted, which may lead to a chance of getting allergic dermatitis,' Garshick said. 'Overuse and improper hair washing of the castor oil may also lead to buildup, which may contribute to irritation and breakouts.' With this in mind, it's always a good idea to patch test some product on a small area of skin before using castor oil all over your scalp. You should also deeply wash your hair and scalp to make sure no oil is left behind post-treatment. Spearman said that if you have fine hair, you may want to be careful of thick oil formulations that can be more likely to clog pores and weigh hair down. What will happen if I leave castor oil on my hair for too long? What will happen if I leave castor oil on my hair for too long? Overuse of castor oil can lead to clogged pores, greasy hair or scalp irritation, according to Spearman. She also said that in some cases, castor oil can lead to hair felting, where the hair becomes irreversibly tangled and matted. Other risks include redness, itching, rashes and allergic reactions. Camp also cautions that any oil-based product may exacerbate acne in those with oily or acne-prone skin. Is it safe to use castor oil on eyebrows? Is it safe to use castor oil on eyebrows? Spearman said it's common for people to use castor oil for eyebrow and beard hair, though you should patch test beforehand to check for signs of skin irritation. If you are applying castor oil to your eyebrows, you only need to use a small amount and should avoid any contact with the eyes or eye area. A Q-tip or clean brow spoolie can be helpful for getting a more precise application. For this article, we consulted the following dermatologists to gain their professional insights. Dr. Brendan Camp, a double board-certified dermatologist at Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery Dr. Michele J. Farber, a board-certified dermatologist from Philadelphia. Dr. Marisa Garshick, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City Dr. Dara Spearman, a board-certified dermatologist and owner of Radiant Dermatology Associates in Fort Wayne, Indiana Dr. Joshua Zeichner, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, CNN Underscored has a team of writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when relevant to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this story, associate editor Jillian Tracy consulted five dermatologists to better explain how castor oil can benefit your hair and scalp.


CNN
25-06-2025
- Health
- CNN
Thinning hair? Try these 9 rosemary oils for hair growth, recommended by dermatologists
Rosemary oil for hair growth quick picks Editor-favorite scalp and hair oil: JVN Complete Pre-Wash Scalp Oil Quick pre-shower treatment: Kiehl's Magic Elixir Scalp and Hair Oil Treatment Affordable and clean ingredient oil: Plant Therapy Rosemary & Castor Hair Oil Whether you're concerned about hair thinning or hair loss, or just wish your hair had a healthier look and feel, some quick online research might have led you down the path of rosemary oil treatments. Derived from the same plant that gives us fragrant herbs for cooking, rosemary oil is regarded as a powerful natural remedy due to its antioxidant-rich, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial profile that many people on the internet claim helps boost hair growth. But with so many ill-sourced beauty claims flying around online these days, we sought out dermatologists to better understand what benefits rosemary oil can bring to your scalp and whether it's worth adding into your hair care routine. Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil Both a viral product and a favorite of board-certified dermatologists Dr. Marisa Garshick and Dr. Dara Spearman, this Mielle blend of rosemary, castor and mint oils is also infused with biotin, which Spearman said helps hydrate hair, improve dry scalp symptoms and address split ends. Cliganic Organic Rosemary Essential Oil You can make your own hair oil blend at home by diluting a few drops of a rosemary essential oil, like this Cliganic one, into a more neutral carrier oil, like jojoba or argan. Dr. Michele Green, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist in New York City, said that pure rosemary essential oil is very potent, so it's important to dilute it by adding two to three drops into two tablespoons of a carrier oil before applying it to your hair and scalp. Nature Spell Natural Rosemary Oil This natural hair oil that CNN Underscored beauty and fashion editor Sophie Shaw recommends has a simple, five-ingredient formula. The rosemary oil is the star of the show, and it comes pre-diluted in sweet almond and sunflower oils. She likes to use it as a pre-shampoo treatment on her scalp, massaging the oil in at least 30 minutes before showering. Kiehl's Magic Elixir Scalp and Hair Oil Treatment With a blend of avocado and rosemary oil, this Kiehl's treatment only needs to be left on for 10 minutes to fully work its magic. Designed to help increase your hair's moisture and shine, this treatment is safe for all hair types, even for those with fine hair who might worry about oils leaving behind a greasy look or feel. Weleda Condition & Shine Hair Oil You can use this deep conditioning oil on wet or dry hair to improve shine, restore moisture and soften split ends. According to board-certified dermatologist and founder of SmarterSkin Dermatology Dr. Sejal Shah, the combination of rosemary oil with clover and burdock extracts in this formula helps to condition the hair and scalp while also encouraging growth. The Nue Co. Supa Thick Scalp Serum Spearman likes this thickening scalp serum from The Nue Co., which features ingredients like rosemary leaf and peppermint oil to stimulate circulation, as well as clary sage oil to strengthen the hair shaft. Briogeo Scalp Revival Rosemary Pre-Wash Scalp and Hair Oil Suitable to use pre-wash or as an overnight treatment, this Briogeo blend is made with rosemary oil to help scalp circulation, as well as castor oil for replenishing moisture. Safe for use on all hair types and textures, this oil is also designed to be 'tingle-free,' so even those with ultra-sensitive scalps can benefit from the gentle formula. JVN Complete Pre-Wash Scalp Oil We tested a whole bunch of products from 'Queer Eye' star Jonathan Van Ness' hair care line when it launched in 2022, and this scalp oil was among our editors' favorites. CNN Underscored newsletter editor Lindsey Smith said this oil — which is made with rosemary extract — was a game changer for soothing her itchy and dry scalp, while other editors noted that it made their hair more manageable to style daily. Plant Therapy Rosemary & Castor Hair Oil Focused on making products with clean and simple formulas, Plant Therapy created this oil blend with only three ingredients: rosemary, castor and almond oil. Gentle enough to leave on your scalp overnight, this blend can also be used to style dry hair and add extra shine to your ends. 'Rosemary oil can help condition and strengthen the hair and also works to reduce damage and breakage, making the hair appear stronger,' said Garshick. 'Additionally, some studies have shown that rosemary oil can help to boost hair growth; it is thought to help improve circulation in the scalp, which, by increasing blood flow, may help stimulate hair growth.' Hair oils, in general, can help restore moisture to dry or damaged hair, providing vitamins and nutrients that aid in limiting shedding and breakage. These oils, however, do not directly create hair growth. Double board-certified dermatologist at Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery Dr. Brendan Camp said that hair oils help create good scalp conditions, which can improve the overall health of the scalp skin and hair follicles. Green said the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in rosemary oil help protect hair from oxidative stress and environmental aggressors like UV radiation and pollution, thus aiding in preventing hair loss. Green also said that by boosting circulation and helping increase blood flow to the scalp, rosemary oil can allow more oxygen and nutrients necessary for hair growth to be delivered to the hair follicles. This increased blood flow — as well as the antioxidant-rich, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties — is potentially the reason rosemary oil can help with hair regrowth. These mechanisms are similar to the ones by which minoxidil, the main ingredient in Rogaine, also works, Shah said. You should take a slight pause of caution before slicking anything to your scalp. Spearman said allergic reactions and scalp irritation are the most common risks when using rosemary oil. She added that the safety of rosemary oil use during pregnancy has not been well-established, so you may want to consult with a medical professional before adding something new into your routine if you're expecting. While you can opt for prescription medications to help treat hair loss, some people prefer the affordability and availability of natural alternatives like rosemary oil, which are also made without synthetic chemicals. If you're experiencing hair loss that does not respond to over-the-counter treatments or is negatively impacting your quality of life, Spearman recommends you consult a board-certified dermatologist for help. There's still limited evidence to support the efficacy of rosemary oil for hair loss and regrowth, but there have been multiple studies that demonstrate its potential. 'One study found that rosemary oil stimulated hair growth in mice who had hair loss due to testosterone treatment, and another found that rosemary oil was as effective as minoxidil 2% for regrowing hair in men with male pattern hair loss,' Shah said, but noted that we need more data before we can make any definitive conclusions about rosemary oil's effectiveness. Depending on the formulation, you can leave rosemary oil on your scalp for anywhere from a few hours to overnight, but Green said you should follow the application instructions for the product you're using. '[Rosemary oil] can also be mixed into your shampoo or hair creams as a part of your hair care routine, but when using rosemary on its own, it's important to dilute it with a carrier [oil] such as jojoba, coconut or argan oil before application,' Green said. If you want to save your fingers from getting greasy, a scalp massager can help both to distribute hair oil on dry hair and ensure you get a nice, deep clean when you want to shampoo oils away in the shower. As with other hair treatments, it can take several months before you see any noticeable improvements from using rosemary oil, but staying consistent is key for getting results. If you have sensitive skin, Garshick said you should patch test some rosemary oil on a small area of your skin to check for any reactions before applying it all over your scalp. You can also utilize rosemary oil in other parts of your grooming routine. Spearman said rosemary oil is commonly used for beard hair growth, though added that as with hair on the head, it should still be diluted with a carrier oil before use. Rosemary oil's effectiveness in helping with the growth of eyebrow hairs or other body hairs has not been as well-documented, so if you're looking to use it for things other than your scalp or beard, Spearman said the efficacy may vary. The following FAQs have been answered by board-certified dermatologists Dr. Dara Spearman and Dr. Brendan Camp. Can rosemary oil be left on hair overnight? Can rosemary oil be left on hair overnight? Though Camp recommends massaging a diluted mix into your scalp and only letting it sit for 30 minutes before washing out, Spearman said that rosemary oil is safe to keep on overnight if it's diluted with a carrier oil. To apply, part your hair and use either your fingers or an applicator to gently spread and massage the diluted oil over your scalp. Both Camp and Spearman said it's best to apply rosemary oil one to two times per week to see how your scalp responds and to allow the oil to work efficiently without causing excess buildup. How long does rosemary oil take to grow hair? How long does rosemary oil take to grow hair? While you might notice softer, more hydrated and flexible hair within the first one to two weeks of using rosemary oil products, it can take months before you see any sort of hair growth. Camp said that because most people's hair grows slowly — around 0.5 inches per month — you'll need to use rosemary oil regularly for at least three to four months before deciding whether or not it's an effective treatment for you. Spearman added that the amount of time it takes to see results varies from person to person, but generally, you'll see some progress after two to three months with consistent application and more significant results after about six months of regular use. Is castor oil or rosemary oil better for hair growth? Is castor oil or rosemary oil better for hair growth? Spearman said that rosemary oil currently has better data to back its claims for hair growth, while castor oil is thought to be better at improving strength and thickness in dry or brittle hair. Camp added that there is limited data overall to support the use of rosemary or castor oil for hair growth, so you could consider integrating both into your hair care routine to see which works best for you. For this article, we consulted the following dermatologists to gain their professional insights. Dr. Brendan Camp, double board-certified dermatologist at Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery Dr. Marisa Garshick, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City Dr. Michele Green, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist in New York City Dr. Sejal Shah, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of SmarterSkin Dermatology Dr. Dara Spearman, board-certified dermatologist and owner of Radiant Dermatology Associates in Fort Wayne, Indiana CNN Underscored has a team of writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when relevant to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this story, associate editor Jillian Tracy consulted five dermatologists to better explain how rosemary oil can benefit your hair and scalp.


Buzz Feed
12-04-2025
- Health
- Buzz Feed
Reviewers Are Obsessed With This $10 Product For Thinning Hair
The thick clumps of hair left behind in my brush can be a shocking sight and have often led me to wonder if I'm shedding more hair than I should be. Like most people concerned with hair thinning, excess breakage, and general hair health, I've familiarized myself with all the buzzy hair growth supplements and minoxidil-containing treatments on the market. Some of the former aren't entirely backed by science, and some are expensive or come with undesired side effects. Amazon To the tune of less than $10, however, I can try Mielle Organics rosemary mint scalp and hair strengthening oil, a product adored by reviewers for its purported ability to strengthen hair. Formulated by former nurse Monique Rodriguez, who spent time in online natural hair forums in an effort to find solutions for her own hair concerns, the oil first gained a devoted following within the Black community before going widely viral on TikTok via prominent white influencers like Alix Earle. The brand also earned the attention of personal care giant Procter & Gamble, which announced its acquisition of the company in January of 2023. Rodriguez, who remains CEO, told the New York Times that although she hopes the move enables faster innovation and more access to African American communities, anyone can use the product. Many users of the stuff, be it in the five-star-loaded review section of Amazon or in progress videos on TikTok, have claimed that their hair looks and feels healthier and thicker, including in areas such as the hairline that previously appeared sparse. Others have even said that the oil has done wonders for managing dandruff and scalp irritation. While these testimonies are all anecdotal, there is some other evidence to support the idea that some of the ingredients in the formula can achieve what reviewers say. Mielle's biotin-infused formula contains nutrient oils including jojoba, grape seed and evening primrose, all of which can address dryness and brittle-feeling hair. But experts say the real stars in this affordable concoction are rosemary and eucalyptus oil. Dr. Marisa Garshick, a board-certified dermatologist with MDCS Dermatology in New York City, said that rosemary oil not only conditions and strengthens hair, but also helps reduce damage and breakage, thereby contributing to a stronger hair appearance. 'Research has also indicated that rosemary oil can potentially accelerate hair growth by improving blood circulation in the scalp, which stimulates hair follicles,' Garshick added. Penny James, a certified trichologist with the Penny James Trichology Center in New York City, said more studies are needed to support whether rosemary oil can stimulate hair growth, but noted that it may reduce redness and itching on the scalp because it is an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. And due to its antifungal properties, James said eucalyptus can help suppress dandruff and other scalp conditions caused by fungi or bacteria. This is important to note because, according to some studies, the health and condition of the scalp can affect hair growth and retention. Garshick also pointed to another main ingredient in the Mielle formula, castor oil, which she said is believed to enhance scalp circulation, leading to healthier and stronger hair. 'While definitive evidence of castor oil's effectiveness in hair regrowth is lacking, many people have reported improvements,' Garshick said. 'Its potential benefits include strengthening hair, nourishing the scalp, and creating a conducive environment for hair regrowth.' According to the brand, there are a few ways you can use this oil: as a scalp treatment, as a daily leave-in product, or for split-end care. Many users section their hair and apply a generous amount of the oil around the scalp, massaging the product in and down their hair. After a few hours, you can wash it out and carry on with your normal hair routine. The Mielle oil may not be the end-all-be-all to all your hair concerns and insecurities, however. There's something to be said about all the happy reviewers who now swear by this treatment. If you want to hop on the bandwagon, it will only set you back about $10. Promising reviews: 'I haven't been able to find any products that truly improve my hair growth except this one. I've noticed such good results when I started using this oil! My hair is growing so much and my scalp is moisturized well. I use this the day before I shower, slick my hair back in a slick ponytail, and leave it for the day so it can soak in. Even my boyfriend likes this product!! Such good results, but definitely not for daily use!' — Amazon customer 'I'm 42 years old, and just had my second child. I started losing hair in gobs after I had my son. I went to the doctor. She did blood tests but found that all my levels were normal, so she recommended this oil as a natural alternative to Rogaine, and Nizoral shampoo. So I gave it a shot. Every night I put this on my scalp - and I mean put it in thick - don't skimp ). And I concentrate on the hairline and areas that normally go bald ( top of the head). I put my hair up in a silk bonnet (you could also use a silk pillow, but I didn't want to get the oil everywhere so I chose the bonnet). Then in the morning I wash it out with the Nizoral shampoo and my regular conditioner. In the first week, I noticed I was losing less hair than I had been. After a month, I have started noticing baby hairs growing along my hairline. I'm going to keep using it. But I was amazed to see growth after only a month. My hair normal grows extremely slow, so I was very happy. My doctor said it was the combination of this and the Nizoral that seem to give optimal results. It's a pain, because my hair looks greasy in the mornings, and I have to wash the oil out every day. But…. My hair is growing back! 1000% worth it.' — Christina Conner 'All I can say is WOW! This stuff works great, I saw a huge change in my hair within a few weeks. I had new growth, and my ends were getting stronger. My hair breaks easily and this product was helping that so much. I have gotten at a point with my hair that no matter if I use the oils for the ends or hair masks my hair still breaks so much, but sense using this I have seen so much change! I even had new growth in areas I haven't been able to grow in forever! I was only using this twice a week at first and putting it on my ends as well. I would let it sit for about an hour before showering.' — Familia
Yahoo
23-03-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Reviewers Are Obsessed With This Product For Thinning Hair And It's 20% Off If You Hurry
The thick clumps of hair left behind in my brush can be a shocking sight and have often led me to wonder if I'm shedding more hair than I should be. Like most people concerned with hair thinning, excess breakage and general hair health, I've familiarized myself with all the buzzy hair growth supplements and minoxidil-containing treatments on the market. Some of the former aren't entirely backed by science, and some are expensive or come with undesired side effects. To the tune of less than $8, however, I can try Mielle Organics rosemary mint scalp and hair strengthening oil, a product adored by reviewers for its purported ability to strengthen hair. Usually $9.99, this stuff is now just $7.98, or 20% off, on Amazon. That's practically a steal. Formulated by former nurse Monique Rodriguez, who spent time in online natural hair forums in an effort to find solutions for her own hair concerns, the oil first gained a devoted following within the Black community before going widely viral on TikTok via prominent white influencers like Alix Earle. The brand also earned the attention of personal care giant Procter & Gamble, which announced its acquisition of the company in January of 2023. Rodriguez, who remains CEO, told the New York Times that although she hopes the move enables faster innovation and more access to African American communities, anyone can use the product. While these testimonies are all anecdotal, there is some other evidence to support the idea that some of the ingredients in the formula can achieve what reviewers say. Mielle's biotin-infused formula contains nutrient oils including jojoba, grape seed and evening primrose, all of which can address dryness and brittle-feeling hair. But experts say the real stars in this affordable concoction are rosemary and eucalyptus oil. Dr. Marisa Garshick, a board-certified dermatologist with MDCS Dermatology in New York City, said that rosemary oil not only conditions and strengthens hair, but also helps reduce damage and breakage, thereby contributing to a stronger hair appearance. 'Research has also indicated that rosemary oil can potentially accelerate hair growth by improving blood circulation in the scalp, which stimulates hair follicles,' Garshick added. Penny James, a certified trichologist with the Penny James Trichology Center in New York City, said more studies are needed to support whether rosemary oil can stimulate hair growth, but noted that it may reduce redness and itching on the scalp because it is an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. And due to its antifungal properties, James said eucalyptus can help suppress dandruff and other scalp conditions caused by fungi or bacteria. This is important to note because, according to some studies, the health and condition of the scalp can affect hair growth and retention. Garshick also pointed to another main ingredient in the Mielle formula, castor oil, which she said is believed to enhance scalp circulation, leading to healthier and stronger hair. 'While definitive evidence of castor oil's effectiveness in hair regrowth is lacking, many people have reported improvements,' Garshick said. 'Its potential benefits include strengthening hair, nourishing the scalp, and creating a conducive environment for hair regrowth.' According to the brand, there are a few ways you can use this oil: as a scalp treatment, as a daily leave-in product or for split end care. Many users section their hair and apply a generous amount of the oil around the scalp, massaging the product in and down their hair. After a few hours, you can wash it out and carry on with your normal hair routine. 'I haven't been able to find any products that truly improve my hair growth except this one. I've noticed such good results when I started using this oil! My hair is growing so much and my scalp is moisturized well. I use this the day before I shower, slick my hair back in a slick ponytail, and leave it for the day so it can soak in. Even my boyfriend likes this product!! Such good results, but definitely not for daily use!' — Amazon customer 'I'm 42 years old, and just had my second child. I started losing hair in gobs after I had my son. I went to the doctor. She did blood tests but found that all my levels were normal, so she recommended this oil as a natural alternative to Rogaine, and Nizoral shampoo. So I gave it a shot. Every night I put this on my scalp - and I mean put it in thick - don't skimp ). And I concentrate on the hairline and areas that normally go bald ( top of the head). I put my hair up in a silk bonnet (you could also use a silk pillow, but I didn't want to get the oil everywhere so I chose the bonnet). Then in the morning I wash it out with the Nizoral shampoo and my regular conditioner. In the first week, I noticed I was losing less hair than I had been. After a month, I have started noticing baby hairs growing along my hairline. I'm going to keep using it. But I was amazed to see growth after only a month. My hair normal grows extremely slow, so I was very happy. My doctor said it was the combination of this and the Nizoral that seem to give optimal results. It's a pain, because my hair looks greasy in the mornings, and I have to wash the oil out every day. But…. My hair is growing back! 1000% worth it.' — Christina Conner 'All I can say is WOW! This stuff works great, I saw a huge change in my hair within a few weeks. I had new growth, and my ends were getting stronger. My hair breaks easily and this product was helping that so much. I have gotten at a point with my hair that no matter if I use the oils for the ends or hair masks my hair still breaks so much, but sense using this I have seen so much change! I even had new growth in areas I haven't been able to grow in forever! I was only using this twice a week at first and putting it on my ends as well. I would let it sit for about an hour before showering.' — Familia The Real Deal: We use deal trackers and commerce experience to sift through 'fake' hike-and-drop deals and other deceptive sales tactics. Products will usually be rated at least 4 stars with a minimum 15% discount. (And when there's an exception, we'll tell you why.) Reviewers With Type 4 Hair Love These 19 Hair Care Products Amazon's Spring Sale Hasn't Even Started And These 13 Pet Products Are Already Marked Down Nordstrom's Spring Sale Is Here With Prices Dropped On So Many Luxurious Must-Haves
Yahoo
22-03-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
This $8 hair-strengthening oil has 80,000+ five-star fans: 'It actually works'
Sick of trying a million and one hair products to find one that does the trick? Social media has made it easier than ever to crowd-source opinions on popular products to get a sense of how they work before committing to a purchase. Now you can click "add to cart" with confidence. One commodity TikTok users can't get enough of? Mielle Organics Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil, which features rosemary and mint — two ingredients that may be effective for promoting hair growth, according to Heathline. Right now, you can get this one for just $8. According to a 2015 study published by the National Library of Medicine, rosemary oil was found to be as effective at promoting hair growth as some over-the-counter treatments and medicines. The study investigated how effective rosemary oil was in the treatment of alopecia compared with minoxidil 2%. After six months, "both groups experienced a significant increase in hair count," researchers said. Rosemary and mint are known to help increase blood circulation, which can allow more oxygen to get to your scalp and stimulate hair follicles. Mielle's mega-popular elixir has both ingredients, and you can snag the for just $8 on Amazon. Apply the oil to your scalp two to three times a week, gently massaging it into follicles. It should not only help boost shine but leave your strands smelling fresh. This woman-owned brand also makes other products including shampoo, conditioner and hair masks to help ensure every day is a good hair day. Amazon shoppers are big fans — more than 100,000 bottles have been purchased in the last month. "This product is awesome and actually works," raved one of the 80,000-plus five-star reviewers. "I just bought a bottle for my friend, since she also suffers from thin hair and hair loss. I highly recommend this product for all hair types. I have very thin hair, and this product is just what I needed, plus you don't pay the expensive dollars like other hair-loss products. Highly recommended." Another shopper said, "Even though it's a small bottle, a little goes a long way." The same shopper also shared a special technique that they say leaves their hair especially soft and shiny. "I usually pour my shampoo amount on my hand then add a few drops of the rosemary with it, and it smells so good while in the shower. Leave it in for about three to four minutes, then I rinse it off." A third reviewer said they noticed a difference in their scalp health after using this product. "After looking at photos of my hair before I started using the oil, I can say it has made a huge difference. My hair is so shiny and fuller than it has been in years. Not to mention the one bottle has lasted me the full three months with consistent usage." "This product works very well for hair loss," another buyer said. "I used it on my mother — she now has hair where she didn't in the front." Another pleased reviewer, who said, "This stuff works," shared a tip: "It has a strong smell and is definitely greasy, so I don't use it without washing it out before going out." If you have Amazon Prime, you'll get free shipping, of course. Not yet a member? No problem. You can sign up for your free 30-day trial here. (And by the way, those without Prime still get free shipping on orders of $35 or more.) The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.