At ORY®, we believe you should know what’s in your products and why. This page lists the published research behind what we say about rosemary essential oil (Rosmarinus officinalis leaf oil). Each section starts with our claim, then tells you how well the research supports it, then lists the sources so you can read them yourself.
Please note: Some studies on this page tested rosemary for hair loss, which is a medical use. We share them for transparency. ORY® rosemary oil products are cosmetics and are not intended to grow hair or prevent hair loss.
How to read this page Supported — backed by peer-reviewed research or official safety reviews. Supported, with caveats — the research points this way, but mostly from laboratory or animal studies, or at different strengths than ORY® uses. Limited evidence — little or no published research yet. We say so openly. |
1. General Description and Role
Claim: Rosmarinus officinalis leaf oil is the steam-distilled essential oil of rosemary. In ORY® products, it is used diluted for its fresh herbal scent and to help the scalp and skin feel refreshed and clean. |
Verification: Supported. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel concluded that rosemary-derived ingredients, including rosemary leaf oil, are safe in cosmetics when formulated to be non-sensitizing.
Citations:
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2018). Safety assessment of Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 37(3 Suppl), 12S–50S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581818800020
- What it shows: CIR safety assessment of rosemary ingredients.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2018). Safety assessment of Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 37(3 Suppl), 12S–50S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581818800020
2. Composition and Production
Claim: Rosemary oil is steam-distilled from the leaves and flowering tops. Its main compounds are 1,8-cineole, camphor, and α-pinene, which vary by growing region (chemotype). It is different from rosemary extract and rosemary-infused oil. |
Verification: Supported. Its chemistry is well documented. Some of its compounds oxidize into stronger allergens over time.
Citations:
- Nieto, G., Ros, G., & Castillo, J. (2018). Antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis, L.): A review. Medicines, 5(3), 98. https://doi.org/10.3390/medicines5030098
- What it shows: Review of rosemary’s compounds.
- de Groot, A. C. (2020). Fragrances: Contact allergy and other adverse effects. Dermatitis, 31(1), 13–35. https://doi.org/10.1097/DER.0000000000000463
- What it shows: Review of fragrance allergens.
- Nieto, G., Ros, G., & Castillo, J. (2018). Antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis, L.): A review. Medicines, 5(3), 98. https://doi.org/10.3390/medicines5030098
3. Skin Type Suitability
Claim: Diluted rosemary oil suits oily and normal skin on the body. Sensitive skin and the face should use rosemary extract or infused oil instead. |
Verification: Supported, with caveats. CIR noted rosemary can cause sensitization, and essential oils can irritate at higher concentrations. ORY® keeps facial use at 0.5% or less.
Citations:
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2018). Safety assessment of Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 37(3 Suppl), 12S–50S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581818800020
- What it shows: Sensitization data.
- de Groot, A. C. (2020). Fragrances: Contact allergy and other adverse effects. Dermatitis, 31(1), 13–35. https://doi.org/10.1097/DER.0000000000000463
- What it shows: Fragrance allergy.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2018). Safety assessment of Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 37(3 Suppl), 12S–50S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581818800020
4. Hair and Scalp Suitability
Claim: In haircare, diluted rosemary oil helps the scalp feel refreshed and clean. |
Verification: Limited evidence. In a 6-month randomized trial in 100 people with androgenetic alopecia, rosemary oil and 2% minoxidil produced similar hair counts; a mouse study found rosemary leaf extract promoted hair regrowth. These are medical uses. Hair-growth and hair-loss claims, including comparisons with minoxidil, are drug claims, and ORY® does not make them.
Citations:
- Panahi, Y., Taghizadeh, M., Marzony, E. T., & Sahebkar, A. (2015). Rosemary oil vs minoxidil 2% for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia: A randomized comparative trial. SKINmed, 13(1), 15–21. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25842469/
- What it shows: Trial of rosemary oil in androgenetic alopecia (a medical use).
- Murata, K., et al. (2013). Promotion of hair growth by Rosmarinus officinalis leaf extract. Phytotherapy Research, 27(2), 212–217. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=Promotion%20of%20hair%20growth%20by%20Rosmarinus%20officinalis%20leaf%20extract
- What it shows: Mouse study.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. 21 CFR 310.527 — Drug products offered over-the-counter for external use as hair growers or for hair loss prevention. https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/21/310.527
- What it shows: FDA treats hair-growth and hair-loss products as drugs.
- Panahi, Y., Taghizadeh, M., Marzony, E. T., & Sahebkar, A. (2015). Rosemary oil vs minoxidil 2% for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia: A randomized comparative trial. SKINmed, 13(1), 15–21. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25842469/
5. Benefits
Claim: Rosemary oil gives products a fresh herbal scent and helps skin and scalp feel refreshed. |
Verification: Supported, with caveats. Antimicrobial and antioxidant activity is documented in lab studies. ORY® does not make antimicrobial, acne, pain-relief, or mood claims.
Citations:
- Nieto, G., Ros, G., & Castillo, J. (2018). Antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis, L.): A review. Medicines, 5(3), 98. https://doi.org/10.3390/medicines5030098
- What it shows: Review of lab evidence.
- Nieto, G., Ros, G., & Castillo, J. (2018). Antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis, L.): A review. Medicines, 5(3), 98. https://doi.org/10.3390/medicines5030098
6. Use Across ORY® Product Lines
Claim: Rosemary oil is used in ORY® Haircare, Skincare, and Handmade Soap, with limited use in Cosmetics. |
Verification: Supported, with caveats. CIR set no numeric limit, and the highest use it reported was 1.5%. ORY® scalp leave-on levels (1–2%) are at or slightly above that. FDA has not yet published its fragrance allergen labeling rule under MoCRA (as of September 2026); ORY® will follow it when issued.
| Product line | Typical level | How ORY® uses it |
| Skincare | 0.5% face; 1–2% body | Oil cleansers, body oils, and body washes. |
| Haircare | 1–2% leave-on; 0.5–1.5% rinse-off | Scalp massage oils, serums, shampoos, and conditioners. |
| Handmade Soap | 2–4% of oil weight | Rosemary-scented bars. |
| Cosmetics | 0.1–0.5% | Low-level fragrance in balms; not in lip or eye products. |
Citations:
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2018). Safety assessment of Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 37(3 Suppl), 12S–50S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581818800020
- What it shows: Reported uses.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Fragrance allergen labeling for cosmetics (MoCRA rulemaking, RIN 0910-AI90). As of September 2026, no proposed or final rule had been published. https://www.reginfo.gov/public/do/eAgendaViewRule?pubId=202404&RIN=0910-AI90
- What it shows: Status of fragrance allergen labeling rule.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Is It a Cosmetic, a Drug, or Both? (Or Is It Soap?) https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetics-laws-regulations/it-cosmetic-drug-or-both-or-it-soap
- What it shows: FDA explains how soap is regulated.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2018). Safety assessment of Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 37(3 Suppl), 12S–50S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581818800020
7. Pros
Claim: A classic herbal scent with a CIR safety conclusion. |
Verification: Supported. Widely used and well documented.
Citations:
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2018). Safety assessment of Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 37(3 Suppl), 12S–50S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581818800020
- What it shows: Safety conclusion.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2018). Safety assessment of Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 37(3 Suppl), 12S–50S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581818800020
8. Cons
Claim: Rosemary oil can irritate or sensitize, contains camphor, and oxidizes over time. |
Verification: Supported. We list these limits so you have the full picture:
- Allergy and irritation. Especially on the face or sensitive skin.
- Camphor. Aromatherapy safety guidance advises caution in pregnancy, epilepsy, and young children.
- Oxidation. Keep sealed, cool, and dark.
- Hair research. Medical-use studies cannot support cosmetic hair-growth claims.
Citations:
- de Groot, A. C. (2020). Fragrances: Contact allergy and other adverse effects. Dermatitis, 31(1), 13–35. https://doi.org/10.1097/DER.0000000000000463
- What it shows: Fragrance allergy.
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2018). Safety assessment of Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 37(3 Suppl), 12S–50S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581818800020
- What it shows: Safety data.
- de Groot, A. C. (2020). Fragrances: Contact allergy and other adverse effects. Dermatitis, 31(1), 13–35. https://doi.org/10.1097/DER.0000000000000463
9. Safety Notes
Claim: Always diluted; patch test before use; for external use only. |
Verification: Supported. Follow these precautions:
- Patch test any new product on a small area for 24–48 hours before full use.
- Do not apply undiluted essential oil to skin.
- If you are pregnant, nursing, have epilepsy, or are buying for a child, ask a healthcare provider before use.
- Keep away from the eyes. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
- Stop use if redness, burning, itching, or rash occurs, and talk to a healthcare provider.
Citations:
- de Groot, A. C. (2020). Fragrances: Contact allergy and other adverse effects. Dermatitis, 31(1), 13–35. https://doi.org/10.1097/DER.0000000000000463
- What it shows: Fragrance allergy.
- de Groot, A. C. (2020). Fragrances: Contact allergy and other adverse effects. Dermatitis, 31(1), 13–35. https://doi.org/10.1097/DER.0000000000000463
10. Product-line notes
- ORY® Skincare: For external use only. Not for deep or puncture wounds, animal bites, or serious burns.
- ORY® Haircare: Designed for scalp comfort and the look and feel of hair. Not intended to treat dandruff or scalp conditions, or to promote hair growth or prevent hair loss. If you notice sudden shedding or a persistent itchy, flaking scalp, see a dermatologist.
- ORY® Handmade Soap: Handmade soap is naturally alkaline, and each bar may vary slightly in color, scent, and texture. Not intended to treat eczema or any skin condition.
- ORY® Cosmetics: Lip products are not intended to treat or protect chapped or cracked lips. Do not share applicators, and replace any product that changes color, smell, or texture.
11. References
Peer-reviewed research
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. (2018). Safety assessment of Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 37(3 Suppl), 12S–50S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581818800020
- de Groot, A. C. (2020). Fragrances: Contact allergy and other adverse effects. Dermatitis, 31(1), 13–35. https://doi.org/10.1097/DER.0000000000000463
- Murata, K., et al. (2013). Promotion of hair growth by Rosmarinus officinalis leaf extract. Phytotherapy Research, 27(2), 212–217. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=Promotion%20of%20hair%20growth%20by%20Rosmarinus%20officinalis%20leaf%20extract
- Nieto, G., Ros, G., & Castillo, J. (2018). Antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis, L.): A review. Medicines, 5(3), 98. https://doi.org/10.3390/medicines5030098
- Panahi, Y., Taghizadeh, M., Marzony, E. T., & Sahebkar, A. (2015). Rosemary oil vs minoxidil 2% for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia: A randomized comparative trial. SKINmed, 13(1), 15–21. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25842469/
Government and regulatory sources
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. 21 CFR 310.527 — Drug products offered over-the-counter for external use as hair growers or for hair loss prevention. https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/21/310.527
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Fragrance allergen labeling for cosmetics (MoCRA rulemaking, RIN 0910-AI90). As of September 2026, no proposed or final rule had been published. https://www.reginfo.gov/public/do/eAgendaViewRule?pubId=202404&RIN=0910-AI90
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Is It a Cosmetic, a Drug, or Both? (Or Is It Soap?) https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetics-laws-regulations/it-cosmetic-drug-or-both-or-it-soap
