I’m not one to get overly excited about shampoo, but Aveda’s Rosemary Mint Purifying Shampoo has me hooked.
If you’re hunting for a clarifying shampoo that doesn’t just clean but transforms your hair into something vibrant, shiny, and refreshed, this is the one to grab.
It’s like a spa day for your scalp, blending natural ingredients with an invigorating scent that wakes you up. Trust me, you’ll want this in your shower caddy—it’s a game-changer for anyone craving clean, lively hair without the harsh stuff.
My Experience With Aveda Rosemary Mint Shampoo
The first time I used Aveda’s Rosemary Mint Purifying Shampoo, I was staying at a fancy hotel, and it was one of those tiny travel-sized bottles tucked next to the sink. I wasn’t expecting much—just another shampoo, right? Wrong. The moment I lathered it up, my shower turned into an aromatherapy session.
The scent of rosemary, peppermint, and spearmint hit me like a cool breeze, instantly waking me up. It wasn’t just the smell, though; my scalp felt tingly, like it was getting a gentle massage from the mint. My hair, which is fine and tends to get oily by the end of the day, felt squeaky clean but not stripped dry. I was sold.
Back home, I ordered a full-sized bottle, and it’s been a staple ever since. I have medium-length, straight hair that’s prone to product buildup from styling sprays and dry shampoo. This shampoo cuts through that gunk like nobody’s business. After rinsing, my hair feels light, almost like it’s breathing again. The gel-like texture is different—more like a face wash than a typical shampoo—but it lathers beautifully, especially on the second wash.
I don’t need to use much, which is great because a little goes a long way. Over the past few months, I’ve noticed my hair looks shinier and feels healthier, with less oiliness at the roots. Even my husband, who usually doesn’t care about hair products, stole a few uses and admitted it made his scalp feel “alive.” That’s high praise from someone who typically grabs whatever’s cheapest at the drugstore.
What really sets this shampoo apart is how it balances cleansing with care. It’s sulfate-free, so it’s gentle on my scalp, which can get sensitive with harsher products. The cooling sensation from the peppermint lingers just long enough to feel refreshing without being overwhelming.
I’ve used it for about six months now, and the bottle’s still going strong, making the price feel like less of a splurge. It’s not just a shampoo; it’s an experience that makes me look forward to washing my hair.
Pros Of Aveda Rosemary Mint Shampoo
Squeaky Clean Without Stripping
This shampoo is a clarifying superstar. It tackles product buildup, excess oil, and impurities with ease, leaving your hair feeling reset. The micelles in the formula act like tiny magnets, pulling away dirt without disrupting your scalp’s natural balance. I love how my hair feels clean but not parched, which is a rare find in clarifying shampoos. It’s like giving your hair a fresh start every time you use it.
Invigorating Scent That Energizes
The aroma is a standout. The blend of organic rosemary, peppermint, and spearmint isn’t just pleasant—it’s uplifting. Every wash feels like a mini spa moment, and the scent lingers subtly on your hair, giving you that just-left-the-salon vibe. If you’re someone who loves a sensory boost in the morning, this shampoo delivers. I’ve had friends comment on how good my hair smells hours after washing, which is always a nice ego boost.
Gentle, Natural Ingredients
Aveda’s commitment to natural ingredients is a big win for me. This shampoo is 97% naturally derived, using plant-based components like white vinegar to purify and add shine. It’s sulfate-free, silicone-free, and vegan, so it’s kind to both your hair and the planet. My sensitive scalp hasn’t flared up once since I started using it, which is a huge relief compared to some drugstore brands that leave me itchy.
Perfect for Fine and Oily Hair
If your hair gets greasy fast or feels weighed down, this shampoo is your new best friend. It’s formulated for normal to oily hair and works wonders on fine to medium textures. My fine hair looks bouncier and feels lighter after every wash, and I can often stretch an extra day before needing to shampoo again. The glycerin in the formula keeps things soft without adding heaviness, which is a lifesaver for anyone battling flat hair.
Eco-Friendly Packaging
Aveda walks the talk when it comes to sustainability. The bottles are made from 100% post-consumer recycled plastic, and the brand uses renewable energy in manufacturing. Knowing I’m supporting a company that cares about the environment makes me feel good about my purchase. Plus, the larger liter bottles are a great value, saving you money and reducing plastic waste.
Also Read: My Thoughts On Malin + Goetz Shampoo
Cons of Aveda Rosemary Mint Shampoo
Pricey for Regular Use
Let’s be real: Aveda isn’t cheap. A 250ml bottle can set you back around $20, and the larger liter size, while more economical per ounce, is still a significant upfront cost. If you’re on a tight budget, this might feel like a luxury you can’t justify every month. I get it—sometimes I wince at the price too, but the quality and longevity of the bottle help soften the blow.
Scent Might Be Too Strong for Some
While I adore the minty, herbal scent, it can be intense for some people. If you’re sensitive to strong fragrances or prefer something more neutral, this might not be your cup of tea. A few reviews I’ve read mentioned the peppermint feeling almost toothpaste-like, which could be off-putting if you’re not into bold aromas.
Not Ideal for Dry or Damaged Hair
This shampoo is designed to clarify, which means it’s not the most hydrating option out there. If your hair is dry, damaged, or coarse, you might find it leaves your ends feeling a bit straw-like. I’ve noticed that on days when my hair is already parched from heat styling, I need to follow up with a heavier conditioner to balance things out. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s something to keep in mind if your hair craves moisture.
Can Be Hard to Rinse Completely
The gel-like consistency, while effective, can sometimes feel tricky to rinse out fully, especially if you have thick or long hair. I’ve had moments where I thought I rinsed thoroughly, only to find my hair feeling slightly tacky once dry. It’s not a huge issue, but it does require a bit of extra attention during rinsing to avoid any residue.
Tips for Using Aveda Rosemary Mint Shampoo
Use It Sparingly for Best Results
You don’t need to go overboard with this shampoo. A quarter-sized amount is plenty for most hair lengths, as it’s quite concentrated. I start by wetting my hair thoroughly, then massage the shampoo into my scalp, working it through to the ends. The first lather might be light, but a second wash creates a rich foam that really gets the job done. Using too much can make rinsing harder and waste product, so start small and add more only if needed.
Pair with a Hydrating Conditioner
Since this is a clarifying shampoo, it’s best paired with a conditioner that adds moisture, especially if your hair leans dry. I use Aveda’s Rosemary Mint Weightless Conditioner, which complements the shampoo perfectly by adding body without weighing my hair down. On days when my hair needs extra love, I’ll follow up with a deep conditioning mask to keep my ends soft and prevent any crunchiness.
Incorporate It into a Weekly Routine
For most people, using this shampoo once or twice a week is enough to keep buildup at bay. I wash my hair every other day, but I save Aveda Rosemary Mint for my “reset” days—usually after I’ve used a lot of styling products or dry shampoo. This keeps my scalp fresh without over-cleansing, which can strip natural oils. If your hair is super oily, you might use it more often, but listen to your hair’s needs.
Store Properly to Maintain Quality
To keep the shampoo’s aroma and efficacy intact, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. I keep mine in the shower, but I make sure the cap is tightly closed to prevent water from diluting it. If you buy the liter bottle, consider decanting it into a smaller, travel-sized bottle for daily use to avoid exposing the whole batch to humidity.
Rinse Thoroughly for Best Shine
To get that glossy, squeaky-clean finish, take your time rinsing. I spend an extra minute under the water to ensure no residue is left behind, especially at the roots. If you have hard water, you might notice a slight film—using a clarifying rinse like diluted apple cider vinegar once a month can help enhance the shampoo’s shine-boosting effects.
Comparison with Other Brands
Suave Rosemary and Mint Shampoo
Suave’s take on a rosemary and mint shampoo is often touted as a budget-friendly dupe for Aveda’s version, and I can see why some people draw the comparison. It’s got a similar herbal, minty vibe and aims to clarify oily hair. I tried it for a few weeks to see how it stacked up, and while it’s decent for the price—usually under $5 for a large bottle—it doesn’t quite match Aveda’s finesse. The scent is less nuanced, leaning heavily on mint, and it lacks the cooling, tingly sensation I love from Aveda. It also contains sulfates, which can be harsher on sensitive scalps like mine. Suave cleans well, but my hair felt a bit drier and less shiny compared to Aveda’s gentler, plant-based formula. If you’re looking to save money and don’t mind a less luxurious experience, Suave is a solid pick, but it’s not in the same league.
Paul Mitchell Shampoo Two
Paul Mitchell’s Shampoo Two is another clarifying option I’ve used, designed for oily hair and buildup removal. It’s closer to Aveda in price, retailing around $15 for a 300ml bottle, and it does a fantastic job of deep-cleaning. I found it left my hair feeling super clean, almost to a fault—it stripped a bit more moisture than Aveda, leaving my ends slightly rough. The scent is fresh but more citrusy than herbal, which is pleasant but doesn’t have the same energizing kick as Aveda’s rosemary and mint blend. Paul Mitchell also uses sulfates, which might not suit everyone. For me, Aveda wins for its gentler approach and the fact that it leaves my hair shinier and softer.
Kerastase Elixir Ultime Shampoo
Kerastase’s Elixir Ultime Shampoo is a high-end option I tested, and it’s more about nourishment than clarification, retailing at around $40 for 250ml. It’s infused with oils like marula and camellia, making it a dream for dry or damaged hair, but it’s not ideal for my oily scalp. When I used it, my hair felt silky but got greasy faster than with Aveda. The scent is luxurious and floral, but it lacks the invigorating zing of Aveda’s minty formula. If your hair needs hydration over clarification, Kerastase is a better bet, but for tackling buildup and keeping things light, Aveda remains my go-to.
Amika Velveteen Dream Shampoo
Amika’s Velveteen Dream Shampoo, priced around $25 for 275ml, is another sulfate-free option I’ve tried, aimed at smoothing and adding shine. It’s great for taming frizz, which Aveda doesn’t focus on, but it’s less effective at clarifying. My hair felt soft but not as “reset” as with Aveda, and the sweet, vanilla-like scent clashed with my preference for something fresher. Amika’s formula is lovely for daily use on normal hair, but if you’re battling oiliness or product buildup, Aveda’s clarifying power outshines it. The choice comes down to whether you prioritize smoothing or deep cleansing.
Read More: My Thoughts On Irestore Shampoo
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
You can use Aveda Rosemary Mint Shampoo daily if you have oily hair and don’t experience dryness. I find it gentle enough for frequent use since it’s sulfate-free, but if your hair is normal or leans dry, I’d stick to using it once or twice a week to avoid stripping natural oils. Pairing it with a hydrating conditioner helps balance things out for daily use.
There’s some buzz about rosemary oil promoting hair growth, and Aveda’s shampoo does contain rosemary leaf extract. I’ve noticed my hair feels thicker and healthier since using it, which aligns with studies suggesting rosemary oil can support hair growth, though it’s not as potent as something like minoxidil. The mint also stimulates the scalp, which might improve circulation. Don’t expect miracles, but it’s a nice bonus for overall scalp health.
Aveda’s Rosemary Mint Shampoo is safe for color-treated hair, as it’s sulfate-free and designed to be gentle. I don’t color my hair, but reviews from users with dyed hair confirm it doesn’t fade color significantly. That said, because it’s a clarifying shampoo, you might want to use it sparingly—once a week or so—if you have vibrant or delicate colors, just to be safe.
Aveda’s Rosemary Mint Purifying Shampoo is one of their top sellers, alongside the Shampure Nurturing Shampoo and Botanical Repair Strengthening Shampoo. Based on my experience and customer reviews, Rosemary Mint is a fan favorite for its clarifying power and invigorating scent. It’s hard to pin down the absolute best-seller, but this one consistently gets rave reviews for oily and fine hair types.
Final Thoughts On Aveda Rosemary Mint Shampoo
I can’t recommend Aveda’s Rosemary Mint Purifying Shampoo enough if you’re after a clarifying shampoo that feels luxurious and performs like a champ. It’s not perfect—the price stings, and it’s not for everyone’s hair type—but the clean, shiny results and that refreshing scent make it worth every penny. Add it to your routine, and your hair will thank you with bounce and brilliance.