In the social media era, Instagram has become a centre for health and beauty trends. From miracle skin care products to natural hair growth remedies, brands and influencers frequently promote the latest cures with glossy before-and-after images. One of these trends that has swept Instagram is the use of onion oil for preventing hair fall. But does this stinky potion actually work, or is it simply another overblown fad? Let's explore the science of onion oil and its promises.
Why Is Onion Oil So Popular?
Onion oil is touted for its high sulfur content, which is said to fortify hair, enhance blood flow to the scalp, and slow hair loss. People believe that it can:
- Stimulate hair growth by feeding follicles
- Decrease scalp infections because of its antibacterial activity
- Strengthen hair shafts, reducing breakage
- Enhance hair texture and lustre
With such lofty claims, it's no surprise that onion oil has created a loyal following. But does science validate the assertions?
Science Behind Onion Oil Reducing Hair Fall
In an exclusive interaction with the editorial team of Onlymyhealth, Dr Sanjeev Gulati, Department of Dermatology, Sharda Hospital - Noida, explained that although onion oil has long been utilised in ancient Ayurvedic and herbal treatments, contemporary research examining its effectiveness is sparse. Nevertheless, a few studies indicate possible benefits:
Sulfur for Hair Growth: Sulfur is an integral part of keratin, the protein that forms hair. The sulfur content in onion oil can facilitate stronger, healthier hair growth.
Antimicrobial Properties: Onions carry antimicrobial substances that can contribute to a healthy scalp, avoiding dandruff and infection that can lead to hair loss.
Enhanced Blood Circulation: Massaging onion oil into the scalp can improve blood circulation, allowing hair follicles to absorb the necessary nutrients.
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Possible Disadvantages of Onion Oil
Dr Gulati highlighted that even though it has benefits, onion oil is not for everyone. Some of the usual disadvantages are:
- Onions' strong smell can be unpleasant and hard to get rid of from hair.
- A few individuals might suffer from itching, irritation, or allergic reactions.
- Although there are plenty of anecdotal success stories, additional clinical trials are required to validate onion oil's efficacy.
How to Use Onion Oil for Hair Care
If you wish to use onion oil for hair loss, use the following steps for optimal results:
- Use cold-pressed, pure onion oil or blend fresh onion juice with a carrier oil such as coconut or castor oil.
- Do a patch test by putting a small quantity on your skin to test for allergic reactions.
- Massage the oil gently into your scalp and leave it on for a minimum of 30 minutes (or overnight for intense nourishment).
- Wash with a mild shampoo to clear the oil and its pungent smell.
- Apply onion oil two to three times weekly for optimal effects.
The Verdict
So, does Instagram lead or misdirect? According to Dr Gulati, in this instance, onion oil could be beneficial, but it's not a surefire miracle worker. As with any beauty fad, proceed with realistic expectations and a healthy dose of scepticism!
Bottomline
Onion oil shows promise as a natural remedy for hair fall, thanks to its sulfur content, antimicrobial properties, and potential to boost scalp circulation. However, while some users swear by it, scientific evidence remains limited. If you’re struggling with hair loss, it’s best to combine onion oil with a holistic hair care routine that includes a healthy diet, stress management, and consulting a dermatologist for personalised advice.