In the natural hair care community, no home remedy has drawn so much attention as the onion juice. Promised by beauty creator, holistic practitioners, and even a few dermatologists, this household panacea is now crossing over into mainstream status as a possible cure for hair loss. But before you reach out for the blender, here's the lowdown on onion juice for hair loss, from science-supported benefits to potential side effects. Read ahead to find out.
Why Onion Juice?
Onions juice might trigger your ick because of its smell, however, onions are full of sulfur, antioxidants, and antibacterial compounds, all of which have the potential to play a role in a healthier scalp and stronger hair roots. Here's what makes onions great for hair health:
- Sulfur Content: Sulfur is needed to make keratin, the protein that makes up hair. It is also able to stimulate blood flow to the scalp.
- Antioxidants: Onions are a source of quercetin, a strong antioxidant that can help alleviate inflammation and free radical damage, both major contributors to hair loss.
- Antimicrobial Properties: Onion juice has been shown to fight dandruff and infections of the scalp, which can hinder hair growth.
Although there is still limited research, there are some small studies that indicate onion juice can be useful for hair regrowth. One such study in the Journal of Dermatology in 2002 showed that patients with alopecia areata who used onion juice twice a day for two months experienced significant regrowth over those using just tap water.
Also Read: 6 Benefits Of Using Aloe Vera Ice Cubes For Skin Glow
How to Use Onion Juice for Hair Regrowth
If you’re curious to try onion juice for yourself, here’s a simple step-by-step guide:
DIY Onion Juice Recipe:
- Peel and chop one to two medium-sized onions.
- Blend or grate them into a paste.
- Use a cheesecloth or fine strainer to extract the juice.
- Apply topically to the scalp with a cotton ball or massage in with your fingers.
- Leave it on for 30–60 minutes.
- Wash well with a gentle shampoo.
- Repeat two to three times a week for optimal results.
Tips For Best Results From Onion Juice For Hair
- Patch Test First: Test a small quantity on your inner arm prior to applying to your scalp to determine if there is any irritation or allergic reaction.
- Dilute If Needed: Combine with aloe vera, coconut oil, or essential oils (tea tree or lavender) to enhance fragrance and decrease sensitivity on the scalp.
- Be Patient: Natural treatments are slow-working—don't expect results for at least 6–8 weeks before assessing improvement.
- Synergise with Other Therapies: Onion juice can be used in addition to a more general hair regimen consisting of adequate nutrition, scalp massage, and medical therapy as necessary.
What the Experts Say
Though dermatologists do agree that onion juice could have some promise, they also warn against using it as a miracle solution.
Onion juice has chemicals that can enhance scalp circulation and also decrease inflammation. But hair loss is a multifaceted condition, and no one remedy is going to work for all people. It's best utilised in addition to a comprehensive strategy,” said our expert Dr Sanjeev Gulati, Department of Dermatology, Sharda Hospital - Noida.
Onion juice isn’t a magic bullet, but it might just be a natural, low-cost solution worth trying if you’re dealing with mild to moderate hair thinning. As with any treatment, patience, consistency, and a little experimentation go a long way.
Whether you’re team DIY or prefer a store-bought blend, onion might offer more than just flavour in your kitchen, it might help bring life back to your hair.
[Disclaimer: This article is for information purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always seek a healthcare professional's advice prior to initiating a new hair treatment program.]