Onion Juice for Hair: Potential Benefits, Uses & Side Effects

Using onion juice for hair is a trend that’s been catching on in the world of natural hair care. Limited studies suggest it may help combat hair fall, boost hair growth, and even help in dealing with scalp issues like dandruff [1]. It’s often used to manage hair fall, support scalp health, and promote hair strength.

Why Onion Juice May Benefit Hair Health

Onion juice has many beneficial properties that make it a potent ingredient for improving your hair health. Its high sulphur content and antimicrobial as well as antioxidant properties are believed to help hair growth [2]. Moreover, massaging your scalp with onion juice can stimulate blood circulation, delivering more nutrients to your hair follicles, which may help create a healthier scalp environment that supports hair strength.

How to Make Onion Juice at Home

The process of making onion juice at home is relatively straightforward and requires minimal time and effort. Here’s how you can do it:

Ingredients

• 2-3 large onions

Tools

• Blender or food processor
• Cheesecloth or fine strainer
• Clean bowl
• An airtight container or bottle for storage

Process

• Begin by peeling and chopping the onions into small pieces.
• Put the chopped onions in a blender or food processor and blend until you obtain a smooth paste.
• Pour the onion paste into a bowl lined with cheesecloth. Gather the edges of the cloth and squeeze to extract the juice into the bowl.
• You can also use a fine strainer instead of cheesecloth to separate the juice from the pulp. Simply press down on the pulp with a spoon to extract more juice.
• Transfer the onion juice into an airtight container or bottle for storage.
• With these easy steps, you have your homemade onion juice ready for application. Remember to always perform a patch test before applying it to your scalp, to ensure there’s no allergic reaction.

How to Apply Onion Juice for Best Results

To get maximum benefit for your hair, it is important to apply the onion juice correctly. Here is a simple, step-by-step guide on how to use onion juice on your hair:

• Apply the juice directly to your scalp using a cotton pad or your fingertips. Ensure that you cover all areas from the roots to the tips of your hair.
• Leave it on for at least 30 minutes, allowing the nutrients to penetrate your scalp and hair follicles.
• Finally, rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water and a mild shampoo.
• Consistency is key, and regular application of onion juice (once or twice a week) can help you see noticeable improvements over time.

5 Suggested Benefits of Onion Juice for Hair

Onion juice offers numerous potential benefits for hair health, thanks to its rich sulphur content and a host of nutrients. Let’s dive deeper into how it may support your mane.

1. May Promote Hair Growth

Hair fall is a common concern amongst many, and a small 2002 study suggested that topical application of onion juice could promote hair regrowth in cases of alopecia areata [1]. Sulphur in onion juice helps in collagen production, which is important for strong hair strands. These proteins help strengthen hair follicles and promote thicker, healthier hair over time.

2. May Help Prevent Premature Greying of Hair

Are you noticing your hair turning grey sooner than expected? That is called premature greying of hair. Onion juice contains antioxidants like quercetin and catalase [3] that protect your hair follicles from damage caused by free radicals. Oxidative stress is also an underlying cause of premature greying [4]. Antioxidants in onion juice may help reduce oxidative stress, a factor linked with early greying.

3. May Nourish and Moisturise Dry Hair

Dry, brittle hair can not only look unhealthy but can also lead to damage over time. Onion juice, with its rich nutrient profile, is thought to act as a natural conditioner that provides deep hydration to your hair, improving its texture and potentially preventing split ends. However, individual results can vary greatly.

4. May Help Combat Dandruff

The itching and flaking associated with dandruff can be embarrassing and uncomfortable. Fortunately, the suggested antimicrobial properties of onion juice [3] may help combat the bacteria and fungi that can be responsible for dandruff. By removing dead skin cells and decreasing scalp irritation, it may leave your scalp healthier and dandruff-free.

5. May Soothe Dry and Itchy Scalp

A dry and itchy scalp can be troublesome, but don’t worry – onion juice may be here to help! Its potential anti-inflammatory properties [3] can soothe the scalp, reducing irritation and discomfort. Regular application can also enhance overall scalp health, resulting in healthier hair growth.

So there you have it—the remarkable suggested benefits of onion juice for your hair. Incorporating it into your hair care routine could potentially support substantial improvements in hair health, thickness, and vitality. Start using onion juice topically today to potentially reap vibrant, healthy locks tomorrow!

Onion Juice for Hair: Safety & Side Effects

Onion juice is widely recognised for its potential benefits for hair health. But, as with any natural remedy, it is essential to consider the possible side effects associated with its use. While many people can enjoy the benefits of onion juice without any issues, some may experience adverse reactions. Let’s discuss the notable side effects of using onion juice and how to manage them.

• Scalp Irritation/Contact Dermatitis: The high acidity and concentration of sulphur compounds in raw onion juice can be irritating, potentially leading to redness, itching, or even a burning sensation, especially on sensitive skin or broken skin [1]. This is the most common adverse reaction.
• Hair Loss: Although onion juice is often used to tackle hair fall, some individuals may experience an increase in hair loss as a reaction to the juice, particularly those with sensitive skin or scalp conditions. This could be due to the strong nature of the juice causing temporary telogen effluvium if severe irritation occurs.
• Eye Irritation: The potent sulphur compounds inherent in onions can cause eye irritation if the juice comes into contact with your eyes. Therefore, it is advisable to exercise caution when applying it.
• Unpleasant Odour: Onion juice possesses a strong, pungent smell that can linger in your hair long after rinsing. This odour may be off-putting for some individuals and might necessitate additional washes to eliminate.
• Allergic Reactions: Although rare, some people may experience allergic reactions to onion juice, which can manifest as itching, swelling, or even severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing. Individuals with established onion allergies must avoid using onion juice.

Recommendation: Before using onion juice, it is highly recommended that you conduct a patch test (apply a small amount behind the ear or on the inner elbow and wait 24 hours) and consult with your doctor or a dermatologist. This is a small step that can help decrease risks and ensure the safe use of onion juice for your hair health.

Takeaway

Onion juice may be a powerful addition to your hair care routine, potentially helping to reduce hair fall, encourage growth, improve scalp health, and combat dryness. However, it’s essential to apply it correctly and be aware of possible side effects, such as irritation or allergic reactions. Start with a patch test, use it 1–2 times weekly, and pair it with gentle shampooing to manage odour. With consistent and cautious use, onion juice may support scalp health and hair strength as part of a broader hair care routine. Always prioritise consulting a healthcare professional for persistent hair loss or scalp concerns.

Expert Quote

“Natural remedies like onion juice contain compounds such as sulphur and antioxidants which can be surprisingly effective. While not a guaranteed cure, its properties help nourish the scalp and may create a healthier environment for hair to grow.”

-Dr Anubha Karol

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does it take for onion juice to potentially increase hair growth?

Applying onion juice to your hair consistently for six weeks showed positive results in a small study for alopecia areata treatment [1]. However, results will vary from person to person, depending on the type of hair and any associated hair issues.

Can I apply onion juice to hair that has been oiled?

Yes, you can apply onion juice to hair that has been oiled. Some users find that applying oil first may help dilute the strong nature of the juice and reduce potential irritation.

Can I apply onion juice overnight?

You can, but it’s not generally advisable. It may irritate the scalp due to its potent properties, especially if left on for more than a few hours. Extended exposure also increases the risk of the strong odor lingering.

Can I wash my hair only with water after applying onion juice?

It’s best to use a mild shampoo post-application. This will remove the strong smell of onion and clean your scalp effectively.

Is onion juice good for organic hair growth?

Yes, the sulphur in onion juice promotes collagen production, which is essential for healthy hair growth. It is considered a natural remedy, though scientific evidence is limited for general use.

What specific components of onion juice benefit hair health?

Onion juice contains high levels of sulphur, which aids in collagen production, and antioxidants like catalase, which may help reduce oxidative stress on the scalp [3].

Can onions help in treating dandruff?

Yes, onions have antibacterial and antifungal properties that may help in fighting the organisms associated with dandruff effectively [3].

References

[1] Sharquie, K. E., & Al‐Obaidi, H. K. (2002). Onion juice (Allium cepa L.), a new topical treatment for alopecia areata. The Journal of Dermatology, 29(6), 343–346. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1346-8138.2002.tb00277.x

[2]Gaurav, V., Bhoi, A. K., & Mehta, N. (2023). Home remedies in dermatology. Indian Dermatology Online Journal, 14(6), 864–870. https://doi.org/10.4103/idoj.idoj_166_23

[3]Marefati, N., Ghorani, V., Shakeri, F., Boskabady, M., Kianian, F., Rezaee, R., & Boskabady, M. H. (2021). A review of anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory effects of Allium cepa and its main constituents. Pharmaceutical Biology, 59(1), 285–300. https://doi.org/10.1080/13880209.2021.1874028

[4] Trueb, R., Henry, J., Davis, M., & Schwartz, J. (2018). Scalp condition impacts hair growth and retention via oxidative stress. International Journal of Trichology, 10(6), 262–270. https://doi.org/10.4103/ijt.ijt_57_18

[5] Shil, S., Gholap, R., & Yadav, V. (n.d.). FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF ONION HAIR NOURISHING SHAMPOO. Journal of Drug Delivery and Therapeutics, 10(3), 75-79. https://www.jddtonline.info/index.php/jddt/article/view/1810/1095