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We asked a dermatologist whether onion oil can legit boost hair growth

Onion oil seems to be the new favourite when it comes to controlling hair fall and regrowth of those tresses. However, we asked a dermatologist if it actually works.
oils to control hair fall
So, is it worth having our hair smell like onion? Image courtesy: Shutterstock
Grace Bains Published: 18 Aug 2020, 05:23 pm IST
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We all have different types of hair, but you can’t deny that most of us have one major problem when it comes to our tresses: how do we save our hair from falling out and boost hair growth? 

Be it an ongoing problem or an attempt to prevent future hair fall, we want to get our hands on pretty much any home remedy for hair growth, especially ones that promise to keep our mane strong and voluminous. That’s why it isn’t surprising that many people really don’t mind applying onion juice to the scalp to ensure their hair stays healthy.

While many might be grossed out by the idea, in recent years this remedy has really gained popularity. And today, the market is flooded with onion hair oils claiming they won’t just stop hair fall but also induce hair growth. The claims are pretty much two of our wishes when it comes to hair health but how true do they stand in the practical world?

We decided to ask Dr Manjul Agarwal, senior consultant, Dermatology, Fortis Hospital Shalimar Bagh if onions can prove to be helpful when it comes to maintaining the strength and growth of our hair.

According to her: “Since time immemorial, Ayurveda has been used to treat hair troubles. Onion is definitely one such remedy. Scientifically known as Allium cepa, onion can prove to be helpful when treating hair fall. However, one needs to keep in mind that it is a type of herbal medicine which means that you need a professional to advise you to use it along with specifying the proper concentration as well as method.”

onion oil for hair growth
Trust onion for healthy hair. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

So, how is it beneficial for the hair?
Dr. Manjul explains that onion juice or oil can benefit the hair in three ways:

Hair fall: Onion, when used medically, can be effective for those suffering from alopecia areata and pattern hair loss, which are both forms of severe hair loss. These conditions need a definite diagnosis from a doctor who will be able to guide you further about whether onion would make for a good remedy for you.

Nourishing hair follicles: A certain compound in onion is known to enhance blood flow in the scalp which, in turn, leads to nourished hair follicles. This will ensure that the hair that grows out will be healthy. Hence, onions can definitely ensure the health of your hair.

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Protection from damage: Dr. Manjul mentions that onions are extremely rich in antioxidants which are needed to fight off the damage caused by free radicals. Hence, it could protect your hair from damage caused by the sun and ageing.

However, she went on to warn about the devastating effect it can have if used without professional advice.

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Says Dr Manjul: “There are various people who apply onion to their hair sitting at home. However, it can end up severely irritating their scalp and aggravating their hair problems. In fact, there have been cases where using onion as a home remedy for hair has ended up causing permanent hair loss. Hence, it is important that you visit a professional before experimenting.”

So can you use onion oil at home?
Well, it seems like the best way to go about it is asking your doctor. Now we know that onion is an extremely powerful remedy and needs to be prescribed to you according to your needs.

So, ladies, onions can work but you need to make sure you’re applying it in a way that has been prescribed to you.

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About the Author

Grace is someone who likes writing enough to make a living out of it. When she isn’t writing, you will find her having chai and reading a book. ...Read More

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