Onion Oil and Hair Growth

 

Studies suggest that onion (Allium cepa) compounds can revitalize hair follicles and encourage regrowth. For example, a controlled trial found that 86.9% of alopecia areata patients saw hair regrow after 6 weeks of twice-daily onion juice applications – far more than a tap-water control. Onion is rich in sulfur (a key part of keratin, the hair’s protein) as well as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory flavonoids. These nutrients help strengthen hair cuticles and reduce breakage. One review of onion oil notes that it “stimulates blood circulation in the scalp, improving collagen production” and protects follicles from fungal/bacterial damage, which in turn can prevent thinning and early graying.

Many users report visibly stronger, healthier hair after using onion oil. For example, one review observed that it “helps to promote new hair and makes [hair] stronger and healthier”. Another noted “reduction in hair fall” and that hair felt “fuller and denser” after just a few uses. This aligns with the idea that onion’s sulfur and antioxidants nourish follicles and improve scalp health. In practice, the oil’s active compounds may awaken resting follicles and thicken hair over time, though consistent use (often weeks) is typically needed to see these effects.

Application and Usage Tips

To get the most benefit, apply onion oil directly to the scalp and hair roots and leave it on for a while. One guideline is to use onion hair oil 2–3 times per week, leaving it on for about 30–45 minutes before rinsing. Steps include:

Massage well. Section your hair and massage the oil into the scalp with fingertips or a comb so it reaches the follicles.

Let it sit. For a mild treatment, 30 minutes is usually enough. (Some people leave it on overnight for deeper conditioning, though this may increase odor or irritation.)

Rinse thoroughly. Use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo to wash out the oil and any lingering smell. Washing the oil out properly helps prevent buildup.

Regular routine is key. Many beauty experts advise patch-testing first to check for sensitivity. Over a few weeks of consistent use, users often note less hair fall and shinier hair.

Top Onion Oil Products

Several commercial hair oils incorporate onion extract along with nourishing carrier oils. Popular ready-made options include:

Little Extra Coco Onion Hair Oil: A blend of coconut oil and onion oil. It’s marketed as a 100% natural anti-fall oil – coconut for hydration and onion for growth stimulation.

WOW Skin Science Onion Black Seed Oil: Combines onion oil with black seed oil. The onion acts to strengthen and smooth hair cuticles, while black seed adds antioxidants. Users say it “restores hair’s natural shine” without greasiness.

Mamaearth Onion Hair Oil: Features onion oil plus almond oil and Redensyl (a plant-derived growth stimulant). The brand claims this mix enhances density and strength (with an advertised “2–3 times faster hair regrowth” formula).

Bajaj Coco Onion Hair Oil: A coconut-oil-based hair oil with 20% onion extract. It’s designed to “double” the speed of regrowth by nourishing hair and controlling fall. It’s lightweight (non-sticky) and positioned for daily use.

These products often come with favorable customer ratings (many 4–5 stars) on retail sites. Ingredients and formulations vary, but each leverages onion’s reputed benefits.

User Experiences

Customers frequently share personal results with onion oil products. For instance, one verified buyer wrote: *“It works very well on the scalp… helps to promote new hair and makes them stronger and healthier.”*. Others describe a quick impact on shedding: “I noticed the reduction of my hair fall in just one week… I loved it,” and *“hair fall has reduced and I can feel my fuller hairs.”*. These testimonials, while individual, echo the oil’s intended effects of firmer, thicker hair. Of course, results can vary. Reviewers often emphasize the need for regular use over several weeks to see noticeable growth and strength.

Precautions and Side Effects

Onion oil is generally safe for most people but use it carefully:

Allergy check: Do a patch test first. Anyone allergic to onions should avoid onion-based treatments. Even non-allergic users sometimes experience scalp itching or redness.

Skin irritation: The high sulfur content can dry or irritate sensitive skin. If your scalp becomes inflamed, stop using it. (A dermatologist warns that scratching an itchy scalp can actually increase hair breakage.)

Avoid eyes: Protect your eyes when applying; onion oil can sting if it drips.

Odor: Expect a strong onion smell. Some people dilute the oil with a carrier (like coconut or almond oil) or mix in a few drops of essential oil or lemon juice to mask odor.

Concentration: Straight onion extracts are potent. If irritation occurs, try mixing the onion oil 1:1 with a gentle base oil.

In summary, while side effects are usually mild (temporary itchiness or odor), caution is wise. Long-term or excessive use isn’t proven to cause serious harm, but monitor your scalp’s response. If problems arise or hair loss worsens, consult a doctor.

Sources: Onion’s hair benefits are backed by dermatological research and reviews, and the above points are supported by health sources and customer feedback.