Can Onion Juice Stop Hair Loss?

You read that right, onion juice. In the ongoing world of hair care trends, one unexpected contender is making waves on social media. While this treatment is not new and has been used as a home remedy for decades, it has recently gained traction as a natural alternative to medications for hair loss. With up to 80% percent of Caucasian men experiencing androgenetic alopecia (common hair loss) by the age of 70, it’s understandable that the race for any aid to slow down hair loss and encourage hair regrowth is on.

But does onion juice actually work, and is it safe?

Where Does the Onion Juice Trend Come From?

While the idea of onion juice for hair isn’t new and has been used for years in traditional remedies in parts of Asia, this new surge has online viral beauty content to thank. Many influencers and beauty bloggers claim their hair has become thicker, shinier, and healthier thanks to regular onion juice treatments. Some sources also claim that onion juice could also prevent hair greying and even treat dandruff.

How Does Onion Juice Work for Hair Loss?

The theory is that onion juice works in multiple ways to help hair growth. Firstly, it’s naturally rich in sulphur, which is essential for healthy hair growth acting as the structural backbone of hair. And that applying added sulphur will help strengthen hair strands.

Additionally, onion juice is said to increase blood circulation to the scalp and reduce inflammation due to their antioxidants, nourishing the follicles and encouraging growth. A healthy scalp is vital for healthy hair growth, and blood flow is a key aspect of this.

Moreover, onions’ antifungal properties may offer a benefit when it comes to conditions such as dandruff which is often caused by a fungus in the hair, or a buildup of oil. Both of which may be aided by onion juice.

What Does Science Say?

There is some limited scientific support. One small study tested topical onion juice on participants with one form of hair loss (alopecia areata) and found promising results. Those who used onion juice twice daily saw ~87% hair regrowth compared to just 13% of the control groups using plain tap water on their hair.

This particular study was small however and only focussed on one form of hair loss. While results were promising, the study leaves much room for further research.

And, while onion juice may offer some support for hair health and existing hair growth, it lacks clear scientific evidence.

The Downsides of Onion Juice

While natural remedies can seem appealing, they’re not always the most practical, or safe solutions and often have downsides or side effects that may outweigh the intended (and yet not guaranteed) result.

Some people find due to onion juice’s slight acidic property that it can cause scalp irritation or even allergic reaction, leading to further hair loss due to over handling or scalp tenderness. Not only this, but as we’re all aware, onions are naturally pungent. Many people reporting that the use of onion juice can leave a lingering smell on the scalp that shampoo may not cover.

Unlike medical treatments, natural home remedies can be often inconsistent. Varying in strength and effectiveness, offering unreliable treatment.

If Onions Aren’t an Option

For those looking for reliable evidence-based treatment to help hair loss, onion juice probably isn’t the answer. Thankfully, at The Family Chemist, we offer clinically proven treatments available that are both effective and safe.

The Bottom Line

Onion juice may be enjoying its 15 minutes of fame on social media. But when it comes to hair loss, it isn’t the wonder treatment we’ve all been searching for. While onion juice extract may be full of nutrients and antioxidants, it is not an effective hair loss treatment.

If you’re experiencing thinning or baldness, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional and find a treatment that’s backed by science for consistent and reliable treatment.