Curly, wavy, straight, or silky smooth, whatever the hair-type is, hair fall is inevitably the prime concern either as an ongoing problem or preventing hair fall in future. The wish for strong and voluminous tresses makes all of us try various remedies including home remedies, medical, and cosmetic/esthetic treatments. While we generally resort to medical, and cosmetic/esthetic treatments when we feel the problem is severe, we all are in constant look out for home remedies as routine preventive measures. In recent times onion oil/onion seed extract has emerged as the hot favorite remedy for controlling hair fall and induce regrowth. 

In this health article we discuss how onion extract helps your hair and scalp problems and what the studies and experts have got to say about using onion extract for hair care.

What are the expected benefits of onion oil/onion seed extract for hair and scalp?

  • Onion extract is believed to provide shine and luster to the hair and prevent:
  • Hair fall (both alopecia and pattern hair fall)
  • Itchy and dry scalp
  • Hair thinning
  • Premature graying
  • Brittle and dry hair
  • Scalp infections

How does the onion extract help solve the hair and scalp problems?

  • Onion extract is rich in dietary fiber and sulfur. The sulfur content in the onion extract is rich in amino acids that help in production of proteins such as keratin and collagen which are essential for healthy hair growth.
  • Onion extract has potent antibacterial and antimicrobial properties that may help prevent scalp infections.
  • Onion extract is a rich source of flavonoids (antioxidants) which help prevent the formation of free radicals. Free radicals are known to cause hair follicle cellular damage and contribute to hair problems such as hair thinning, hair fall and premature graying. Thus by preventing the formation of free radicals onion extract may help prevent these hair problems
  • Onion extract is also known to boost blood circulation to the hair follicles and thereby encourage hair regrowth.

Is onion extract for hair care a safe remedy?

Application of onion extract for hair care is generally safe and does not cause any significant adverse effects. However, people allergic to onion, or people with sensitive skin should avoid using onion extract. Moreover, over use of onion extract may prove caustic to the skin and scalp and cause irritation, itching, and redness.

Is onion extract for hair and scalp problems scientifically proven?

Studies have proven that onion extract has shown significant benefits on the hair and scalp. However, there are very few studies available on the same and the results were based on a very small sample, hence, it wouldn’t be wrong to say the benefits of onion extract on hair problems is still inconclusive.

A word of caution: Although onion extract has several benefits on hair and scalp, it is always advisable to seek professional advice before starting the application. 

Disclaimer: The content (video/text) presented on this page should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. Please "DO NOT SELF-MEDICATE" and seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns. Practo will not be responsible for any act or omission arising from the interpretation of the content present on this page.