We all love a DIY beauty session every now and then — and during the pandemic, we were all attempting trending hacks, a popular one being applying onion juice on your hair. There’s no denying that a lot of Indian-based DIY ingredients are rooted in age-old Ayurvedic treatments, which host a multitude of properties that are great for your body. In this quest, however, we conveniently forget that natural ingredients too can have adverse effects, especially if not used in the right manner. Onion juice, for that matter, is loaded with antioxidants, anti-inflammatories, and is rich in sulphur which in theory is great for your hair. Ironically, this high sulphur content can be quite irritating for your scalp too! Here’s what experts have to say about using this tear-jerker for your hair woes.
Dr Madhuri Agarwal, founder and MD, Yavana Aesthetics weighs in, “Onion has nutrients providing benefits of antioxidants and antimicrobial action on hair. There are anecdotal experiences of improvement in hair texture, hair loss, and dandruff while using onion juice,” she says.
According to Dr Kavita Rohilla, a senior consultant for Trica Hair Clinic at Jean Claude Biguine India, it’s the high content of sulphur present in onions that makes this veggie a hair care go-to. She says, “Sulphur is a key component of proteins like keratin, which as you know are the building blocks of hair. It is said to enhance skin cell regeneration and aids in new hair growth.” However, both doctors agree that none of the claims are scientifically backed, especially when it comes to stopping hair fall. Dr Rohila, however, states that there are a few studies that show improvement in cases of treating alopecia areata after using onion juice.
No Onion, No Cry
Before you go dicing, slicing, and squeezing away, it’s important to note that this remedy comes with a cautionary tale. Dr Agarwal says, “Onion acts like an irritant ingredient when applied to the scalp. It can temporarily improve the blood circulation of hair, like any other irritant agent, but can also cause excessive burning, itching or rashes after use and at times add to the hair loss. Other concerns such as hair loss, dandruff and hair thinning need to be investigated and diagnosed by a certified dermatologist.”
Dr Rohilla adds, “If not rinsed properly, it can lead to irritation and hyper sensitivity. Excess of onion juice absorbs natural moisture and oils from the scalp, which can lead to a dry scalp. Plus, since it has an unpleasant odour, people tend to shampoo more to remove it, resulting in an increase in dryness.”
Onion juice isn’t advisable for people who are prone to allergies, psoriasis or eczema, and using it excessively multiple times a week can sensitise the scalp and aggravate hair loss. A more holistic approach to take care of your hair and scalp would yield better results — this includes a well balanced diet, proper hydration and sleep, supplements and a regimented hair care routine based on your hair type. That is the ideal way to maintain hair and scalp health.
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