Can applying onion juice on scalp stop hair loss? Experts bust myth

Applying onion juice has been trusted as an age-old remedy to promote hair growth in people. However, it may not work for everyone. Here's what experts say.

Applying onion juice on scalp for shiny and strong hair is a home remedy people have been following since time immemorial and many of them claim to have benefitted by this natural hair mask with its main ingredient easily available in kitchen. It is also known to curb hair fall and aid hair re-growth. It has been claimed that the anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of onions could be helpful in improving hair health. (Also read: Try these fenugreek and onion juice hair masks to stop hair fall in winters)

From the nutrition point of view, onion juice is rich in sulphur and that is a compound that is said to prevent breakage and thinning of hair. Sulphur is also said to aid regrowth of hair follicles. Onion juice high on antioxidants may also help keep premature greying of hair at bay.

Dr Jaishree Sharad, a renowned dermatologist, in her recent Instagram post, says that it's a myth and not supported sufficiently by a scientific study.

"Well, if that were true, there would be no bald people because everybody would be rubbing onion juice on the scalp and have abundant growth. There is absolutely no scientific evidence, no published data that onion juice can cause hair regrowth specially in male pattern or female pattern hair loss or regular hair fall," says Dr Sharad.

The dermatologist says that it in fact can do the opposite and even cause hair loss.

"In fact, it can cause irritation, rashes, burns and even hair loss. There is only one paper which talks about onion juice being applied on a circular patch or alopecia areata which is an auto immune disorder now whether it was a coincidence that there was hair regrowth, or the onion juice actually caused irritation on the scalp and hair regrowth no one knows," she says.

Dr. Rinky Kapoor, Consultant Dermatologist, Cosmetic Dermatologist & Dermato-Surgeon, The Esthetic Clinics, agrees that not everyone can benefit from the hack and some may face adverse effect.

"It is believed that using onion juice can on the scalp regrow hair in merely 2 weeks. But, it is better to consult the dermatologist first and then use it. Not everyone may benefit from this hack. It can do more harm than good. It may react differently for some when compared to others. Do not pay attention to any rumours or posts on social media which claim to regrow hair or help to quick fix other hair woes. But, onion can also cause burning and itching of the scalp inducing scalp irritation and hair loss. It may be a better idea to avoid using onion on the scalp," says Dr Kapoor.

"Consult with your dermatologist or trichologist if you have hair loss. Avoid using home remedies without consulting an expert," adds Dr Sharad.