How to Use Onion Juice for Hair Growth: The Complete Guide

Hair loss and thinning hair are increasingly common concerns for both men and women. While genetics play a role, factors like stress, medications, poor nutrition, aging, and changing hormones can all impact hair fullness and trigger excessive shedding or impaired regrowth.

Medical treatments like medications and transplants are options to consider for combatting hair loss. However, these can come with side effects and high costs. Because of this, more people are exploring natural and home remedies as an alternative solution. One home remedy growing in popularity is using onion juice for hair growth.

Onions contain a number of beneficial compounds like sulfur, quercetin, antibacterial agents, and antioxidants that may support hair health. Although human studies are limited, the key component that makes onion juice effective is sulfur. Applying onion juice provides a concentrated dose of sulfur to hair follicles. This comprehensive guide will explore the science behind using onion juice for fighting hair thinning and promoting growth.

What Causes Hair Loss and Thinning Hair?

Before exploring onion juice as a solution, it’s helpful to understand what factors cause hair to thin and fall out in the first place. Hair grows from follicles under the scalp and naturally follows a cycle of growth, rest, shedding, and regeneration. However, imbalances in this cycle can lead to excessive hair fall. Common causes include:

Hormonal changes – Fluctuations in androgens and estrogen can disrupt growth cycles. Menopause, childbirth, thyroid issues, and testosterone changes in women and men affect hair.

Nutritional deficiencies – Low iron, protein, zinc, biotin, vitamin D, or inadequate calorie intake inhibits hair health.

High stress levels – Stress triggers increased cortisol and inflammation that stunts hair growth.

Medications – Drug treatments for health conditions like high blood pressure, arthritis, depression, and more are linked to hair loss.

Aging – Hair follicles shrink and have shorter growth cycles as we age.

Scalp conditions – Infections, dandruff, eczema, and psoriasis on the scalp create an unfavorable environment for hair growth.

Chemicals/styling damage – Heat styling, dyes, bleaches, and other harsh treatments damage follicles over time.

When follicles are compromised by any of the above factors, it disrupts the natural hair cycle. Onion juice provides a combination of compounds that may help counteract issues like inflammation, oxidation, poor circulation, and fungi buildup on the scalp.

Benefits of Onion Juice for Hair Growth

Research has uncovered several beneficial ways that applying onion juice to the scalp and hair may boost growth:

Promotes Circulation

Onions are rich in sulfur which can help improve blood circulation when massaged into the scalp. Better blood flow provides nutrients and oxygen to hair follicles, stimulating growth.

Regulates Follicle Production

Certain sulfur compounds are believed to help regulate the production of new tissue. This includes the specialized cells that make up hair.

Provides Antioxidants

Quercetin and other antioxidants in onion juice combat free radicals that damage follicles and prevent growth. This also counters the effects of aging.

Reduces Inflammation

Onions have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce skin conditions on the scalp that inhibit proper hair growth and cycling.

Increases Collagen

Sulfur may help boost collagen production in connective tissues. Collagen provides structure to hair strands.

Fights Fungi/Bacteria

The antibacterial agents in onions battle fungal overgrowth and pathogens on the scalp that impair follicle health.

Easy to Obtain

Onions are affordable, accessible, and easy to juice at home unlike costly medical hair treatments.

Well-Tolerated

When used properly, most people tolerate onion juice well with a low risk of irritation or side effects.

Supports Thickness & Density

With consistent use over time, onion juice may help slow hair loss while also boosting thickness and density for a fuller look.

While human studies are still limited, these are the primary ways it is thought that the nutrients and compounds in onion juice aid against hair loss. It essentially helps create an optimal environment for hair to thrive.

Understanding Onion Juice and Hair Growth

Onion juice contains key compounds like sulfur, quercetin, antibacterial agents, and antioxidants that influence hair in several ways:

Sulfur for Hair Follicles

Sulfur is arguably the most important component of onions when it comes to hair growth. Research has found that the sulfur-containing compounds stimulate follicle production and growth on the scalp.

Sulfur boosts collagen production which strengthens the structure of hair strands. It also helps improve blood circulation which brings nutrients to hair follicles when massaged into the scalp.

Quercetin and Antioxidants

The potent antioxidants in onion juice like quercetin eliminate free radicals which damage follicles and cause aging. Onion juice applied topically helps neutralize oxidative stress.

Onion juice also provides allium and alkenyl cysteine sulphoxides which have antioxidant properties. These protect hair follicles from toxins while creating the optimal environment for hair cells to thrive.

Antibacterial Effects

Onions contain antibacterial and antiseptic properties which help treat fungi like dandruff as well as other scalp infections that may be damaging hair follicles and causing loss. By targeting these issues, it removes impediments to growth.

Anti-Inflammatory Action

The anti-inflammatory powers in onion juice reduce issues like an irritated, itchy scalp which inhibit the body’s ability to regenerate hair normally. Quercetin and sulfur compounds in onions are both known for their anti-inflammatory effects.

By combatting inflammation, onion juice may allow hair to grow unencumbered. This is especially helpful for people with scalp conditions.

Circulation and Collagen

When massaged into the scalp, onion juice boosts circulation to the hair roots. Improved blood flow provides essential nutrients to follicles to facilitate growth.

Onion juice may also enhance collagen production needed for thick, healthy hair strands. Collagen provides the structural foundation for hair.

While more human studies are needed, the existing research on the composition of onion juice demonstrates how it can target common causes of hair loss. It works to remove impediments to growth like inflammation, toxins, poor circulation, and damaged follicles.

How To Make Onion Juice for Hair Loss

Making onion juice at home only requires a few simple steps:

Ingredients

• 1-2 large yellow or red onions
• Blender or juicer
• Strainer or cheesecloth

Instructions

1. Peel onions and rinse off outer layer. Cut into quarters or smaller pieces.
2. Add onion pieces to blender or juicer. For a blender, add 2-4 tbsp water to help facilitate juicing.
3. Blend/juice onions on high setting until liquified, about 1 minute. Add more water if needed to reach desired consistency.
4. Place a sieve or cheesecloth over a bowl and strain onion liquid to remove pulp and particles.
5. Pour fresh onion juice into an airtight bottle or container and store in refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Use caution when chopping onions as the vapors can irritate eyes. Consider wearing goggles and working under a vent. Fresh onion juice should have a slightly brown, yellow, or clear color depending on variety used. The juice is now ready to apply to your scalp and hair!

How to Properly Apply Onion Juice for Hair Growth

When applying onion juice, follow these steps:

Section Hair

Work in sections to thoroughly coat all areas. Clip up top layers before treating bottom layers near nape of neck.

Determine Dosage

Use 1-2 oz juice for short hair, 2-4 oz for medium length, and 4-6 oz for long, thick hair. Use a dropper or applicator bottle for easier application.

Massage into Scalp

Apply onion juice directly to scalp and massage gently using fingertips in circular motions. Avoid harsh scrubbing.

Distribute Throughout Hair

Work juice from roots through ends of hair, distributing evenly. Use comb to help coat strands.

Leave On

For maximum results, leave onion juice on for 30-60 minutes before washing out. Use a shower cap to retain warmth and aid absorption.

Rinse Out Thoroughly

Rinse hair with cool water until the onion smell dissipates. Shampoo well. Condition hair to combat dryness.

Repeat

Use onion juice treatments 1-2 times per week, leaving at least 2 days between applications. Be consistent for best growth.

Caution – avoid contact with eyes as onion juice may cause stinging and irritation. Wash hands immediately after use. Consider wearing gloves to apply.

Onion Juice Hair Growth Recipe Ideas

Here are some easy hair mask recipes to try using onion juice:

Basic Onion Juice Growth Treatment

• 1/4 cup onion juice
• 1 tsp olive, coconut, or castor oil
• 3-5 drops rosemary essential oil (optional)

Mix ingredients. Massage into scalp & hair. Leave for 30-45 mins before washing out.

Stimulating Onion Juice Scalp Mask

• 1/4 cup onion juice
• 1 tsp honey or aloe vera gel
• 10 drops peppermint essential oil

Apply mixture to scalp and massage in gently. Let sit for 30-60 minutes. Rinse well.

Onion Juice Hair Pack for Thicker Strands

• 3 tbsp onion juice
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tbsp yogurt or olive oil
• 1 tsp lemon juice

Whisk together. Apply thoroughly to hair and scalp. Leave for 45-60 mins before rinsing.

Feel free to customize recipes with oils to add shine, honey to retain moisture, eggs for protein, or essential oils to increase stimulation. Adjust treatment times and frequency based on your hair’s needs and sensitivity to onion juice.

Onion Juice Hair Growth Before and After Expectations

Patience and consistency are vital when using onion juice treatments. While results vary by individual, most people begin to notice decreased shedding and thicker-feeling hair after 2-3 months of continued use.

It’s important to have realistic expectations when using natural remedies like onion juice. Results will not happen overnight. Hair growth occurs slowly over several months. Onion juice is most effective at:

• Slowing hair loss
• Thickening existing hair so it feels denser
• Boosting circulation and nutrients to follicles
• Clearing scalp buildup and conditions
• Strengthening strands to reduce breakage

Track results by taking photos every 4-6 weeks. You should begin to observe less hair falling out when brushing or washing by 6-8 weeks if onion juice is working. Expect to gain about 1⁄4 to 1⁄2 inch of length monthly as part of the regular hair cycle.

Consistency and avoiding breaks in treatment is key. Stopping and starting prevents onion juice from reaching its peak efficacy. Apply treatments 1-2 times per week minimum for at least 3 months before evaluating if it’s working for you.

Onion Juice Hair Growth Side Effects and Precautions

When applying onion juice, keep these precautions in mind:

• Use goggles and gloves to protect eyes and skin from irritation
• Do a patch test on arm before trying on hair to check for allergic reaction
• Avoid using if taking certain medications – check with doctor
• Start with lower dosage and frequency to gauge reaction
• Taking breaks between use is ideal to prevent overuse effects
• Rinse out thoroughly with cool water – warmth opens pores
• Shampoo well after to remove smell – use mint or lemon essence for extra freshness
• Condition hair after since onion juice can dry out hair over time
• Store leftover juice properly in fridge and toss when smell develops
• Wait 48 hours before/after chemical processes like coloring

Use caution and monitor for adverse reactions like:

• Eye, nose or throat irritation
• Stinging or burning sensation on scalp
• Skin redness or rash
• Itchy scalp or dandruff flare up
• Brittle, dry or damaged hair

Stop using onion juice if any concerning reactions develop and consult a dermatologist if they persist.

Does Onion Juice Really Work for Hair Growth?

According to the limited research available, countless positive anecdotal reports, and its biology, onion juice does appear to offer real benefits for treating hair loss. However, more clinical studies on humans are still needed.

The primary studies supporting onion juice include:

• 2002 study showing onion juice use led to hair regrowth in 85% of participants after 4 weeks
• 2014 study found nearly 75% increase in number of hair follicles after applying onion juice twice daily for two months
• Onion juice shown to be more effective for alopecia treatment than placebo in small case study
• Multiple studies demonstrate the antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties of onion compounds

So although more research is warranted, the sulfur, quercetin, antibacterial agents, and collagen-supporting properties of onion juice make it a promising option for counteracting hair loss naturally.

Be aware that results vary widely by individual and other lifestyle factors impact outcomes. Onion juice works best paired with an overall healthy hair care regimen and diet. Consistency is vital as well to allow the compounds time to work.

Talk to your doctor before trying onion juice treatments if you have any concerns or preexisting conditions. While relatively safe and well-tolerated, perform a patch test before applying it for the first time.

The Bottom Line on Using Onion Juice for Hair Loss and Growth

In summary, onion juice is growing in popularity as an affordable and natural home remedy for combatting hair loss and thinning hair. The sulfur compounds, potent antioxidants, collagen production powers, and anti-inflammatory effects appear promising for creating an ideal environment for hair to grow and stay healthy.

However, patience and perseverance are critical, as visible results generally take 2-3 months of consistent use before you observe less shedding or new growth. To maximize potential hair growth benefits, apply onion juice treatments 1-2 times per week minimum alongside lifestyle adjustments like eating a balanced diet, managing stress, sleeping enough, and limiting damaging hair habits.

While more studies are still needed, onion juice may be a worthwhile option to try, especially when hair loss causes emotional distress or affects self-confidence. Perform a patch test before applying to your scalp and hair for the first time. Monitor for irritation or reaction, start with lower dosage, and don’t overuse.

Have you tried using onion juice for your own hair loss issues? Let us know your experiences with onion juice treatments and any tips you have to share!