air fall, thinning edges, slow growth, and patchy scalp are problems millions of people face daily. While commercial hair products promise miracles, many rely on harsh chemicals that often worsen the issue over time. One natural remedy that keeps resurfacing in traditional beauty routines is onion hair oil—a simple, affordable, and surprisingly powerful solution.
This guide shows you how to make onion hair oil at home, how it works, how to use it correctly, and why it may help reduce hair fall while promoting faster, healthier growth.
Why Onion Hair Oil Works
Onions are not just a kitchen staple—they’re a nutrient powerhouse for the scalp.
Key Hair-Boosting Compounds in Onion
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Sulfur – Essential for keratin production, the protein that builds hair strands
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Quercetin – A potent antioxidant that reduces scalp inflammation
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Antimicrobial compounds – Help fight dandruff, fungal infections, and clogged follicles
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Vitamins B & C – Support blood circulation and collagen synthesis
When infused into oil, these compounds penetrate the scalp more gently than raw onion juice, making onion oil less irritating but more sustainable for long-term use.
Benefits of Onion Hair Oil
Using onion hair oil consistently may help:
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Reduce excessive hair fall and breakage
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Stimulate dormant hair follicles
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Improve scalp circulation
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Strengthen hair roots
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Add shine and thickness
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Support regrowth in thinning or patchy areas
Many people notice less shedding within 2–3 weeks and visible baby hairs after 4–6 weeks of consistent use.
How to Make Onion Hair Oil at Home (2 Easy Methods)
Method 1: Slow Infusion (Best for Sensitive Scalps)
You’ll need:
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1–2 medium red onions
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1 cup carrier oil (coconut, olive, castor, or almond oil)
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Pan + strainer
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Glass jar
Steps:
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Finely chop or blend the onions
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Heat oil on low flame
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Add onions and simmer gently for 10–15 minutes
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Turn off heat once oil darkens slightly
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Cool completely and strain
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Store in a glass bottle away from sunlight
✔ Mild smell
✔ Longer shelf life
✔ Less scalp irritation
Method 2: Cold Infusion (Maximum Nutrient Retention)
You’ll need:
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1 cup onion juice or finely chopped onion
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1 cup carrier oil
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Glass jar
Steps:
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Combine onion and oil in jar
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Seal tightly
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Store in a dark place for 7–10 days
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Shake daily
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Strain and store
✔ Stronger potency
✔ Slightly stronger smell
Best Oils to Combine with Onion
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Coconut oil – Deep nourishment, great for dry hair
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Castor oil – Boosts thickness and regrowth
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Olive oil – Softens and strengthens strands
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Almond oil – Adds shine and vitamin E
👉 For intense hair fall, use 50% onion oil + 50% castor oil.
How to Use Onion Hair Oil for Best Results
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Warm 1–2 tablespoons of oil slightly
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Massage into scalp for 5–10 minutes
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Leave on for at least 1 hour (or overnight)
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Wash with a mild shampoo
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Use 2–3 times per week
Consistency matters more than quantity.
How Long Until You See Results?
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Week 1–2: Reduced hair fall
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Week 3–4: Improved scalp health, less dandruff
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Week 5–8: New hair growth, stronger roots
Results vary depending on genetics, diet, and stress levels.
How to Reduce Onion Smell (Important!)
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Add a few drops of rosemary, lavender, or tea tree essential oil
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Rinse hair with lemon water or diluted apple cider vinegar
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Use a sulfate-free shampoo
The smell fades once hair is dry.
Who Should Avoid Onion Hair Oil?
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Extremely sensitive scalps
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Open wounds or scalp infections
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Allergy to onions
👉 Always do a patch test before full application.
Onion Hair Oil vs Onion Juice
| Feature | Onion Oil | Onion Juice |
|---|---|---|
| Smell | Mild | Strong |
| Irritation | Low | High |
| Shelf Life | Weeks | 24 hours |
| Ease of Use | Easy | Messy |
For long-term hair care, oil is the better option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can onion oil regrow bald spots?
It may help stimulate follicles in early-stage thinning but won’t revive completely dead follicles.
Can I use it daily?
2–3 times per week is ideal. Daily use may clog pores.
Is onion oil safe for colored hair?
Yes, but do a strand test first.
Final Thoughts
Onion hair oil is a time-tested natural remedy that supports hair growth, reduces shedding, and improves scalp health when used consistently. It’s affordable, easy to make, and free from harsh chemicals—making it a smart addition to any natural hair care routine.
If you’re dealing with hair fall, thinning, or slow growth, this humble kitchen ingredient might be exactly what your scalp needs.

