Fact Check: Hair growth remedy using onion, garlic combo can be effective; experts advise caution against overuse, allergies

An Instagram video has gone viral which claims to have a natural remedy to induce hair growth. The video suggests viewers apply oil extracted from boiling onion and garlic along with olive oil to accelerate hair growth on the scalp.

Fact Check

NewsMeter found that the claim is misleading. Experts stated the medicinal benefits of the oil suggested in the video but cautioned against negative impacts due to overuse.

Dr Sushma Sukrithi, assistant professor, consultant dermatologist and trichologist at Kamineni Academy of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, Hyderabad said, “Both onion and garlic are rich in sulphur, which is essential for collagen production, a key factor for healthy hair cells and hair growth.”

The antioxidant properties of onion and garlic can help prevent premature greying and they also improve blood flow to hair follicles, promoting growth. Additionally, their antimicrobial and antibacterial properties can support scalp hygiene.

“While these qualities theoretically make them beneficial treatments, they are strong irritants and can cause significant harm. A study in the American Academy of Dermatology noted that garlic’s irritant properties can benefit autoimmune alopecia areata. However, many people using these ingredients in DIY treatments end up in dermatology clinics with irritant contact dermatitis, suffering from burns, itching, redness, blistering and dry, brittle hair due to overuse,” Dr Sushma added.

The sulphur components in onion and garlic generate strong odour which requires essential oils like lavender to mask the smell. The reason for contact dermatitis is the use of essential oil which can lead to acne pigmentation.

“Rosemary oil, another essential oil now popular for hair care, has shown benefits comparable to 2 per cent minoxidil, which is typically used for mild forms of female-pattern baldness,” Dr Sushma said.

Traditional use of coconut oil

Coconut oil is commonly used in India as hair oil which possesses certain benefits and is used as a base in most DIY treatments. It is being used for scamp, hair and body care.

“Coconut oil is rich in fatty acids such as caprylic acid, capric acid, lauric acid, and palmitic acid, while it can be a great moisturiser, which may give it the appearance of an ideal remedy for dry, itchy, flaky scalps,” Dr Sushma said.

She also warned about lauric acid serving as a nutrient for Malassezia fungus, a natural flora of the scalp’s flora.

“Malassezia fungus thrives on fatty acids between 11 and 24 carbons. Frequent use could disrupt the balance, turning this normally harmless fungus into an antagonist, causing various scalp hygiene issues,” she said.

Consulting a specialist is advisable

Massaging the scalp with coconut oil about an hour before bathing can help stimulate blood circulation and promote hair growth.

Dr Sushma advised doing a patch test if an individual is interested in using strong ingredients like onion and garlic.

“This can help in checking the allergies and limit exposure on the scalp to no more than 30 minutes,” she said.

“Natural remedies certainly offer benefits, but they come with equal risks. In a world where social media exposes us to an abundance of supposed health advice, it’s essential to be cautious. For safe and effective skin and hair care, it’s always best to consult a dermatologist,” Dr Sushma added.