How to Make Onion Hair Oil at Home
Onion hair oil is a popular DIY scalp treatment made with red onion and nourishing carrier oils. It’s often used to support hair growth, reduce hair fall, and improve overall scalp health.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 medium to large red onion (a natural source of sulfur and antioxidants)
- 2–3 tablespoons coconut oil or castor oil (deeply conditions and supports the scalp)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or argan oil (optional) (adds extra softness and shine)
- A few drops rosemary or tea tree essential oil (optional) (helps with scalp freshness and scent)

Step-by-Step: How to Prepare Onion Hair Oil
- Peel and cut the red onion into small pieces.
- Blend or crush the onion until it becomes a pulp.
- Strain the pulp using a cheesecloth or fine strainer to extract the onion juice.
- In a small pan, warm your carrier oil (coconut, castor, or a mix) over low heat.
- Slowly add the onion juice into the warmed oil.
- Let the mixture gently simmer for 5–10 minutes, stirring now and then.
- Keep the heat low and avoid overheating.
- Turn off the heat and allow it to cool completely.
- If you like, add a few drops of essential oil for scalp benefits and a more pleasant aroma.
- Strain again if needed, then pour into a clean glass bottle for storage.
How to Use Onion Hair Oil
- Part your hair and apply the oil to the scalp and roots with your fingertips.
- Massage for 5–10 minutes to support blood circulation.
- Leave it on for at least 1 hour, or overnight if your scalp tolerates it well.
- Wash with a mild, sulfate-free shampoo to remove oil and odor effectively.
- For best results, use 2–3 times per week consistently.
Benefits of Onion Hair Oil
- Helps activate hair follicles and may support faster hair growth
- Can reduce hair thinning and excess hair fall
- Supports a healthier scalp by helping fight dandruff and scalp infections
- Over time, may improve hair strength and shine
Tips and Warnings
- Do a patch test first, especially if you have sensitive skin or a reactive scalp.
- Onion has a strong scent—try adding essential oils or rinsing with diluted lemon water after shampooing.
- Avoid using onion hair oil if you have an onion allergy or experience irritation.


