Unexpected Benefits Of Adding Onion To Your Skin Care Routine

There seems to always be a new skin care obsession we can't get enough of. While some beauty trends are riskier than others, there's one new vegetable ingredient that's backed by science – onion juice and onions. Yup, you read that right. Onions are notoriously known for their rich antioxidant properties, and most of that rich antioxidant potential is found in the outer peel, according to a 2019 study. This probably explains why onions are a staple ingredient across many cultures. Not to mention, they're also anti-parasitic (aka they shoo away parasites and microbes found within the digestive tract) according to a 2018 study. But how does this apply to skin care?

For starters, onions are proven to aid in scar reduction. In fact, one 2018 study examined how onion extract gel impacts postsurgical scar treatment. What the researchers found was that onion gel extract was just as effective as silicone gel in reducing the appearance of scars.

A different review published in the International Journal of Green Pharmacy explains that as well as being antioxidant and anti-parasitic, onions are also anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial. They contain selenium, sulfur compounds, and potassium, and are brimming with vitamin B1, vitamin C, and vitamin B2. Because of these properties, onions may have the potential to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation on the skin (per Healthline). So, how do you add onion to your skin care routine?

If you're toying with the idea of adding onion to your skin care routine, there's plenty of options to try. Some people swear by DIY treatments because you're able to control the concoction. For those seeking the skin brightening and moisturizing power of onions, Healthline suggests creating an oatmeal, onion, and honey mask. However, when it comes to treating scars, an onion extract gel works well to reduce the distinction, explains a 2018 study published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology. To make this onion extract gel, Healthline recommends mixing freshly squeezed onion juice and pure aloe vera gel together. Aloe vera may improve the results since it's well-known for its wound-healing benefits.

Keep in mind, any type of onion can be used, but remember that the outer layer has the richest antioxidant benefits (via Journal of Food Science and Technology), so it may be wise to start there to enhance that radiant glow.

If you don't have time to DIY, there are several store-bought beauty products that contain this special ingredient. They can range from moisturizers and gels to creams and luscious face masks. Healthline suggests to look for an ingredient called "allium cepa extract." This is also known as onion extract. While products with onion bulb extracts are generally considered safe to use, if you have an onion allergy, you may want to avoid using any products with this powerful vegetable ingredient.