Social media algorithms tout onion juice concoctions, overnight oiling rituals, and fermented rice water as miracle fixes for hair loss and premature greying. But are these kitchen remedies actual science, or just sticky, smelly placebos? To separate hair myths from clinical reality, in this week’s HT Health Talk , we spoke with Dr Shraddha Kologi, visiting consultant, dermatology and hair transplant surgery, Aster RV Hospital, Bengaluru. Also read | Dimple Kapadia shares the secret to gorgeous hair: ‘Excellent’ natural haircare ingredients like onion juice
addressing early triggers like vitamin B12 deficiency, thyroid imbalances, or chronic stress can make a measurable difference While genetically driven greying remains irreversible. Below is Dr Kologi’s evidence-based guide to navigating hair fall, safe colouring, and real regrowth solutions. Hair oiling mainly conditions the hair shaft, reduces friction and helps minimise breakage; it does not directly stimulate hair follicles or prevent genetic hair loss. Coconut oil may help reduce protein loss from hair. However, leaving oil overnight can aggravate dandruff or seborrhoeic dermatitis in some people, particularly those with oily scalps. Excessive massage may also cause breakage in fragile hair. Apply a suitable oil to the lengths of the hair, wash it off regularly, and avoid vigorous scalp massage. Oiling should be considered a conditioning practice, not a medical hair-growth treatment. Genetics is a major contributor to male and female pattern baldness. Physical or emotional stress , inadequate sleep, rapid weight loss and nutritional deficiencies, particularly iron, protein, vitamin B12 and vitamin D deficiencies, can trigger excessive shedding. Hormonal conditions, thyroid disorders, certain medications and scalp infections are other possible causes. Tight hairstyles, excessive heat styling and chemical treatments can also damage hair. Premature greying in your 20s can sometimes be associated with vitamin B12 deficiency, iron deficiency, thyroid disorders or other underlying conditions. Stress may also accelerate the greying process. Correcting an identified nutritional deficiency or treating an underlying medical condition may occasionally help restore pigmentation, particularly when greying is relatively recent. However, genetically determined greying is generally irreversible. There is currently no proven treatment that reliably restores natural hair colour once pigment production has stopped. Anyone experiencing unusually early or rapid greying should consider a medical evaluation rather than relying on commercial reversal products. Also read | Grey hair in your 20s, poor memory in your 30s? Neurologists explain whether chronic stress is making you age faster
When it comes to premature greying, plucking won’t make 10 more grow — a total myth — but it can permanently scar your hair follicle, she highlighted. Because treatment varies depending on whether hair loss is genetic, temporary or medically induced, identifying the underlying trigger is essential.
Also read | Amrita Arora shares family’s secret hair oil recipe with onion, hibiscus, fenugreek seeds; says she and Malaika Arora have used it since childhood Hair fall among young adults can result from several factors.
