The red onion is the most commonly used ingredient in the cooking industry. Almost all dishes have this as their secret ingredient. This is because it can deliver a wide array of flavors to any dish-sweet, spicy, sweet, sour-you name it an onion can taste like it.
However, many people do not like an onion because of its strong, pungent and tear-inducing smell. But did you know that a red onion has plenty of benefits to the skin? Yes, you read it right! This vegetable that is hated by many can actually be the skin-saving ingredient that they are looking for!
To know more about the benefits of red onions for skincare, please do check out the information that we have provided below:
- Anti Aging
Yes, this is at the top of our list because for sure, everyone would want to take advantage of this amazing benefit.
Red onions are packed with antioxidants such as vitamins A, C, and E. In addition to that, it also has phytonutrients and phytochemicals that can also neutralize free radical damage and prevent signs of aging such as age spots, and dark spots. It is also an effective way on how to get rid of dynamic wrinkles and ways to get rid of static wrinkles.
More than its nutrients and vitamins, onions also contain high amounts of water that can keep skin hydrated, moisturized, supple and healthy.
- Acne Treatment
Acne is a common skin condition that many people from all over the world are suffering from. According to studies, this skin issue is caused by clogged pores, dirt and dust buildup and bacterial infection.
With that in mind, we can say that red onion is an effective acne treatment. This is because it has antibacterial, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory properties, all of which can help decrease the risk of acne breakouts.
If you wish to use onions for treating acne, you can simply mix a tablespoon of onion juice with a tablespoon of olive oil. Apply the mixture to your face and allow it to air dry for 20 minutes. Rinse it off with water afterward.
- Skin Brightening
We all want a fair and lighter skin complexion, but too much sun exposure can prevent us from having it. Well, onions are here to your rescue.
Aside from the fact that onions are filled with antioxidants that can protect the skin from sun damage, it also has flavonoids which can increase the absorption of vitamin C in the body. More than just a potent antioxidant, vitamin C is also a known skin brightening agent. This is the reason why onions have also been associated with the treatment of dark spots and sunspots.
To brighten your skin, mix 2 tablespoons of gram flour with 1 1/2 tablespoons of onion juice. Add a pinch of nutmeg and a half teaspoon of milk. Mix everything to form a paste. Apply to the skin and rinse it off with water.
- Mole Treatment
There are some studies that show that onion extract is also good for getting rid of moles. Many people attribute its effectiveness to the high acidity levels of onions.
All that you need to do is to apply a diluted onion extract to the mole and let the mole absorb it. According to some, it would take about a month before you can see its effects.
- Insect Bite Treatment
If you have been dealing with insect bites or bee stings, you will be glad to know that onions can also be used for treating these conditions.
For one, onion has anti-inflammatory properties which can address the swelling and redness that are associated with these bites. It is also effective in treating the bites of ants, mosquitoes, and even spiders.
To use this as an insect bite or bee sting treatment, slice an onion and rub the juicy side of the slice to the affected area. If the bite is painful, you can try taping the slice of onion on the affected area. Let it stay there for a few hours.
- Scar Solution
Due to its amazing anti-inflammatory properties, many people claim that red onions can also help in fading scars, especially those that are related to acne.
During the early formation of scars, an excess amount of collagen fibers pile up in the affected area which may result in a hardened or raised scar. Onions can inhibit the production of collagen in the area which may prevent the scar from forming. As a result, the size and height of the scar are reduced. It has also been noted that onions can lessen the redness of the scar too.
- Hyperpigmentation Corrector
Aside from brightening the skin, onions can also address different types of discoloration. This is also because of the high vitamin C content of this vegetable. Its phytonutrients and vitamins can also aid in removing the impurities from the skin.
To use the onion in treating hyperpigmentation, mix two teaspoons of fresh onion juice with a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice. Dip a cotton ball in the mixture and apply it to the affected area. Let it be absorbed by the skin for 15 minutes. Rinse it off with water afterward.
You can also use it as a face mask by mixing a tablespoon of fresh onion juice with a pinch of turmeric powder.
You may not like the smell, taste or appearance of an onion but whether you like it or not, you cannot deny the fact that it is extremely beneficial to your skin. Lucky for you, there are plenty of ways on how you can enjoy an onion’s skincare benefits without having to deal with its taste and smell!
But please do keep in mind that you should never apply raw, undiluted onion extract on your skin as it may do more harm than good (it may cause skin irritations!). If you wish to use onion extract in the safest way possible, we recommend that you go for the commercially available onion juice products instead.
