Last Updated on October 6, 2023 by Neelam Singh
Quick Take
A social media post claims that a mixture of egg, coconut oil and lemon can double hair growth in 30 days. We fact-checked and found this claim to be Mostly False.
The Claim
A Facebook reel with the caption, ‘Hair growth doubles in just 30 days’ shows a woman preparing a mixture of egg, coconut oil and lemon. The video further claims that the mixture will be helpful for those dealing with hair fall.
We have attached the screenshot of the post below:
Fact Check
What can be the causative agent of hair loss?
Hair loss can occur due to various reasons. Genetic predisposition, such as androgenic alopecia, is a common cause. Additionally, hormonal changes due to pregnancy, thyroid issues, and medical conditions like alopecia areata can also lead to hair loss. Unhealthy hair care practices such as excessive treatments, the use of harsh products, and tight hairstyles can contribute to hair thinning. Medications, particularly those for cancer and other conditions, as well as radiation therapy, can trigger hair loss, as can stressful events or hairstyles that strain hair follicles. Poor nutrition, aging, and autoimmune diseases are additional contributors. Also, it is crucial to recognize that some hair loss is a natural part of life. While other types can be managed or treated.
Can you double hair growth in 30 days using coconut oil, egg and lemon?
Not exactly. Do-It-Yourself (DIY) hair masks can make hair look voluminous and lustrous if applied less than often. These ingredients might offer some benefits for hair health. But there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that this specific combination will double hair growth in 30 days. Hair growth is a complex biological process influenced by various factors including genetics, diet, overall health, and more.
Coconut oil can reduce protein loss because it can easily penetrate the hair shaft. Similarly, coconut oil remains on the scalp to mask the cuticles and give an oily as well as heavy look to the hair. On the other hand, coconut oil can influence microbes on the scalp and their functions. This means excessive oiling can cause dandruff or produce sebum on the scalp to make hair look flat. Similarly, if the oil is not properly washed out from the hair, it can cause severe damage to the scalp and strands.
Similarly, eggs contain proteins that can potentially strengthen hair strands and promote growth. They are also rich in protein, biotin, choline, and vitamin A that support hair health.
Lastly, even though lemon is a good source of Vitamin C and is an antioxidant, it is better to not use lemon directly on the skin. Lemon is highly acidic and can change your skin’s ph. A component of lemon, limonin could be developed as a useful treatment for hair loss. But the direct application can lead to skin irritation, dryness, and sun damage, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Dr Sonali Kohli, Consultant Dermatology, Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, comments on why the application of lemon should be avoided. She informs, “Lemon is a vibrant source of Vitamin C. It als and has antioxidant and anti-bacterial flavonoid properties which are great for the skin. Lemon juice is highly acidic. Also, the Vitamin C serums does not contain citric acid but the ascorbic acid version of the lemon juice. Ascorbic acid is preferred as it is much more stable to use and beneficial for the skin. When a person applies lemon directly, it disturbs the skin’s pH and makes it completely acidic to cause a range of skin issues and discomfort. Hence, people must avoid its application.”
We asked Dr Sachin Gupta to share his opinion on this claim. He pursued MBBS and MD in Dermatology and Venereology from AIIMS Delhi and is currently associated with Amrita Hospital, Faridabad. He states, “There is no scientific evidence to support the idea that a combination of coconut oil, egg, and lemon can double your hair growth in mere 30 days. Some people believe in this myth because each ingredient in the mixture is believed to have specific health benefits. Even some individuals may have experienced their hair smoother and shiny using this mixture which could have led to a misinterpretation of accelerated growth.
He further informs, “Hair growth depends on multiple factors including genetics, hormones, diet, and overall health. No single DIY cocktail can magically double your hair growth in such a short time. You can eat a healthy diet and follow good hair care practices so your hair grows healthy and strong. If there is any disease, it is better a dermatologist handles it. But there is no way to make it grow twice as fast in 30 days. In fact, the normal growth rate of hair growth is 1-1.5 cm/month. Instead of relying on unproven remedies, consult a dermatologist if you have genuine concerns about your hair growth. Hair growth is a complex process that requires time, care, and a comprehensive approach for the best results.”
This isn’t the first time we have come across inconsistent claims that recommend quick remedies to enhance hair growth. In a previous fact-checking story, we encountered a claim suggesting that garlic promotes rapid hair growth. In another story, it was recommended to use baking soda for hair growth. Yet another story claimed that a combination of coconut oil and aloe vera can make hair longer, more voluminous, and lustrous.
In conclusion, even though these ingredients have their own benefits, there is no evidence which proves that this combination will miraculously reverse hair fall in 30 days. Also, there can be side effects of using this on the scalp.
How to prevent hair loss?
Hair loss prevention involves maintaining a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients like vitamins and minerals, while also prioritizing scalp health through gentle hair care, regular cleaning, and avoiding harsh styling practices. Managing stress, addressing underlying medical conditions, and being mindful of medication side effects is crucial. Minimizing excessive hair treatments, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with exercise, proper sleep, and hydration, and quitting smoking can also contribute to hair health. Consulting a dermatologist or healthcare professional is always better for personalized guidance, as while these practices can promote healthy hair, some causes of hair loss are unavoidable due to genetics or medical factors.
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