

If you're looking for a natural and effective solution for acne, you must try onion water! It might sound a bit unusual, but the truth is, onions aren’t just for cooking—they’re a natural treasure packed with antioxidants and antibacterial compounds that help cleanse the skin and fight acne.In this article by Dalily Medical, we’ll explore the top benefits of onion water for your face, especially in treating acne, and show you how to use it safely and easily at home.
Benefits of Onion Water for Skin: The Natural Secret to Healthy, Radiant Skin
If you want smooth, glowing skin without acne or dark spots, you need to know about the amazing benefits of onion water — a trending natural skincare remedy!
✔️ 1. Sun Protection
Onion water is rich in antioxidants that help protect your skin from sun damage and reduce the harmful effects of UV rays, which can cause darkening and pigmentation.
✔️ 2. Fighting Wrinkles
Onions contain natural compounds that help combat signs of aging, like fine lines and wrinkles, making your skin look younger and more refreshed.
✔️ 3. Brightening Skin and Reducing Dark Spots
Onion water is known for its ability to lighten skin tone and reduce pigmentation by promoting skin cell renewal and removing dead skin.
✔️ 4. Natural Glow and Radiance
Regular use of onion water boosts blood circulation in the skin, giving your face a healthy and radiant glow all day long.
How to Make Onion Water for Your Face — Simple Steps
If you want to enjoy the benefits of onion water at home, here’s an easy way to prepare it with simple ingredients:
Preparation Steps:
Peel a medium-sized onion and wash it well.
Chop it into small pieces to make blending easier.
Blend the pieces with a small amount of water until smooth.
Strain the mixture through a clean cloth or fine sieve to get pure onion water.
If you don’t like the strong onion smell, add one or two drops of essential oils like:
Lavender oil
Peppermint oil
Rosemary oil
These will also help soothe your skin.
Benefits of Onion Water for Face and Skin
Protects Skin from the Sun
Onion water is rich in important vitamins like A, C, and E, along with antioxidants such as flavonoids. These help protect the skin from harmful UV rays and reduce their damaging effects.
Fights Wrinkles and Aging
Onion water contains a powerful antioxidant called quercetin, which helps delay the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, keeping your skin youthful.
Detoxifies the Skin
The antioxidants in onion help purify the blood from toxins, which reflects positively on skin health and reduces skin problems.
Reduces Skin Inflammation
Onions have natural anti-inflammatory compounds that soothe the skin and help reduce irritation and redness.
Boosts Radiance and Glow
Thanks to its antioxidants, onion water stimulates blood circulation in the face, giving your skin a healthy and glowing appearance.
Brightens Skin and Fades Dark Spots
Onion water is rich in vitamin C, which helps lighten the skin and fade dark spots and pigmentation. You can mix it with a bit of turmeric for enhanced results.
Treats Acne
With its antibacterial properties, onion water helps cleanse pores and reduce acne, especially those caused by infections or excess oil buildup.
Benefits of Onion Water for Dry Skin: Natural Hydration with Fast Results
If you have dry skin suffering from flakiness or dullness, onion water could be the natural solution you’re looking for. Here’s how it helps:
Soothes Inflammation
Onion water contains quercetin, a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent that calms irritated and red skin — perfect for sensitive dry skin.
Delays Wrinkles
Dry skin is more prone to aging signs, but the antioxidants in onion help fight wrinkles and fine lines, keeping your skin youthful and smooth.
Removes Blemishes and Minor Spots
Onion contains natural acids and active compounds that can help lighten minor spots and gently cleanse the skin from impurities.
Vitamin C for Clear Skin
Rich in vitamin C, onion water plays an important role in brightening the skin and reducing pigmentation, restoring your face’s natural glow.
Hydrates and Softens Skin
One of its best features is moisturizing dry skin, preventing flakes, and leaving your skin soft, smooth, and free from excessive dryness or rough patches.
If you have oily skin, onion water also plays a strong role in treating most of its problems, such as:
✔️ 1. Treating Acne
Thanks to its antibacterial properties, onion water deeply cleanses pores and reduces acne, especially for oily skin that produces excess sebum.
✔️ 2. Fighting Early Aging
It protects the skin from wrinkles and fine lines that can appear early due to excess oil and sun exposure.
✔️ 3. Sun Protection
Onion water contains antioxidants and vitamins that help protect the skin from sun damage and reduce inflammation caused by daily sun exposure.
✔️ 4. Evening Skin Tone
It stimulates blood circulation in the face, making oily skin look clearer and brighter over time, while reducing dark spots and uneven pigmentation.
Onion is rich in natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory substances, making it an excellent choice for treating skin problems, especially acne.
Key Benefits of Onion for Skin and Acne:
Antibacterial and Germ-Fighting:
Onion contains natural antiseptic compounds that kill bacteria causing acne and reduce inflammation that worsens skin problems.
Cleansing and Soothing:
It helps purify and cleanse the skin, accelerating the healing of acne scars and minimizing their appearance over time.
Sun Protection:
Onion water is rich in vitamins A, C, and E, which protect skin from harmful UV rays and reduce their damaging effects.
Detoxifying Skin:
The antioxidants in onion help remove toxins from the body and blood, which improves skin health and decreases facial skin issues.
Brightening Dark Spots and Pigmentation:
Vitamin C in onion water is very effective in fading dark spots and pigmentation caused by acne or sun exposure. Adding a pinch of turmeric enhances this effect, as turmeric is known for its spot-reducing properties.
Onion is not just a kitchen staple but also packed with amazing benefits for your skin. To get the best results, try these natural methods:
1. Exfoliate Dead Skin with Onion Peel Massage
Gently rub your skin with onion peel for 5 minutes.
Rinse your face with lukewarm water.
This helps remove dead skin cells and renew your skin.
2. Onion Juice Toner to Even Skin Tone
Finely chop an onion and squeeze out the juice.
Soak a cotton pad in the juice and apply it to dark areas on your face.
Leave it on for 15–20 minutes, then wash with water.
Repeat twice a week for more even skin tone.
3. Onion Mask to Purify and Cleanse Skin
Blend two onions into a paste.
Apply the paste to your face and leave for 15–20 minutes.
Wash off with lukewarm water.
This will leave your skin clearer and smoother.
4. Onion Water for Skin Cell Renewal
Grate an onion and soak it in clean water in a container for 12 to 24 hours.
Strain the onion water and use it as a daily facial rinse to renew skin cells and improve skin appearance.
5. Onion Oil to Reduce Wrinkles and Improve Skin Elasticity
Boil onion pieces in vegetable oil for 15–20 minutes.
Strain and let the oil cool.
Gently massage the oil onto your skin to enhance elasticity and reduce wrinkles.
6. Onion and Honey Mask for Radiance and Elasticity
Mix onion juice with a teaspoon of natural honey.
Apply to your face for 15–20 minutes.
Rinse with lukewarm water to reveal a more radiant and elastic skin.
Combining onion water with other natural ingredients enhances its effectiveness. Try these recipes for clear, even-toned, and glowing skin:
1. Onion Water and Yogurt Mask for Skin Purification
Mix equal parts onion water and yogurt in a small bowl.
Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil, like lavender or peppermint.
Apply to your face for 10–15 minutes, then rinse with warm water.
Use twice a week for clean, soft skin.
2. Onion Water and Milk Mask for Skin Nourishment
Mix 2 tablespoons of flour with 1.5 tablespoons onion water, half a tablespoon milk, and a pinch of nutmeg.
Stir until you get a thick paste.
Apply to your face and leave for 20 minutes until dry.
Rinse with warm water. Repeat twice a week for rejuvenated skin.
3. Onion and Flour Mask for Smooth, Glowing Skin
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons flour
1 tablespoon fresh onion juice
Half a teaspoon milk
A few drops of lavender oil
A pinch of nutmeg
Mix onion juice, flour, and lavender oil to form a dough-like paste.
Apply to face and neck after cleansing.
Leave for 20 minutes, then gently massage in circular motions.
Rinse with milk softly.
4. Onion Mask to Remove Dark Spots and Pigmentation
Method 1:
Cut an onion in half.
Gently rub your face with the onion half.
Leave onion juice on your skin for 10 minutes, then wash with water.
Method 2:
Mix equal parts fresh onion juice and milk, add a few drops of coconut oil.
Apply and massage gently in circular motions.
Leave for 10–15 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water.
These recipes effectively lighten dark spots and pigmentation.
5. Onion and Rice Water Mask to Even Skin Tone
Mix 1 tablespoon onion juice with 1 tablespoon rice water (soaked or boiled).
Soak a cotton pad with the mixture and apply to your face.
Leave for 10 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water.
Regular use will even your skin tone and soften your skin.
6. Onion, Turmeric, and Yogurt Mask for Brightening
Mix 1 tablespoon onion juice with a pinch of pure turmeric and 1 tablespoon yogurt.
Apply to your face and leave for 10–15 minutes.
Rinse gently with lukewarm water.
This natural mask is powerful for brightening spots and improving skin glow.
Natural Face Mask Recipes Using Onion Juice for Radiant and Healthy Skin
Onion juice is one of nature’s beauty secrets with many benefits for the skin. Here is a collection of easy and effective recipes you can use to improve your skin:
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon onion juice
1 tablespoon starch
A little warm water to form a smooth paste
Preparation:
Mix all ingredients until you get a smooth paste.
Apply it evenly on your skin and leave it to dry completely.
Then rinse your face with warm water.
Result:
Clear, smooth, and firm skin.
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon onion juice
1 tablespoon potato juice
Preparation:
Mix the onion juice with the potato juice well.
Apply to pigmented areas every other day.
Leave for 10 minutes, then wash your face.
Result:
Quick lightening of dark spots and reduction of old pigmentation marks.
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon onion juice
½ tablespoon finely powdered pomegranate peel
1 tablespoon yogurt
Preparation:
Mix all ingredients well.
Apply the mixture to your skin and leave it for 15 minutes.
Wash your face with lukewarm water.
Result:
Firm skin, reduced wrinkles, and noticeable radiance.
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon onion juice
½ tablespoon ground fenugreek
1 tablespoon yogurt or aloe vera gel
Preparation:
Mix all ingredients thoroughly.
Apply the mask for 10 minutes.
Rinse with lukewarm water.
Result:
Deep pore cleansing, reduced acne and blackheads.
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon onion juice
1 teaspoon boiled eggplant water
½ tablespoon starch
Preparation:
Mix ingredients well.
Apply on your face and leave for 15 minutes.
Wash with warm water.
Result:
Brightened, soothed, and more even skin tone.
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon onion juice
1 dried fig soaked and mashed
1 tablespoon honey
Preparation:
Mix all ingredients well.
Apply the mixture on your face for 20 minutes.
Rinse with warm water.
Result:
Deep hydration, skin renewal, and excellent nourishment.
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon onion juice
1 tablespoon fresh cabbage juice
A drop of lemon juice (optional)
Preparation:
Mix all ingredients.
Soak a cotton pad with the mixture and wipe your face.
Leave for 10 minutes and then rinse.
Result:
Tightened pores, reduced oil secretion, and clear radiant skin.
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon onion juice
1 teaspoon raw cocoa powder
1 tablespoon yogurt
Preparation:
Mix ingredients well until smooth.
Apply the mask on your face for 15 minutes.
Wash your face with warm water.
Result:
Radiant, glowing skin with a very soft texture.
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon onion juice
1 tablespoon flaxseed gel (soaked, boiled, and strained)
Preparation:
Mix the onion juice with the flaxseed gel thoroughly.
Apply the mask like a gel and leave for 20 minutes.
Rinse your face with lukewarm water.
Result:
Natural skin firming, reduced sagging, and deep hydration for a healthy youthful look.
If you’re looking for a natural skincare routine using onion, this schedule offers a simple and organized plan suited for every skin type, helping you get the best results safely.
Day | Oily Skin | Dry Skin | Combination Skin | Normal Skin | Sensitive Skin |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Saturday | Onion & Tomato Juice Mask for Acne | Onion with Honey & Coconut Oil Mask | Onion & Yogurt Mask | Onion & Honey Mask | Onion & Rose Water Mask |
Sunday | Rest or Natural Toner | Rest or Toner with Light Oil Moisturizer | Rest or Toner with Rose Water | Rest or Light Rose Water Wipe | Full Rest |
Monday | Onion & Oatmeal Mask for Oil Exfoliation | Onion & Aloe Vera Gel Mask for Moisturizing | Onion with Honey & Mild Lemon Mask | Onion & Rice Water Mask | Onion & Fat-Free Yogurt Mask |
Tuesday | Rest and Toner Only | Moisturizing Only | Rest | Rest | Rest |
Wednesday | Onion & Turmeric Mask for Spot Lightening | Onion with Starch & Olive Oil Mask | Onion & Potato Juice Mask | Onion & Aloe Vera Gel Mask | Onion & Small Amount of Honey Mask |
Thursday | Rest or Rose Water Wipe | Rest with Good Moisturizing | Rest with Light Cleansing | Rest | Full Rest |
Friday | Onion & Lemon Mask (on acne spots only) | Onion & Honey Mask | Onion with Oatmeal & Yogurt Mask | Onion with Aloe Vera Gel & Honey Mask | Onion & Aloe Vera Gel Mask |
Patch Test: If this is your first time using onion masks, try applying a small amount on a small skin patch first to make sure you don’t have any allergic reaction.
For Sensitive Skin: Use diluted onion juice with rose water or aloe vera gel in very small amounts to avoid irritation.
Water Temperature: Never rinse the mask off with hot water. Always use lukewarm or cold water.
After the Mask: It’s essential to moisturize your skin with a light cream or aloe vera gel to keep hydration and soothe your skin.
Frequency: Twice a week is enough for sensitive or dry skin to prevent dryness or irritation.
Onion has many benefits for the skin but can cause problems if used incorrectly or on sensitive skin. Here are the main possible side effects and tips to avoid them:
Skin Irritation and Redness
Onion juice is concentrated and strong, which may cause burning or redness, especially for sensitive skin.
Tip: Always dilute onion juice with moisturizing ingredients like yogurt or aloe vera gel before applying.
Skin Allergies
Some people are naturally allergic to onion, which can cause:
Severe itching
Intense redness
Peeling or rash
Safety Test: Apply a small drop behind the ear and wait 24 hours before full use.
Dryness
Onion contains astringent compounds that may dry out or tighten the skin if used frequently or for a long time.
Strong Onion Smell
The smell may linger on your skin even after washing, which can be unpleasant for you or others around you.
Tip: Wipe your face with a cotton pad soaked in rose water or lemon juice after washing off the mask.
Increased Sun Sensitivity
Onion compounds can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, especially if you go out without washing your face properly afterward.
Tip: Always wash your face well after the mask and avoid direct sun exposure immediately.
Worsening Acne or Open Wounds
If you have inflamed acne or open wounds, onion juice might increase inflammation and cause severe burning.
Dark Spots or Hyperpigmentation
In rare cases, continuous onion use may cause dark spots, especially with sun exposure without protection.
Eye and Sinus Irritation
The strong onion smell can cause tearing, burning in the eyes, headaches, or nasal congestion if exposed in closed spaces for long periods.
Weakening the Skin’s Natural Barrier
Excessive use (more than twice a week) can reduce the natural oils that protect the skin, making it drier and more sensitive.
Chronic Rash or Itching
Even if no allergy appears initially, repeated use can cause chronic rash or itching.
Who Should Avoid Onion Masks?
People with very sensitive skin
Patients with rosacea or eczema
Those with open wounds or cracks
People sensitive to strong onion smells
Clogged Pores
Heavy or long-lasting masks can clog pores, especially for oily skin types.
Negative Reactions with Other Products
Using onion masks with strong skincare products (like serums containing AHA/BHA acids or retinol) can increase irritation or weaken the skin.
Excessive or Uneven Peeling
Onion enzymes help exfoliate, but wrong use may cause excessive peeling affecting skin softness.
Problems Around Mouth and Eyes
Skin there is very sensitive; onion may cause:
Excessive peeling
Itching
Dryness
Especially if not diluted properly.
Mild Flaking or Scaling
Some may notice mild flaking a couple of days after use due to sulfur compounds in onion.
Onion juice is effective for the skin but can cause problems if not used correctly. To protect your skin, you must pay attention to these precautions:
Avoid Contact with Eyes, Nose, Mouth, and Lips
Onion juice is strong and burning, so avoid getting it near your eyes, nose, mouth, or lips.
If it accidentally touches these areas, rinse immediately with cold or lukewarm water.
Do Not Use on Wounds or Damaged Skin
Do not apply onion juice on:
Open wounds
Sunburned skin
Dry or irritated skin
If your skin is wounded or inflamed, wait until it heals before applying onion juice.
Avoid Using on Eczema Areas
If you have eczema, do not apply onion juice on those areas unless they are fully healed.
Do Not Mix with Acne Medications Without Doctor’s Advice
If you use other acne medications, do not combine them with onion juice on the same area unless your doctor approves.
Avoid Using Irritating Products Alongside Onion Juice
Stay away from products containing:
Harsh or strong soaps and cleansers
Products with harmful alcohol
Excessive astringent agents
These ingredients can increase irritation when used with onion juice.
Do Not Use Topical Sulfur Medications with Onion Juice
Sulfur combined with onion can increase skin irritation, so if you use sulfur-based medications, avoid using onion juice at the same time.
Be Careful If You Have Sensitive Skin or Allergy to Onion
If your skin is very sensitive or you have allergies to onion, sulfur, or similar substances, it is best to avoid using onion juice altogether.