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Eggs are a popular natural remedy for promoting hair growth and improving hair health. However, their distinct odor can linger on the hair long after washing, which can be unpleasant and embarrassing.
If you’ve ever wondered how to remove egg smell from your hair, you’re in luck. There are several simple and effective methods you can try at home to eliminate the odor and leave your hair smelling fresh and clean.
Let’s look at them.
Products to Use to Remove Egg Smell From Hair
Here are the following things you can use to rid your hair of the foul egg smell:
1. Honey
While there is no specific research on using honey to remove egg smell from hair, a comprehensive review suggests that honey may have odor-controlling properties due to its antibacterial and antifungal properties.
These properties can help neutralize the odor-causing compounds in the hair, potentially reducing the egg smell. Moreover, honey is a valuable remedy for treating seborrheic dermatitis.
According to a study, applying honey to the scalp can alleviate inflammation and itchiness, while also promoting the healing of damaged skin. These findings indicate that honey not only will fight bad odor but is beneficial for hair.
Overall, honey may be a natural and effective option for removing egg smell from hair. (1)(2)
How to use honey to get rid of egg smell from hair:
To use honey to get rid of egg smell from hair, mix one tablespoon of honey with one cup of warm water and apply it to damp hair. Leave it on for 20–30 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with warm water.
2. Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil has antimicrobial properties that can help eliminate bacteria responsible for producing odor.
A study suggests that Melaleuca alternifolia essential oil, which is commonly known as tea tree oil, can inhibit the growth and production of volatile sulfur compounds by bacteria. Therefore, tea tree oil can also be a useful ingredient to combat or mask egg smell from hair. (3)
How to use tea tree oil to get rid of egg smell from hair:
To use tea tree oil to remove the egg smell from hair, mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil such as coconut oil or olive oil. Apply the mixture to the hair and scalp, leave it on for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly with water.
3. Lemon juice
Although there is no specific research on the use of lemon juice to remove egg smell from hair, studies have shown that limonene present in lemon has odor-masking properties that can help mask unpleasant smells.
Research suggests that citral, another compound found in lemon, can also have a masking effect on odors. Therefore, lemon juice may potentially be effective in removing the smell of eggs from hair. (4)
How to use lemon juice to get rid of egg smell from hair:
To use lemon juice to get rid of egg smell from hair, mix equal parts of lemon juice and water, then apply the mixture to the hair and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly with water.
Caution: As per experts, lemon juice on hair or scalp may cause irritation, frizz, sun sensitivity, and allergic reactions. To minimize risks, dilute lemon juice, and protect your hair from direct sun exposure.
4. Garlic oil
The antibacterial and antifungal properties of garlic oil make it a potential remedy for removing unpleasant odors such as egg smell from hair.
According to research, allicin, a major component of garlic oil, can inhibit bacterial growth and reduce inflammation, thereby promoting scalp health and reducing odor. However, further studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness. (5)
How to use garlic oil to get rid of egg smell from hair:
Mix garlic oil with coconut/olive oil in 1:3 ratio or combine 2–3 minced cloves of garlic with thrice the amount of coconut/ olive oil, apply to hair and scalp, and leave on for 15–30 minutes. Rinse with water and shampoo as usual.
Note: However, excessive use or leaving it on for too long may cause scalp irritation, experts warn.
5. Baking soda
A study investigated the effect of varying amounts of baking soda on controlling odors from discarded organic waste. The findings suggest that baking soda can effectively reduce unpleasant odors, with higher volumes resulting in greater odor reduction. These results suggest that baking soda can potentially be used as a natural odor-removing agent, including for hair with egg smell. (6)
How to use baking soda to get rid of egg smell from hair:
Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with 1 cup of water to create a paste. Apply the mixture to your hair and massage it into your scalp. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with water.
Caution: Do not use baking soda on hair regularly/very frequently as it can be harsh on the hair and scalp.
Are Eggs Good for My Hair?
Research has shown that eggs are a beneficial ingredient for hair care due to their high protein content, biotin, and vitamins B12 and D, which are crucial for maintaining healthy hair growth.
In addition, applying eggs on hair can strengthen and thicken hair strands, reduce hair loss, and promote hair growth. (7)
The use of eggs for hair care has been a part of traditional beauty routines in East Asian countries for centuries and has been gaining popularity worldwide due to its effectiveness.
Egg yolk, in particular, is rich in essential fatty acids and vitamins, which can nourish and moisturize the scalp and hair. (7)
How to Use Eggs for Your Hair?
Here are the steps to apply egg on hair:
- Crack one or two eggs into a bowl and whisk them until they are completely mixed.
- Wet your hair in the shower and then apply the egg mixture to your hair, starting from the roots and working your way down to the tips.
- Massage the egg mixture into your scalp for a few minutes to promote circulation.
- Let the egg mixture sit on your hair for 15–20 minutes, allowing the nutrients to penetrate the hair follicles.
- Rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water, making sure to remove all the egg mixture.
- Shampoo your hair as usual to remove any lingering odors.
- Repeat this process once a week for best results.
Most-Asked Questions
Can I use an egg on my hair if I have an egg allergy when eating it?
The use of egg masks for hair is a common practice. However, people with egg allergy should avoid using these masks as they can cause severe allergic reactions.
Research has documented cases of egg hair mask-induced food allergy in individuals with pre-existing egg allergies. In one case report, a person with a known egg allergy developed a severe allergic reaction after using a hen egg hair mask.
Therefore, it is important for individuals with egg allergies to avoid using egg-based hair products to prevent adverse reactions. (8)
Can I apply orange juice or tomato juice on my hair to get rid of egg smell?
Yes, according to some experts, orange juice and tomato juice may be helpful in masking the odor of eggs from hair. They are acidic in nature and may help get rid of bacteria causing bad odor, experts explain.
Final Word
In conclusion, there are various natural remedies, such as honey, tea tree oil, lemon juice, and baking soda, that can effectively mask the unpleasant smell of eggs on hair.
While these remedies are generally safe and effective, individuals with egg allergies should avoid using egg-based hair masks. Overall, incorporating these remedies into a hair care routine can help maintain healthy and fresh-smelling hair.
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