Thinning edges and bald spots can be frustrating. For women, it often feels like no matter what you try, those fragile edges just won’t grow back. For men, bald spots on the crown or hairline can make you feel older than you are. The truth is, not all hair loss is the same — and that’s why so many “miracle cures” fail.
In this guide, we’ll look at why your bald head and edges won’t grow back on their own and the natural remedies that can actually help.
Why Edges and Bald Spots Stop Growing
Before jumping into treatments, it helps to know the cause.
For Women (Edges)
- Traction alopecia: Tight braids, wigs, ponytails, and weaves constantly pulling on hair.
- Chemical damage: Relaxers, dyes, and harsh gels weaken hair over time.
- Stress and hormones: Can cause temporary thinning around the hairline.
For Men (Bald Spots)
- Genetics: Male pattern baldness is the number one reason hair thins on the crown or recedes at the temples.
- Poor scalp health: Build-up, dandruff, or blocked follicles can slow growth.
- Nutritional gaps: Low levels of vitamin D, zinc, or iron can make bald spots worse.
The bottom line? If follicles are scarred or completely dead, hair won’t return naturally. But if the problem is weak follicles, poor circulation, or damage, natural remedies can make a real difference.
Natural Fixes That Can Help
Here are proven natural remedies that can support healthier regrowth for both women and men:
1. Castor Oil
Castor oil — especially Jamaican Black Castor Oil — is one of the most popular remedies for thinning edges. It’s thick, nutrient-rich, and known to stimulate blood flow to the scalp.
How to use: Warm a few drops in your hands, massage into edges or bald spots for 5 minutes, then cover with a silk scarf overnight.
👉 Check Jamaican Black Castor Oil on Amazon
2. Onion Juice or Onion-Infused Oil
Onions are packed with sulfur, which strengthens hair and boosts circulation. A 2002 study even found onion juice helped patchy hair regrow faster.
Option 1 (Juice): Blend an onion, strain the juice, and massage into the scalp. Leave for 20–30 minutes, then wash.
Option 2 (Oil): Fry chopped onions gently in shea butter, strain, and apply the infused oil to edges. Less smell, same benefits.
3. Rosemary Oil
Rosemary oil has been studied against minoxidil (the active ingredient in Rogaine). In some cases, it performed just as well for hair regrowth without harsh side effects.
How to use: Mix a few drops with a carrier oil like olive or coconut. Massage into the scalp 3–4 times per week.
4. Aloe Vera
Fresh aloe vera soothes an inflamed scalp and helps follicles stay healthy. While it won’t magically regrow bald spots, it creates the right conditions for stronger hair.
How to use: Apply the gel directly to thinning edges or bald patches, leave for 30 minutes, rinse.
5. Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil improves circulation and may stimulate growth. In animal studies, it boosted hair growth similar to chemical treatments.
How to use: Always dilute with a carrier oil before applying. Massage gently into scalp.
6. Protective Habits
Even the best oils won’t work if daily habits keep damaging your hair.
- For women: avoid tight styles that pull on edges. Switch to looser braids or natural looks.
- For men: keep the scalp clean, avoid harsh shampoos, and massage daily.
- Everyone: use satin or silk at night to prevent breakage, and avoid alcohol-based gels.
What to Expect
It’s important to set realistic expectations:
- Timeline: Most people need at least 6–8 weeks of consistent care before seeing new growth.
- Results vary: If follicles are scarred or hereditary baldness is advanced, results may be limited.
- Consistency matters: Applying oil once or twice won’t help — the key is regular care.
Final Word
If you’ve been struggling to regrow your bald head or thinning edges, you’re not alone. The good news is, natural remedies like castor oil, onion juice, rosemary oil, and aloe vera can improve scalp health, strengthen hair, and in many cases, encourage new growth. Pair them with protective habits and patience, and you give your hair the best chance to come back stronger.