As more and more states legalize medical or recreational cannabis, including most recently Ohio, aspects of its use that were previously unexplored are getting scrutiny. As data accumulates, we are constantly learning new things about how it interacts with various medical conditions… including alopecia. Over the past few years as these programs have spread across the states, the possible connection to hair loss has become a more frequent subject of research.
Can Weed Cause Hair Loss?
Chronic marijuana use may have an effect on hair growth and loss, but at this point those effects are still in the realm of speculation. A 2022 study on cannabis use by alopecia patients showed 80.4% of participants indicated no positive or negative impact on their hair loss issues. There were measurable improvements in some symptoms, primarily the social and psychological symptoms that often accompany hair loss – stress, anxiety, and depression.
Can Topical Cannabis Extract Improve Hair Growth?
The research is promising. A 2023 study used a daily topical hemp extract formulation (33 mg/day for 6 months), which provided optimal results to using oral finasteride, 5% minoxidil daily foam and CBD topical extract alone.
Since the mechanism used by this extract is completely different from the ones used by finasteride and minoxidil, the two approaches can be used simultaneously with a high expectation of synergistic results. That said, the safety and efficiency of combining these therapies has yet to be fully explored.
Does Marijuana Inhibit DHT?
DHT is a hormone produced by converting testosterone that can stimulate hair growth at the follicle level. Too much DHT can also be a factor in hair loss, usually in conjunction with other factors. Studies indicate that cannabis use can impede the androgen receptors that DHT binds to, effectively acting as an anti-androgen. (Anti-androgens are drugs that block the effect of androgens such as testosterone and its derivative DHT).
Can CBD Cause Hair Loss?
There are a wide variety of cannabinoids. THC (or tetrahydrocannabinol), the main psychoactive compound in cannabis, being only one of them.
Numerous studies have shown that some cannabinoids may encourage hair growth while others may impede it. CBD in high concentration doses can cause hair loss, but in lower doses can stimulate hair growth. This illustrates the need for proper and detailed diagnosis of your condition to determine how the dosage can be adjusted and allow for optimal hair growth.
While more research is required in order to gain a clear understanding of any safety issues and the efficacy of the approach, it is safe to say that topicals of this nature have the proper concentration while lacking other phytocannabinoids.
RHRLI: Replace, Regrow, and Maintain a Healthy Head of Hair
At RHRLI, we stay up to date on the most current research and technology in the hair restoration field. Our spectrum of methodologies gives us the tools to bring to bear on any variety of hair loss. This includes a variety of minimally invasive treatments, lifestyle advice, medications, natural supplements, and – in cases where hair replacement is needed – the ARTAS® Robotic Hair Restoration System. Let us get you on the road to the luxurious head of hair that you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.