Can Nicotine Cause Hair Loss? Here’s Everything You Need To Know

Medically reviewed by Dr. Amy Revene M.B.B.S.

Written by Our Editorial Team

Last updated Mar 06, 2024

Are you noticing a change in the thickness of your hair and wondering if nicotine could be the culprit?

You already know that smoking isn't good for your health, but did you ever think about what it might be doing to your hair?

It's a valid question, as scientific studies have shown a correlation between nicotine and hair thinning, especially in individuals who engage in cigarette smoking.

Nicotine can constrict blood vessels, reducing blood flow to hair follicles, which are essential for hair growth.

In this article, we'll explore the connection between nicotine and hair loss, providing evidence-backed insights to help you make informed decisions about your hair health.

Join us as we uncover the truth, strand by strand, to ensure you have all the information you need to keep your hair game strong and healthy.

Summary

There is strong evidence to support the connection between nicotine and hair loss. Nicotine can constrict blood vessels, reducing blood flow to hair follicles and causing oxidative stress and inflammation, ultimately contributing to hair thinning and loss.

However, the good news is that nicotine-induced hair loss can be treated and managed by adopting a healthy lifestyle, reducing or eliminating nicotine consumption, and using effective treatments such as the Scandinavian Biolabs Hair Growth Routine, minoxidil, finasteride, a healthy diet, and essential oils.

If you're experiencing hair loss and are a smoker, quitting or reducing your nicotine habit can go a long way in improving your hair health and overall well-being. Remember, healthy hair starts with a healthy lifestyle.

Nicotine and hair loss

According to many scientific studies, nicotine and hair loss have a deep connection. Your chance of hair loss may increase if you smoke tobacco since it can harm your hair follicles.

In a study conducted in 2020, male smokers and non-smokers between the ages of 20-35 were compared for the rate of early onset androgenetic alopecia.

Just 200 of the 500 non-smokers displayed hair loss symptoms, compared to 425 of the 500 smokers who had some form of hair loss.

According to the Hamilton-Norwood scale for measuring hair loss, stage 3 is characterized by a significant hairline recession, while stage 4 involves noticeable balding at the crown of the head.

A study discovered that among the smoking cigarettes participants, 47% experienced stage 3 hair loss, and 24% reached stage 4. In contrast, only 10% of non-smoking participants showed hair loss at stages 3 or 4.

Researchers also suggested in an earlier 2003 study that the harmful compounds in cigarette smoke might cause harm to the DNA within cells in your hair follicles. Reduced hair growth could result from injury to these cells' DNA.

How nicotine causes hair loss?

Nicotine contributes to hair loss through various mechanisms, which are elaborated on below:

Vasoconstriction: Nicotine, a primary component of tobacco products, has been linked to hair loss due to its vasoconstrictive properties. When blood vessels are constricted, the blood flow to hair follicles is reduced, depriving them of the essential nutrients and oxygen needed for healthy hair growth. Consequently, this can lead to hair thinning and, in some cases, hair loss.
Oxidative stress: Additionally, smoking generates harmful chemicals and toxins that can cause oxidative stress on hair follicles. This oxidative stress can damage the hair structure and weaken the follicle, contributing to smoking-related hair loss. According to a review of recent studies published in 2018, cells in the hair follicles of bald scalps are especially vulnerable to oxidative stress.
Less blood reaching your hair follicles: Cigarette chemicals can harm your heart and circulatory systems. Your hair follicles are nourished by blood vessels, which enable the transfer of nutrients and waste removal. Hair loss or destruction of your hair may result from reduced blood supply to your scalp.
Impact on the hair growth cycle: Nicotine can also shorten the anagen (growth) phase and potentially prolong the telogen (resting) phase. This disruption in the hair growth cycle can lead to hair thinning and loss.
Inflammation: The substance can also trigger an inflammatory response in the body, which may indirectly impact hair health. Inflammation can weaken hair follicles, causing hair to become more brittle and prone to breakage.

How to treat nicotine hair loss

Nicotine-induced hair loss can be a cause for concern, but it is possible to treat and manage this condition with the right approach. The first step is to stop smoking or reduce nicotine consumption to minimize its negative effects on hair health.

If quitting smoking is challenging, consider using alternatives like nicotine gum or nicotine patches to reduce exposure to the harmful chemicals in cigarettes.

Here are some medications and solutions that can be used to treat nicotine hair loss:

Scandinavian Biolabs Hair Growth Routine

The Scandinavian Biolabs Hair Growth Routine is a formulated system intended to nourish hair strands and enhance the appearance of hair thickness. This 3-step system is designed to nourish your hair and enhance its appearance, contributing to the look of healthier, more vibrant hair.

Each product within the routine is enriched with multiple plant growth factors, created using stem cell technology to nourish hair follicles and encourage hair growth.

The products in this routine contain a range of ingredients like Capilia Longa, Niacinamide, and Aloe Vera, designed to nourish your hair and enhance its appearance.

This unique blend of ingredients is intended to contribute to the look of healthier, more vibrant hair.

Hair Growth Routine | For Men

Formulated to combat shedding & signs of balding

Minoxidil

Minoxidil is a vasodilator drug that has been proven effective in treating various types of hair loss, including that caused by nicotine.

By widening the blood vessels, minoxidil enhances blood flow to the hair follicles, ensuring that they receive an adequate supply of nutrients and oxygen.

This improved blood circulation stimulates hair growth and helps prevent further hair loss. Additionally, minoxidil prolongs the growth phase of the hair cycle, which leads to the production of thicker, stronger hair strands.

However, it is essential to note that minoxidil is not a cure for hair loss, and its effectiveness may vary depending on the individual.

Combining minoxidil treatment with a reduction or cessation of nicotine consumption can further improve hair regrowth and overall hair health.

Read this: 10 Best Natural and Drug Alternatives To Minoxidil

Finasteride

Finasteride is a medication primarily used to treat male pattern baldness, but it can also be beneficial in addressing nicotine-induced hair loss.

It works by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT).

DHT is a hormone linked to hair follicle miniaturization and hair loss in genetically susceptible individuals.

By reducing DHT levels in the scalp, finasteride prevents hair follicle shrinkage and prolongs the growth phase of the hair cycle.

This leads to increased hair density, thickness, and overall hair health.

Read this: 6 Most Effective Alternatives To Finasteride

Eating a healthy diet

Eating a healthy diet that includes adequate amounts of protein, iron, vitamin C, omega-3 fatty acids, biotin, and zinc can improve blood circulation to the scalp and promote hair growth, which can help reduce nicotine-induced hair loss.

Foods such as fish, eggs, lean meats, and beans are excellent protein sources, while leafy green vegetables, red meat, and fortified cereals are rich in iron.

Vitamin C is also important for hair health, as it helps the body absorb iron. Citrus fruits, strawberries, and bell peppers are all excellent sources of vitamin C.

Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in fatty fish, nuts, and seeds.

Biotin, a B vitamin, is also crucial for hair growth and can be found in foods such as eggs, almonds, and sweet potatoes.

Zinc is another nutrient important for hair health and can be found in oysters, beef, and pumpkin seeds.

While a healthy diet may not be a standalone solution to hair loss caused by nicotine, it can contribute to overall hair health and complement other treatments such as medication and lifestyle changes.

Essential oils

Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts used for centuries for their therapeutic properties.

When used properly, they can be a natural and effective way to promote hair growth and mitigate hair loss caused by nicotine.

Rosemary oil can improve blood circulation to the scalp and reduce inflammation, making it an effective treatment for nicotine-induced hair loss.

Lavender oil can increase the number of hair follicles and improve their depth, while peppermint oil contains menthol, which has a cooling effect that can soothe an irritated scalp caused by nicotine.

Tea tree oil can help unclog hair follicles and reduce scalp irritation, mitigating hair loss caused by nicotine and promoting hair growth.

Overall, using essential oils as a natural complement to other treatments can improve hair health and mitigate hair loss caused by nicotine.

Read this: 10 Best & Proven Essential Oils For Hair Growth

Will hair loss from nicotine grow back?

Hair loss from nicotine use may be reversible in many cases, particularly if one quits smoking which can help reverse the impaired hair growth. A healthy, balanced diet and hair-stimulating products can aid in hair regrowth. However, results will vary and may take time to become noticeable.

A healthy, balanced diet is essential for hair regrowth, as hair follicles require nutrients such as Vitamin A, D, B-Vitamins, E, C, Zinc, Protein, and Iron.

These nutrients can be found in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and animal products. Supplements can also be taken if one's diet lacks these nutrients.

Hair-stimulating products, available in topical serums, shampoos, gels, conditioners, tablets, and lash and brow products, can also help regrow hair after nicotine-induced hair loss.

Consistent use of these products over a few weeks is necessary for noticeable results.

Conclusion

FAQs

Can stress worsen nicotine-induced hair loss?

Yes, stress can worsen nicotine-induced hair loss by disrupting the hair growth cycle and contributing to oxidative stress and inflammation. Practicing stress-reducing techniques such as meditation or yoga can help mitigate this effect.

How long does it take for hair to regrow after quitting smoking?

Hair regrowth after quitting smoking can vary from person to person, and it may take several weeks to several months to notice a significant difference. Consistent use of hair-stimulating products and a healthy diet can aid in hair regrowth.

Does hair loss from nicotine affect men and women differently?

Hair loss from nicotine can affect both men and women, but male pattern baldness is more common in men. Women may experience thinning hair all over their scalps instead of bald spots.

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Dr Amy Revene M.B.B.S. graduated from the University of Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates. She is currently working as a General Physician at New Hope Medical Center. Amy has a passion for research and offers her expertise and opinions to help people in their quest to lead healthy, happy lives.