Can CBD Help Combat Hair Loss?

For many people, hair loss is a particularly emotional issue. Our hair shapes our individual and cultural identities, expresses who we are, and deeply influences our self-esteem. 

Losing your hair can feel isolating, but it’s actually much more common and widespread than you may think. It’s estimated that over 50% of women will experience noticeable hair loss at some point, and that nearly two-thirds of men will experience male pattern baldness. 

Given those statistics, it’s not surprising that science has come up with a variety of prescription drugs that can help combat hair loss. Doctors often prescribe minoxidil, finasteride, and corticosteroids to men and women experiencing excessive shedding, thinning, or balding.

But what about cannabidiol? Can the naturally derived compound help combat hair loss? Can it complement prescribed medications and enhance their effectiveness? We’re answering those questions, and so much more, below. 

The Most Common Type of Hair Loss

Hair loss can be caused by a number of things— from stress to genetics, hormone changes, and other illnesses— but one of the most common forms of hair loss is androgenetic alopecia, better known as male pattern baldness or female pattern hair loss. 

An estimated 50 million men and 30 million women in the U.S. experience androgenetic alopecia. Hair loss can start as early as a person’s teenage years, but the risk and loss rate increase with age. 

Scientists haven’t yet identified every genetic or environmental factor that causes androgenetic alopecia, but they widely agree that androgens—a group of hormones including testosterone—play a major role in determining your likelihood of hair loss.

Hair growth begins in your follicles, the small structures under your skin that contain the hair bulb and root. Typically, each strand of hair will grow from the follicle for two to six years before it enters a resting period of several months and then falls out. 

Androgens help to control this cycle. Androgens overstimulate the follicles, causing shorter growth periods and delaying regrowth cycles.

The Endocannabinoid System and Hair Loss

The endocannabinoid system is described by Medical News Today as “an active and complex cell signaling network” that “involves a combination of endocannabinoids, enzymes, and cannabinoid receptors that help regulate several functions in the human body.” 

We also know that cannabinoids like CBD and THCV also work through the broader endocannabinoidome (eCBome), an expansion pack of the ECS.

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Available studies indicate that, in addition to playing a role in processes like pain, appetite, immunity, and memory, the endocannabinoid system also plays a role in hair growth. Researchers believe the endocannabinoid system in the skin supports the proliferation and differentiation of hair follicle cells, both of which play a crucial role in hair growth.

They also suggest that activating a specific endocannabinoid receptor, CB1, may slow hair growth. Therefore, using a CB1 antagonist—a compound that blocks this receptor—could potentially stimulate hair production.

READ: How To Make DIY CBD-Infused Hair Products At Home

Using CBD for Hair Loss

Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a CB1 negative modulator and works on eCBome receptors like TRP. Some recent studies have shown that applying it topically may help reduce hair loss and promote regrowth. Current research indicates that it works better on men than women, though both biological sexes experience some level of regrowth. 

It’s important to note that scientists believe the effects of CBD on hair growth are dose-dependent, meaning that using too much could actually lead to an increase in shedding rates. It seems that using 3–4 milligrams of CBD topically per day is the correct dosage amount for most people in this small study. You can also use CBD alongside minoxidil and finasteride, as it works through different biological systems.

THCV is a known CB1 inverse agonist and antagonist, meaning it blocks and does the opposite of THC at CB1. But it hasn’t yet been studied in the context of hair regrowth.

Additional Benefits of CBD Use

For people who are experiencing other non-androgenetic alopecia forms of hair loss, using CBD may also be helpful. 

CBD can be used to fight stress and anxiety, which are common culprits behind excessive shedding in men and women. Studies have shown that it lowers inflammation, which helps when hair loss results from inflammatory conditions like eczema and psoriasis. It can also interact with the endocannabinoid system to help regulate sebum, or oil, production, which plays a role in overall scalp health. 

Finding the Right Product

From limited evidence, scientists think that using CBD topically, via products like serums, shampoos, or hair oils, is the best cannabis-based option for combating hair loss. One 2021 study found that CBD-rich hemp extract used topically led to a 93.5% average increase in hair regrowth.

There are plenty of brands that offer CBD-infused hair and scalp products, but some of the highest-rated include Vegamour, Prose, and R+Co. When looking for a product, avoid those with high alcohol content, which can dry out the scalp, and synthetic fragrances, which can cause adverse reactions. Instead, look for options made with full-spectrum or broad-spectrum oils and low THC levels (it is thought that, unlike CBD, THC may lead to increased hair loss). 

At this point, researchers are not suggesting CBD as an alternative to prescription medications, but as an addition to them. Active ingredients like minoxidil and finasteride interact with different systems in your body, and attack hair loss from other angles. Unless your doctor suggests otherwise, you should not replace your prescription medication with CBD.

Hair to Stay!

Unfortunately, CBD is not a miracle product that will stop hair loss in its tracks. However, it has proven to help slow shedding and promote regrowth. When added to a healthy hair routine, the majority of users find that it produces notable results. 

Once the correct dosage is determined, there have been no reported adverse effects, meaning it’s likely safe for use in most people. Of course, if you have any concerns, we always suggest talking to your doctor before beginning use.