Are you one of considering Melatonin could be dangerous for hair? Or even cause hair loss?
However, the opposite is true.
Hair growth is a complex process regulated by many hormones and genes. Melatonin is a natural hormone secreted by the pineal gland, which has been known to slow down hair loss in some cases.
This article discusses whether Melatonin can be used for hair loss treatment.
Should I Try Melatonin for Hair Loss?
Yes, Melatonin is a powerful antioxidant that protects the cells from damage and can help prevent hair loss.
In recent years there has been an expanded curiosity about using Melatonin to stop or reverse hair loss.
One study has shown that the topical use of melatonin can positively affect hair regrowth by stimulating hair follicles, but the study isn’t strong, and actually, it isn’t the main reason why Melatonin can helps hair growth.
Melatonin Reduces Too Much Cortisol:
Stress might be a huge factor when it comes to hair loss.
Besides, stress provokes other health problems, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, Alzheimer’s, as well as Depression.
Melatonin can help reduce cortisol levels by stimulating a mood regulation effect and encouraging neurogenesis (BDNF protein), eventually elevating sleep quality.
This is huge because anything that makes you sleep better can improve your overall health.
Related: Why Is Melatonin Important For Well-Being, Anxiety, And Depression?
Can insomnia make your hair fall out?
Yes, insomnia can make your hair fall out.
Sleep deprivation can cause your body to produce extra cortisol. High levels of cortisol are released in response to stress, and it stops the production of healthy hormones like testosterone and estrogen, which can lead to hair loss. That’s why Melatonin is the key factor for hair health.
Stress Can Lead To Impair Nutrients Supplied
The hair follicle is a complex structure that needs to be nourished from the inside and outside. The cells of the hair follicle are constantly in need of nutrients for growth, repair, and renewal.
These nutrients are supplied by hormones, vitamins, minerals, and water in the hair follicle’s blood vessels.
According to studies, acute and chronic stress levels inhibit important vitamins and proteins such as:
- Hyaluronic Acids
- Collagen(Cortisol may inhibit collagen synthesis. )
- B-Vitamins
B vitamins deficiency (including Biotin) is another important factor that might be the reason increase in hair loss caused by stress.
Stress can come in many forms; how it affects your body is unique to you. There are many ways to deal with stress, such as meditation and Wim Hof Breathing. However, a more practical solution can help you get back on track: Optimizing Sleep (Melatonin).
What Are The Studies About Melatonin And Hair Growth?
Ton’s of studies showed that Melatonin counteracts Cortisol, which we mention as the main factor of hair loss and protein breakdown.
According to the study, Melatonin acts as an antioxidant that reduces oxidative stress, which might worsen hair loss (exposure to pollution, UV radiation, smoking, etc.).
Mitochondria are the powerhouses that generate energy in cells and produce a variety of important molecules, including energy carriers and signaling molecules.
However, when Mitochondria are impaired, that leads to excessive oxidative stress and affects our hair health.
Optimizing Melatonin support Mitochondrial Health and trigger Mitochondrial Biogenesis. (Eventually leads to better health)
Melatonin As DHT Blocker
DHT is a hormone mostly found in prostate and hair follicles cells. When DHT binds to these cells, it can lead to hair loss. DHT also
Melatonin can be a natural DHT blocker that can help prevent hair loss by reducing the cortisol hormone. However, there is no clear study about it.
Other DHT Blockers:
- Curcumin: Most people do not become aware that Curcumin potentially helps to get rid of excessive DHT, as well as supports blood flow, protects veins from damage, as well a boosted mood.
- Black Tea: The study showed that the caffeine found in black tea could reach hair follicles to block dihydrotestosterone (DHT), and Black Tea consumption, done on mice at Harvard University, decreased DHT levels by 72% and raised testosterone by 35%.
- Saw Palmetto: Actually, it isn’t strong as others, but it can help reduce enlarged prostate and inflammation and slightly affect DHT.
- Limit Creatine: There is not any relationship between hair loss and Creatine. Yet, one study showed that creatine overload might increase DHT levels by more than %30 percent. It’s better to limit creatine intake instead of completely avoid.
How Does Melatonin Compare To Other Treatments Or Supplements For Hair Loss?
For that, I create a table for a better understanding and you may be interested in comparing the effects of melatonin supplements to those of other popular supplements(on the market). More, this table provides a detailed comparison of melatonin with various nutrients. Let’s check..
| Supplement | Potential Effects on Hair Loss |
|---|---|
| Melatonin | Melatonin may have a positive effect on hair growth by regulating the hair growth cycle and reducing inflammation as we talked about. Regardless, more research is needed to confirm these findings. |
| Biotin | Biotin is a B vitamin that is necessary for the production of keratin, a protein that makes up a significant portion of hair. Some research has suggested that biotin supplementation may improve hair growth and prevent hair loss. |
| Saw palmetto | Some research suggests that saw palmetto may inhibit the production of DHT, a hormone that can contribute to hair loss. |
| Iron | When iron levels are low, the lack of oxygen can cause hair follicles to go into a dormant phase, leading to hair loss(mostly in women). Supplementing with iron may help stimulate hair growth in individuals with an iron deficiency. (But this is not the case most of the time for men) |
| Zinc | Zinc, a vital mineral that supports protein synthesis, has been linked to hair loss because protein deficiency is a problem for sure. Taking zinc supplements may help promote hair growth in those with a deficiency. Beside, Zinc plays a role in the production of keratin, a protein that makes up a significant portion of hair. |
What Factors May Influence The Effectiveness Of Melatonin For Hair Loss In Individuals?
- The form of the melatonin supplement: Melatonin is available in various forms in the vast market, including pills, sprays, and creams, and different forms may have different levels of absorption and effectiveness.
- Melatonin plasma levels: Ou body is naturally produced Melatonin, and high or low levels of plasma melatonin may affect its effectiveness. For example, if someone has a high level of plasma melatonin(not deficiency), may not experience additional benefits from taking melatonin supplements.
- Inflammation levels: Proinflammatory cytokines(e IL-1, IL-6, and TNF-α) can affect hair growth and may influence the effectiveness of melatonin for hair loss.
- Dosage: The optimal dosage of melatonin for hair loss may vary from person to person, and taking too much(more than 10 mg) or too little(less than 0.5 mg) may affect its effectiveness.
- People differences: Melatonin may not have the same effect on everyone. The genetic markup is different and some people may not experience benefits from taking it for hair loss.
How Much Melatonin Do I Need?
The best way to optimize Melatonin levels is by reducing artificial Blue light at night and reducing the amount of EMF exposure. However, in some cases, you might need to use Melatonin supplements for acutely.
The average adult needs between 3-6 mg of Melatonin daily to maintain good health. However, In my opinion, most of the population does not need more than 0.5 to 1 mg per day.
As with any supplement, it is best to consult your doctor before taking more than the recommended dose of Melatonin.
Related: Can Melatonin Supplements Make You Anxious?
Tips for Stimulate Hair Follicles on My Head
Here are some recommendations that will help to stimulate hair follicles.
- Scalp Massage: Chinese people use massage for better health and longevity. On the other hand, scalp massage is an ideal way to reduce stress and helps in increasing hair follicles.
- Protein-Rich Diet: Excessive activation Autophagy and lack of protein can cause hair loss in most people. Eating good amino acids prevents hair loss, promotes muscle growth, and supports the immune system by positive nitrogen balance. Plus, protein-rich animal foods contain b vitamins and zinc, which is another factor that might prevent hair loss.
- Avoid chemical products or treatments: Chemical treatments such as bleach or dye can limit hair growth. Cautiously use heat styling products as well.
- Use Coconut Oil: You can use hair follicles to repair themselves with natural oils such as Coconut oil and Almond Oil. However, for me, it’s not always the case.
Test your Vitamin D and Zinc levels in order to reach optimum health and better quality hair.
Zinc can promote the synthesis of Melatonin and other important hormones, including the Thyroid hormone.
Anything trouble with the Thyroid can cause hair loss and other health issues.
Outline:
Hormones are far strong signaling for health and longevity, and anything related to hormonal problems can be harmful to cells, including hair health.
Optimize Melatonin can be helpful as a more promising antioxidant to support hair health and better stress management.
Suggestion: