Does Smoking Cause Hair Loss? – Intro
Does smoking cause hair loss? Scientists have actively discussed this question for smokers and people with hair loss problems. In this way, the possible link between smoking and hair loss has emerged. Some people argue that there is no relationship between smoking and hair loss, but extensive research and several case studies have been conducted to refute this claim.
In this blog post, we will address and answer popular questions such as “Does smoking cause hair loss?” and “What is the effect of smoking on hair loss?”. We will also explain possible solutions to hair loss caused by smoking.
How Smoking Causes Hair Loss?
The side effects of smoking are quite high. Apart from lung cancer and respiratory diseases, smoking is thought to damage the hair. Smoking can affect hair health in many ways. Since there is more than one way that smoking affects hair follicles, it can eventually lead to hair loss. Those who wonder how smoking causes hair loss can find the answer in our article.
First of all, smoking causes oxidative stress and reduces blood flow to the hair follicles. Since hair follicle cells are sensitive to oxidative stress, hair loss can begin when stress levels rise. In addition, toxic chemicals in tobacco and cigarettes clog blood vessels that deliver oxygen and nutrients to hair follicles. Impaired blood flow increases the likelihood of hair damage or loss.
Secondly, the nicotine in cigarettes and tobacco causes microinflammation of the hair follicles and desensitization of the receptors. This, in turn, leads to the death of hair follicles. Third, smoking can cause significant damage to your immune system. Such conditions can lead to diseases that cause hair loss. However, it can increase the risk of bacterial or fungal scalp infections.
Hair loss cases involving bacterial infection are often very difficult to treat. In addition, smoking can cause early-onset androgenic alopecia and early-onset gray hair. In summary, does smoking damage hair? The answer to the question is yes. This is due to nicotine and toxic chemicals in cigarettes and tobacco.
Will My Hair Grow Back After I Quit Smoking?
After you quit smoking, your body will heal itself as soon as possible. For example, the damage to your lungs will gradually reverse. However, there is no scientific evidence that hair that has fallen out will grow back after you stop smoking.
This does not apply to people with thinning hair. Smokers will definitely regain their healthy hair after quitting smoking. The same cannot be said for those with male pattern baldness. After quitting smoking, the hair becomes full, thick and oily again. This should not be confused with the regrowth of lost hair follicles. Specific treatments such as hair transplantation are recommended for regrowth of lost hair.