Melatonin is a hormone secreted by the human brain that regulates the sleep cycle. This hormone, which is responsible for regulating the biological clock, is also known as the hormone of youth and peace. Another known effect of it is its relation to graying of hair. So, does melatonin cause hair loss?
The receptors in the hair follicles recognize melatonin and, if the presence of this hormone is detected, they prolong the growth phase. This situation makes the related hormone an important treatment option for hair loss.
Does melatonin cause hair loss? Or does it have a protective effect on the hair? All the details about melatonin and hair health are in our article.
Table of Contents
Does Melatonin Cause Hair Loss?
Hair loss is an important problem seen in both men and women today. The causes and triggers of this problem are examined in a wide range. Moreover, studies enable to find of new causes and the discovery of new treatment methods. Thus, elimination of hair loss can sometimes be possible with a different treatment. Melatonin stands out as one of them.
Androgenetic alopecia, as it is known, draws attention as the most serious cause of hair loss today. It is a problem caused by genetics and causes hair loss in both men and women. A study has revealed that the hormone melatonin, which is applied to androgenetic alopecia patients for a period of 30 to 90 days, reduces the severity of hair loss.
Melatonin hormone gives effective results in the treatment of hair loss. However, as in all areas, the treatment must be applied correctly and at an appropriate level. Otherwise, the related hormone applied in excess may lead to hair loss.
Free radicals, hormones, and enzymes can damage hair follicles. Melatonin regulates them. Therefore, the loss may occur due to melatonin treatment being applied at the wrong level.
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Does Melatonin Provide Protection Against Hair Loss?
Hair has a unique growth cycle. These cycles are;
- Anagen (growth),
- Catagen (transition),
- Telogen (rest) and
- Exogenous (loss)
The main aim of hair loss treatment is to prolong the anagen phase. Melatonin extends this phase and thus positively affects the hair loss treatment. It also helps to reduce oxidative stress in the body thanks to its antioxidant properties. This situation prevents the hair follicles from being adversely affected by stress.
Methods to Increase Melatonin Levels
It is important to increase the level of this hormone to avoid problems caused by low melatonin levels and to support hair loss treatment. The details of the methods to be used for this are as follows:
Supplementing Melatonin is Important
Although the supplement of this hormone is generally used for sleeping problems, it is known to be a useful supplement for people who do not have this kind of problem. However, it should be noted that this supplement must be taken with the approval of a doctor.
Do not Prefer Artificial Lighting
The invisible blue light emitted from the screen of electronic devices such as computers, phones, and tablets slows down the secretion of melatonin. Therefore, it would be beneficial to stay away from these devices as much as possible. You can use low-light table lamps for your reading and writing needs.
Have a Quality Sleep Routine
Known as the stress hormone, cortisol has an important place in the sleep cycle. In a healthy person, cortisol levels are low at night and high during the day. However, this situation may change due to excessive stress, and thus sleep routine may be disrupted. This in return negatively affects melatonin production. That is why it is important to reduce stress before going to sleep and to have a quality sleep routine to increase the level of melatonin.
Consume Foods Containing Melatonin
To increase the level of melatonin naturally, it is necessary to consume foods rich in this substance. Some of those are banana, cherry, pineapple, white rice, egg, salmon, dairy products, and tomatoes.
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Melatonin and Hair Health
Melatonin is generally known as a supplement often used in the treatment of sleep problems. However, recent studies have shown that this hormone also gives effective results on hair loss. It has been found that when applied topically to the scalp, it reduces the severity of hair loss due to male pattern baldness. No known side effects have been detected. However, it is recommended not to be used by pregnant women and those in the sensitive group.
Anti-free radical effect and ability to stimulate follicles of this hormone means it can slow down some processes related to hair loss and aging.
Schedule a Consultation
Does melatonin cause hair loss? No, many studies show that the hair is positively affected as a result of the treatment applied in the appropriate dose and in the right way. At this point, it is important to prefer doctors who are experienced and specialized in applying this treatment. Cosmeticium will exceed your expectations in this field with its experience and expertise in hair loss treatments such as PRP.
At COSMETICIUM, we apply the treatments for your hair loss considering the characteristics of our patients. Thus, we ensure that the loss is slowed down or stopped. You can contact us immediately for detailed information on the subject.
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