Melatonin, often termed the "sleep hormone," emanates from the pineal gland in the brain and plays a crucial role in regulating our sleep-wake cycle. But now, this "sleep hormone" has made news because of its potential effects on hair health. Being a major antioxidant, melatonin induces sleep but can also combat oxidative stress, the cause believed to contribute to ageing. We will discuss the relationship between melatonin and hair growth, consider some effects that medications might have on the hair's health, and finally unveil the best management and reversal practices for hair loss. What is Melatonin, and How Does It Impact Hair? Melatonin is the natural hormone produced by the pineal gland, which is more active at night when the individual sleeps. It is most famously known for the control over our internal body clock so that we sleep and stay asleep. However, this hormone does much more than control sleep. Melatonin is also an antioxidant fighting free radicals, causing oxidative stress that damages cells and speeds up ageing, including ageing hair follicles.
Recent studies show that melatonin may also play a role in hair growth as hair follicles have melatonin receptors controlling the hair growth cycle. The level of fluctuation of melatonin helps people maintain their hair healthy, warding off causes which may lead to the thinning of hair, but when the levels of melatonin decrease, the possibility for a hormonal imbalance occurs and stressful hormones like adrenaline or the hair thinning hormone known as dihydrotestosterone, or DHT may be triggered. How Medications Can Cause Hair Loss Certain medications can disrupt the normal hair cycle, resulting in a condition called drug-induced hair loss. The hair cycle has two main stages:
Anagen Phase: The growth phase, lasting 2-7 years.
Telogen Phase: The resting phase, lasting about three months, after which hair falls out and new hair replaces it.
Medications can cause two types of hair loss:
Telogen Effluvium: The most common kind of drug-induced hair loss occurs about 2-4 months after starting the medication and results in hair follicles entering the telogen, or resting, phase too early, resulting in a sudden increase in shedding, where affected individuals will have shed 30-70% more than they normally would have.
Anagen Effluvium: This occurs within the anagen or growth phase, which inhibits the hair matrix cells from effective production of new hairs. It usually appears some days or weeks after starting some drugs such as chemotherapy. It will cause hair loss on both the scalp and other body parts.
The severity of drug-induced hair loss depends on the type and dosage of medication, as well as individual sensitivity. Managing Drug-Induced Hair Loss If you see drug-induced hair loss occur, consult a doctor to discuss possible alternatives or adjustments. Often, stopping or switching the medication can allow hair to regrow on its own. In cases where stopping the drug doesn’t help, treatments like minoxidil (Rogaine), dutasteride (Avodart), or finasteride (Propecia) may stimulate hair regrowth by targeting the hair cycle. Side Effects and Considerations for Melatonin Use If considering melatonin for sleep or hair health, be aware of potential side effects, including:
Headaches
Dizziness
Nausea
Daytime drowsiness
Anxiety
Confusion or irritability
Stomach cramps
Conclusion Before any treatment for hair loss, discuss as many alternatives as possible, even lifestyle changes and those with a potential interaction with medications. There are also non-invasive and invasive treatments available for those experiencing more significant levels of hair loss. Meeting with a hair restoration specialist can determine the most suitable course of action based on individual needs. FAQs
How does topical melatonin impact hair follicles? Ans. Some studies prove the concept that melatonin, when applied topically, makes hair follicles come back to life. Melatonin can also improve sleep quality since it reduces stress. One of the major causes of hair loss is stress, hence improved sleep quality brings an end to it. However, the doses of melatonin should be well-balanced since over or under-consumed levels can damage hair health. An imbalance of melatonin can result in hormonal fluctuations leading to hair follicle shrinkage and thinning.
What are the effects of incorrect melatonin dosages on hair? Ans. While balanced melatonin is healthy for the hair, wrong dosages work and vice versa. Incorrect amounts of this hormone may cause an imbalance in hormones that regulate enzymes and antioxidants responsible for maintaining hair follicle health. Free radicals may damage hair cells or shrink hair follicles at the wrong levels. The proper dosage is key.
How might melatonin interact negatively with certain medications? Ans. Melatonin may also interact negatively with some medications, such as blood thinners, blood pressure medications, and seizure drugs. Additionally, those with autoimmune conditions should avoid melatonin, as it could trigger unwanted immune responses.
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