Yes, Vaping Causes Hair Loss – But How?

Nearly 9 million people in the United States vape, and a significant portion of them experience hair loss. This increase in hair loss issues has prompted a closer examination of the potential causes, with vaping emerging as one of the suspects. In this discussion, we will explore the answer to: Does vaping lead to hair loss? If so, what is its potential impact on hair loss?

What is Vaping?

Vaping, often referred to as a potential alternative to cigarettes, is a battery-operated device that utilizes heat to transform a liquid, typically containing nicotine, flavorings, and various chemicals, into an aerosol, which can be inhaled.

Vaping Side Effects

Similar to cigarettes, vaping has its own list of side effects that sometimes exceed the side effects of cigarettes depending on the vaping level and individual health condition.

Does Vaping Cause Hair Loss?

While there is no direct evidence proving that vaping causes hair loss, there are theoretical mechanisms that could contribute to it. Some chemicals in e-cigarette vapor have shown toxic effects on hair follicles in lab studies. Also, the high temperatures from vaping may potentially harm hair follicles. 

A study from the University of Southern California suggested that vaping might lead to hair loss in both men and women. The study revealed increased levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which is crucial for reproductive health. Nicotine in e-cigarettes may be responsible for these hormonal changes, as it has been shown to affect hormones like estrogen and testosterone in animal studies. This could explain why vaping has been associated with changes in sexual function, libido, and even weight fluctuations.

Nicotine and Hair Loss

Nicotine in e-cigarettes may contribute to hair loss as it narrows blood vessels, possibly reducing blood flow to hair follicles. However, the exact nicotine amount needed for this effect is unclear due to varying e-liquid nicotine levels. 

It’s crucial to understand that e-cigarettes are not considered harmless; nicotine exposure can lead to severe health issues, including cancer, heart disease, strokes, high blood pressure, diabetes, and kidney disease, as warned by the American Lung Association.

5 Common Causes of Hair Loss

Androgenetic Alopecia (Male and Female Pattern Baldness): 

This is when you gradually lose your hair over time because it runs in your family. It can happen to both men and women.

Alopecia Areata: 

Imagine your body’s defense system getting confused and attacking your hair by mistake. This can make you lose hair in small, round patches suddenly.

Telogen Effluvium:

Sometimes, if you go through a really stressful or tough time, a lot of your hair can decide to take a break and fall out together. This makes it seem like you’re losing more hair than usual.

Medical Conditions and Treatments: 

If you have certain health problems (like issues with your thyroid or ovaries) or need treatments like chemotherapy for cancer, they can make your hair fall out.

Nutritional Deficiencies: 

Not eating enough of the right foods can also make your hair fall out. Things like iron, biotin, and protein are like special food for your hair, and if you don’t get enough, it can get weaker and fall out.

Hair Loss Treatment

You will find several hair loss treatments but not most of them are very effective but Microneedling has emerged as one of the winners in recent years, it has been effectively treating the poor scalp and helping in growing hair back naturally.

Microneedling for Hair Loss

Microneedling for hair loss is a minimally invasive procedure where tiny needles on a dermaroller or microneedling device create micro-injuries on the scalp’s surface. These micro-injuries stimulate the skin’s natural healing response, increase blood flow to the scalp, and trigger the release of growth factors and collagen production. This helps your hair grow because it brings more nutrients to your hair roots and makes them stronger. 

Finding a Microneedling Expert

If you are addicted to vaping and suffering from hair loss then along with quitting the vaping you need a cosmetic treatment to get your hair back, and no one is better than Dr Syra when it comes to going through Microneedling for hair loss in NYC. Get your appointment booked today.

FAQs

If I stop vaping will my hair grow back?

As it is said that vaping is a potential cause of hair loss, some people might ask “if i stop vaping will my hair grow back” the answer for is: yes, the hairs can be grown back but not by just stopping vape but by taking extra medications that are known for hair regrow.

Can smoking cause hair loss?

Similar to vaping, there is no clear evidence but some studies suggest that smoking can be a potential cause of hair fall.

Can weed cause hair loss?

There is a debate amongst the experts whether weed can cause hair loss or not? Some experts suggest that weed can be one of those causes that can make one bald.