Has your hair been looking lackluster and thin lately? You’re not alone. Approximately 80 million people in the United States are affected by hair loss or thinning hair. CBD oil has recently emerged as a potential natural treatment to help promote hair growth and treat conditions like alopecia.
While research is still limited, early studies and anecdotal evidence suggest CBD oil, when applied topically or ingested orally, may help with hair growth and hair loss conditions like androgenetic alopecia. CBD oil shows promise in reducing scalp inflammation, increasing blood flow, and countering the effects of DHT – a hormone linked to hair loss.
CBD, short for cannabidiol, is one of over 100 cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis, CBD is non-intoxicating and has gained attention in recent years for its potential therapeutic uses.
When it comes to hair, CBD oil may help by strengthening hair follicles and mitigating damage caused by inflammation and oxidation. Early research indicates CBD could become a promising natural treatment for common hair conditions like alopecia and seborrheic dermatitis.
CBD Oil and Hair Growth
The potential effects of CBD oil on hair growth are linked to the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS helps regulate essential functions in the body, including hair follicle cell growth.
CBD can interact with ECS receptors found throughout the scalp and impact factors like inflammation that can inhibit follicle growth. Reducing scalp inflammation allows hair to grow unimpeded.
In addition, CBD oil contains high concentrations of vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps enhance blood circulation in the scalp. Improved blood flow provides essential nutrients to hair follicles, speeding up growth. The rich vitamin E content also helps strengthen and moisturize dry, brittle hair prone to damage and breakage.
Early research shows promise in CBD oil in helping treat hair and scalp conditions characterized by inflammation, such as seborrheic dermatitis. In one study, topical CBD oil reduced symptoms like itching, burning, and scalp pain in patients with seborrheic dermatitis.
CBD Oil for Androgenetic Alopecia (AGA)
A very common form of hair loss is androgenetic alopecia (AGA), characterized by a receding hairline and thinning crown region. Also known as male or female pattern baldness, AGA impacts and can begin as early as the late teens.
While genetics play a significant role, AGA occurs when hair follicles shrink in response to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) – a derivative of testosterone. DHT binds to receptors and interferes with the hair growth cycle, often resulting in thinner, wispier hair over time.
A small 2018 study found CBD oil may counteract the effects of DHT. In the study, patients with AGA applied a CBD-rich hemp oil to their scalp daily. After six months, over 93% of participants saw an increase in total hair count.
While more research is needed, these early results suggest CBD may help block DHT and promote healthier hair growth cycles in AGA patients.
Topical CBD Application for Hair Growth
In addition to its use in treating AGA, early studies focused specifically on topical CBD application indicate potential for stimulating hair follicle growth.
In one study, researchers applied CBD gel to rat skin samples in lab settings. They found increased novellas hair count – thicker, pigmented hair rather than fine vellus hairs.
However, CBD concentration matters. Too high of a CBD dose may lead to hair follicle cell death and potential hair loss, according to some researchers. Finding the optimal levels of CBD is key for hair growth applications.
CBD Oil for Hair Loss and Thinning Hair
CBD oil may also help counter general hair loss and thinning hair. By interacting with ECS receptors, CBD can influence several biological processes that impact hair health.
As mentioned, CBD oil may target the underlying causes of many common hair loss conditions, like androgenetic alopecia. Blocking DHT allows hair follicles to maintain regular growth cycles.
In inflammatory conditions like seborrheic dermatitis, CBD oil helps reduce scalp inflammation. With less burning, itching, and flaking, new hair growth faces fewer impediments.
Through its antioxidant properties, CBD might also mitigate hair damage and dryness caused by environmental stressors, ultimately supporting healthier hair growth cycles less prone to breakage-related thinning.
While more research is still needed, CBD oil’s ability to help normalize hair growth patterns shows promise in counteracting multiple types of hair loss and promoting lush, healthy hair.
How to Use CBD Oil for Hair Growth
When using CBD oil for hair growth or hair loss conditions, there are a few options:
- CBD-Infused Shampoos & Conditioners – Look for hair care products containing CBD oil or hemp seed oil. Gently massage into scalp & hair before rinsing thoroughly.
- CBD Oil Tinctures – Ingest a CBD tincture with a dropper daily to reduce scalp inflammation & counter hair-damaging hormones internally.
- CBD Oil – Using a dropper, apply CBD-rich oil directly to the areas of the scalp prone to hair loss or thinning hair 2-3 times a week. Gently massage into the scalp.
It’s important to note there is no standard CBD dose for hair growth. Start with smaller doses (5-10 mg) and gradually increase every 2 weeks until the desired effects are achieved. Consulting a doctor first is recommended.
CBD Oil for Hair
Making CBD oil a part of your regular hair care regimen may help you enjoy luscious and thick hair. There are several ways CBD oil helps you to fulfill your dream of strong, healthy hair. Let us discuss them one by one.
1. Soothes Scalp
CBD oil comes packed with the goodness of the omega fatty acids that protect the hair’s moisture and nourish the cuticles. According to the findings of a recent study, by applying cannabidiol oil to the scalp, you can address scalp dryness and promote hair growth.
2. Promotes Hair Growth
CBD hair growth also results from enhanced blood circulation that encourages the growth and strength of your hair. The ability of this hemp-extracted cannabinoid to elevate cerebral blood flow results in more nutrients reaching the hair to promote its growth.
3. Prevents Hormonal Stress and Induces Hair Loss
Hormonal fluctuations and imbalances are some of the reasons that trigger hair loss. The common hormone responsible for receding hairlines is DHT. Hormonal stress-induced hair loss needs more than an external treatment alone. It is where hemp oil benefits for hair come into play.
CBD interacts with several receptors that regulate the functioning of hormones to help achieve body balance. This interaction helps to promote the hormonal balance required to cope with hair loss and stimulate hair growth.
4. Strengthens Hair
Exposure to dust and pollution, coupled with unhealthy lifestyle choices, can damage the very building blocks of your hair and skin. The unchecked use of styling tools and products can harm your hair follicles, leaving them damaged and weak. The potent moisturizing properties of this cannabis-extracted oil can aid in repairing damaged hair and restoring its beauty. The regular use of CBD helps treat lifeless and damaged hair by smoothening its texture and creating a better appearance.
The antioxidants present in the oil can protect your hair from environmental damage and repair the damage. Your hair will remain hydrated and well-nourished even in harsh weather conditions.
Conclusion
While still an emerging area of research, CBD oil shows significant potential in strengthening hair follicles and stimulating growth. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may mitigate key factors underpinning conditions like alopecia and seborrheic dermatitis.
Early studies support that regularly applying CBD oil could become a game-changer for those struggling with hair loss or thinning hair when used as part of a healthy hair care regimen. Though more studies are still needed, incorporating CBD oil – whether topically or orally – may help get your hair back to looking lush and full.
