Debunking the Myth: Does working out cause hair loss?
Hair loss is a common concern for many individuals, and there are various factors that can contribute to this condition.
While some theories propose exercise as a cause, recent research and expert opinions indicate that exercise could actually be beneficial for hair health.
Regular exercise offers numerous health benefits, including potential improvements to overall hair health.
For more information about does working out cause hair loss, continue reading the article.
Does exercise cause hair loss?
No solid evidence suggests that exercise is a direct cause of hair loss.
Regular exercise is associated with various health benefits and does not directly lead to hair loss.
The American Hair Loss Association suggests a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, can prevent hair loss.
Regular physical activity, yoga, and meditation have been found to promote hair regrowth in individuals experiencing post-COVID-19 Telogen Effluvium, a temporary hair loss condition.
Maintaining an active and balanced lifestyle may promote better overall hair health and reduce the risk of excessive hair loss.
However, excessive exercise and overtraining can disrupt the hair growth cycle, sometimes leading to hair loss.
During exercise, the body releases stress hormones like Cortisol and Adrenaline.
This can speed up the hair growth cycle, causing hair follicles to enter a resting phase sooner.
This can sometimes result in hair loss.
“Too much of exercise results in early entry of hair into the telogen phase. When the body is subjected to extreme stress unusually high number of hair prematurely enter a phase of rest, called the telogen phase. These hair begin to fall, causing a heavy hair fall.”
Dr. Manoj Khanna (cosmetic and hair transplant surgeon)
Studies on exercise and hair loss
The two studies can help in understanding the connection between exercise and hair loss in females and males.
Study 1
A study examined the exercise habits of 592 individuals with Androgenetic Alopecia (AGA), a common form of hair loss.
The results showed that AGA patients exercised more frequently than the general population, particularly in low-intensity exercise.
This association was observed regardless of a family history of AGA.
The study suggests that exercise does not directly cause hair loss.
Still, it highlights that individuals with AGA may be more inclined towards exercise.
Study 2
In another study, researchers examined how exercise affected the symptoms and progression of hair loss in individuals with AGA.
They found that after six months of exercise, the AGA patients who participated in non-life sports experienced significant improvements.
They had reduced scalp itching, scaling, and greasiness.
Their symptoms of anxiety and depression were relieved, and their sleep quality improved.
These findings suggest that exercise can positively affect the well-being of individuals with AGA, which may contribute to better hair health.
Understanding the studies
Based on the two studies, regular exercise does not directly lead to hair loss.
On the contrary, exercise has the potential to benefit hair health.
Engaging in moderate-to-high-intensity exercises, specifically aerobic exercises, may help slow progression and improve symptoms associated with Androgenetic Alopecia.
The type, frequency, and duration of exercise were identified as essential factors in improving AGA.
Takeaway
No solid evidence supports the claim that exercise directly causes hair loss.
Regular exercise is associated with various health benefits and does not directly lead to hair loss.
Maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle, which includes regular exercise, may even contribute to preventing hair loss.
However, excessive exercise and overtraining can disrupt the hair growth cycle and may lead to hair loss.
It’s essential to find a balance and avoid extreme exercise routines.
Overall, exercise can benefit hair health, but moderation is key.
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