People with this disorder have a mutation in their vitamin D receptor genes, and so can’t process Vitamin D the way others can (5). This often leads to alopecia totalis, which is a total absence of body hair. Supplements may also be considered to complement your diet, but it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplements. They can help determine if supplements are necessary and guide you on the appropriate dosage.

does alcoholism cause hair loss

A study conducted from 2009 to 2011 compared the lifestyles of twins, and then looked at how lifestyle stress affected their hair loss. There’s a study that has shown alcohol consumption can inhibit intestinal biotin absorption (7). In this study, chronic alcohol feeding was found to lead to decreased SMVT protein expression in rats. The first point isn’t a common occurrence – unless you suffer from alcoholism, you shouldn’t be consuming enough alcohol to cause nutrient deficiency. But let’s take a close look at the second point and find out how alcohol can prevent the body from absorbing biotin. It’s often marketed in the beauty industry as a supplement to help hair and nail growth, but this isn’t quite the way biotin works.

Other effects of heavy alcohol use

Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol can harm hair, which requires adequate amounts of nutrients to grow and stay healthy. According to a 2018 review, chronic alcohol consumption can increase the risk of nutritional deficiencies. https://accountingcoaching.online/facing-your-powerlessness-in-addiction-recovery/ Furthermore, the harsh nature of rubbing alcohol can irritate the scalp, causing inflammation and potentially damaging hair follicles. The damage to hair follicles may impede normal hair growth and contribute to hair loss.

  • The SMVT protein, or sodium-dependent multivitamin transporter, is important for biotin uptake in the intestines (8).
  • Two key factors that can contribute to hair loss are poor nutrition and stress.
  • Even being in the same room as cigarette smoke often can damage hair follicles and impact growth.
  • If your hair loss is related to alcohol consumption, quitting drinking or reducing your alcohol intake may help to improve your hair health.

In addition, alcohol-related liver injury can go on to affect the skin and scalp. According to the National Institutes of Health, most people in the United States get adequate zinc from their diet. However, there’s a concern that adults older than 60 may be at risk for zinc deficiency, particularly if access to food is limited.

Levels of Care

They can provide personalized recommendations based on the underlying causes of your hair loss. When it comes to the topic of hair loss, many factors can come into play. One question that often arises is whether alcohol consumption can contribute to hair loss. Alcoholic Ketoacidosis StatPearls NCBI Bookshelf In this section, we’ll explore the connection between alcohol and hair loss, starting with an understanding of hair loss and debunking the myth surrounding this topic. Certain medications and medical treatments can cause hair loss as a side effect.

  • It is recommended that those who binge drink, or those with alcoholism, stop drinking entirely.
  • In addition to hormonal imbalances, excessive alcohol consumption can also lead to nutritional deficiencies, which can further contribute to hair loss.
  • This hormonal imbalance can lead to a condition called telogen effluvium, in which a large number of hair follicles enter the resting phase and eventually fall out.
  • Your healthcare provider may recommend other medications, depending on your type of hair loss.

Most hairsprays and cosmetics contain isopropyl alcohol, which leaves the hair dry. Excessive usage can lead to hair irritation and damage to the nerves. You will recover hair growth rate and thickness after quitting alcohol. However, it’s important to note that severe and prolonged alcohol abuse may cause irreversible damage to hair follicles, resulting in permanent hair loss. High levels of stress and heavy alcohol use are linked to the health of your hair. Those who binge drink or partake in excessive drinking within a short amount of time will likely experience extreme dehydration.