Vaping and hair loss: is there a link?

Have you started vaping, but you've also noticed hair loss? It's a question that concerns many people, especially now that e-cigarettes are becoming increasingly popular. Many consider e-cigarettes to be a safer alternative to traditional smoking, but recent studies suggest that they may affect your hair health in surprising ways. This blog delves into the possible links between vaping and hair loss, from reduced blood flow to chemical and hormonal effects, and offers practical advice on how to protect your hair. It is important to understand the potential impact of e-cigarettes on hair follicles and know what you can do about it.

Vaping and hair loss: is there a link?

Vaping and hair loss: is there a link?

Have you started vaping, but you've also noticed hair loss? It's a question that concerns many people, especially now that e-cigarettes are becoming increasingly popular. Many consider e-cigarettes to be a safer alternative to traditional smoking, but recent studies suggest that they may affect your hair health in surprising ways. This blog delves into the possible links between vaping and hair loss, from reduced blood flow to chemical and hormonal effects, and offers practical advice on how to protect your hair. It is important to understand the potential impact of e-cigarettes on hair follicles and know what you can do about it.

Table of contents

What is vaping and how safe is it?

Vaping is the inhalation and exhalation of aerosols produced by an electronic cigarette or similar device. These aerosols may contain nicotine, formaldehyde, and other toxic substances, and they have not been proven to be safer than regular cigarettes. When e-cigarettes first came on the market, there was a lot of misinformation; the industry claimed that they could help smokers quit, but studies showed that nicotine concentrations in American vapes (3%) were significantly higher than in European variants (around 0.5%).

Vape liquids contain chemicals such as propylene glycol or vegetable glycerine. Although propylene glycol is safe when ingested, little is known about its long-term effects when inhaled. One study pointed to irritation of the upper respiratory tract. Vegetable glycerine can also cause breathing problems and affect liver function. Many other chemicals, from flavourings to carcinogens, are never intended to be inhaled and can damage cells in our bodies. Vaping can cause lung damage, heart problems and brain damage in young adults.

How can vaping cause hair loss?

Although direct evidence that vaping specifically causes hair loss is still limited and research is ongoing, there are several ways that e-cigarettes can impact the health of your hair. Smoking in general can cause hair loss by constricting blood vessels, damaging DNA, damaging hair follicles, accelerating ageing and affecting hormones. The same mechanisms are likely to apply to vaping.

Treatment with the Theradome ensures the growth of new, healthy hair, doubling the hair follicle size of existing hair, slowing and stopping hair loss
Improves the absorption of hair growth lotions up to 5x 192 titanium micro needles Comfortable design and easy to use
Excellent source of biotin Delicious cherry flavor Dissolves quickly

Reduced blood flow to the hair follicles

Vaping products often contain nicotine, which can constrict blood vessels. This vaping and hair loss caused by nicotine constriction reduces blood flow to the hair follicles, which is essential for healthy hair growth. Reduced blood flow means that less oxygen and nutrients reach the hair follicles, which can disrupt the natural hair growth cycle and lead to thinning hair.

Chemical impact and oxidative stress

E-cigarette liquids contain chemicals such as propylene glycol, vegetable glycerine and flavourings that are not intended to be inhaled. When these substances enter the bloodstream, they can cause oxidative stress on the hair follicles, potentially damaging the cells responsible for hair growth.

A study by the UNC Medical Centre in North Carolina showed that vaping affects the gene expression of 358 genes that play a role in fighting viruses and bacteria. Although the full implications of this are not yet clear, epithelial cells, which line the airways and are influenced by these genes, play a key role in the healthy functioning of the hair growth cycle. This suggests that disrupted health at the cellular level, possibly caused by vaping, may indirectly influence hair health.

Hormonal influences

Emerging evidence suggests that vaping may affect hormone levels, particularly those involved in the hair growth cycle. These changes may make hair follicles more sensitive to DHT (dihydrotestosterone), a hormone associated with pattern hair loss.
In addition, nicotine can stop the production of melanin, the molecules responsible for hair pigmentation, which can lead to premature greying.

Stress and addiction

Nicotine is a well-known stimulant, and vaping can lead to nicotine addiction. Stress and anxiety resulting from addiction can contribute to hair loss. Clinicians note that the behavioural component of vaping, such as its pleasant smell, easy accessibility and concealability, makes it more difficult for patients to quit, which can lead to higher nicotine intake than in smokers. Signs of addiction include cravings, vaping in smoke-free areas, panic without a vape, and having to buy a vape when you have forgotten it.

Factors that may exacerbate vape-related hair loss

Not all exposure to vaping carries the same risk of hair loss. Several factors may increase the potential impact:

  • Nicotine concentration: The higher the nicotine content in the vape liquid, the greater the potential impact on blood flow to the hair follicles.
  • Frequency and duration: Frequent and prolonged vaping increases exposure to chemicals and can have cumulative effects on the hair follicles.
  • Lifestyle factors: Poor diet, lack of sleep, dehydration, and stress can exacerbate the negative effects of vaping on hair health.

Practical tips: How to reduce hair loss from e-cigarettes

Although quitting vaping is the best way to protect your hair health, we understand that this is not always what you want. Here are some strategies to minimise the impact of vaping on your hair:

Essential nutrients for hair protection

Your hair needs specific nutrients to stay healthy, especially under the potential stress of vaping:

  • Eat iron-rich foods to improve oxygen flow to the hair follicles.
  • Increase your intake of vitamin B complex to support hair growth.
  • Include omega-3 fatty acids to reduce inflammation.
  • Ensure you get enough protein for healthy hair structure.

Optimising blood circulation

Counteract the effects of vaping on the circulatory system with these strategies:

  • Regular scalp massage to stimulate blood flow.
  • Stay well hydrated with 2-3 litres of water per day.
  • Exercise regularly to improve overall circulation.
  • Practise stress reduction techniques such as meditation.

Treatments for vape-related hair loss

If you notice signs of hair loss or thinning, there are treatments available that can help stimulate hair growth and restore your hair. These may include treatments such as Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), which stimulates blood circulation, improves cell energy and promotes hair growth. This can provide important natural support for vape-related hair loss. Also consider over-the-counter treatments with ingredients such as saw palmetto, biotin and caffeine to create a healthy environment for hair follicles. Microneedling can also help stimulate blood flow and hair follicles.

Treatment with the Theradome ensures the growth of new, healthy hair, doubling the hair follicle size of existing hair, slowing and stopping hair loss
Improves the absorption of hair growth lotions up to 5x 192 titanium micro needles Comfortable design and easy to use
Excellent source of biotin Delicious cherry flavor Dissolves quickly

The best step forward for your hair

Vaping was once seen as a safer alternative to smoking, but research shows that it can be just as dangerous for your health. The best approach is a healthy, nicotine-free lifestyle, recognising stress factors. If you are concerned about hair loss or changes in hair growth, and you use vapes, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist for personalised advice and guidance. This professional help can show you the best route to healthier hair. Although the relationship between vaping and hair loss is complex and requires further research, current findings suggest that e-cigarettes may affect your hair health. By paying attention to your lifestyle, diet and possibly considering quitting vaping, you are taking important steps towards fuller, healthier hair and a healthy lifestyle for stronger hair.

Are you looking for products that can support your hair on its journey to healthier hair? Discover our range of nutritional supplements, specialised shampoos and scalp treatments designed to stimulate hair growth and optimise the health of your hair.

-0% Quantity discount Discount Set
4x Neofollics lotion + free scalp roller - Hairgivers
4x Neofollics lotion + free scalp roller - Hairgivers
4x Neofollics lotion + free scalp roller
4x Neofollics lotion + free scalp roller
All types of hair loss, 4+1
Sale price
$154.00
Regular price
$204.00
-0% Quantity discount Discount Sold out
Revita hair growth shampoo + conditioner (205 ml) - Hairgivers
Revita hair growth shampoo + conditioner (205 ml) - Hairgivers
Revita hair growth shampoo + conditioner (205 ml)
Revita hair growth shampoo + conditioner (205 ml)
Dry hair, 2x 205 ml
Sale price
$56.00
Regular price
$69.00
-0% Quantity discount Discount
Theradome LH80 PRO laser helmet - Hairgivers
Theradome LH80 PRO laser helmet - Hairgivers
Theradome LH80 PRO laser helmet
Theradome LH80 PRO laser helmet
All types of hair loss, 80 lasers
Sale price
$1,182.00
Regular price