Melatonin for hair growth power 1 : Benefits and side effects

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Melatonin, a hormone occurring naturally in our bodies, governs our sleep and wake cycles. So, how does this relate to hair growth? We explain everything you need to know about melatonin for hair growth.

Hair loss can be caused by hygienic difficulties, genetics, hormone imbalances, or excessive use of hot styling equipment. Hair loss has several reasons, and there are numerous treatments available. Melatonin is thought to be an effective hair growth agent. It’s a natural sleep hormone that may also be good for your hair. It can be ingested or administered topically. We spoke with an expert on the effectiveness of melatonin for hair growth and how to utilize it.

What is melatonin?

Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone generated by the pineal gland in the brain. This hormone regulates the circadian rhythm, which is the body’s internal clock that governs sleep-wake cycles. Melatonin serves a variety of important functions in addition to its fundamental role in regulating sleep. It has antioxidant qualities, which allow it to neutralize damaging free radicals in the body. According to dermatologist Dr Rashmi Aderao, it has the capacity to protect cells from oxidative stress and damage.

melatonin for hair growth — Melatonin may help promote hair growth. Image credit: Adobe Stock.Because of its significance in sleep regulation, melatonin is widely available as a nutritional supplement. It is especially popular for treating sleep disorders like insomnia and preventing jet lag, which can interrupt normal sleep patterns.

How does melatonin help with hair growth?

According to a 2012 study published in the International Journal of Trichology, applying a cosmetic melatonin solution topically can help treat androgenetic alopecia, a prevalent type of hair loss. Melatonin has showed promise in the treatment of hair loss due to its multifarious features, particularly its strong antioxidant effects, according to the expert.

Melatonin for Hair Growth

Oxidative stress can worsen hair loss by causing free radicals to damage hair follicle cells, resulting in premature hair loss and weakened hair structure. Melatonin’s antioxidant qualities aid to prevent this damage by neutralizing free radicals. Thus, it protects hair follicles from oxidative stress. This preventive effect prevents hair damage and loss while maintaining hair health.

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Melatonin also helps prevent hair loss by affecting the hair development cycle. Hair follicles go through three phases: growth (anagen), transition (catagen), and shedding (telogen). Melatonin may prolong the anagen phase, allowing hair to grow for a longer period of time. Dr. Aderao explains that this minimizes the frequency with which hair enters the shedding phase, resulting in enhanced hair density and fewer hair loss.

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Melatonin works as an antiandrogen in disorders such as androgenetic alopecia, in which male hormones impact hair loss. It regulates androgen receptors on hair follicles, decreasing androgen-induced hair loss. Melatonin also affects the aromatase enzyme, which turns androgens into estrogens. It alters the hormonal balance in favor of hair preservation.

Melatonin-containing hair serum can be used to promote hair growth. Image courtesy of Freepik.

How to use melatonin for hair?

Melatonin pills are available, although it is most commonly utilized in topical formulations like serums and lotions to promote hair growth. These products are designed to be applied directly to the scalp. Choose a topical melatonin product designed exclusively for hair treatment. Apply the melatonin solution straight to the scalp, concentrating on regions with thinning or hair loss. To properly disperse the solution, use the product’s applicator or your fingertips. Gently massage the scalp for a few minutes to ensure that the melatonin is properly absorbed and reaches the hair follicles.

You can take topical melatonin once a day for several months. According to the specialist, the best time to apply melatonin is in the evening, as this corresponds to the body’s natural melatonin production cycle. This can improve therapy efficacy and absorption.

Melatonin for Hair Growth

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What are the side effects of using melatonin for hair?

Melatonin is usually regarded as safe, particularly when applied topically to promote hair health. However, as with any supplement or treatment, some people may experience adverse effects.

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Melatonin for Hair Growth

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One of the most prevalent negative effects of using topical melatonin is scalp itching. You may experience redness, irritation, or burning at the application location. Such responses are usually moderate and resolve on their own, but if they persist or become serious, consult a doctor.
Allergic responses are another possible adverse effect, though they are infrequent. You may get skin rash, edema, or difficulty breathing.

People with certain medical conditions or who are taking other medications should exercise caution when using melatonin. People who have autoimmune disorders, hormone-related tumors, or are on immune-system-affecting drugs, for example, should see their doctor before using melatonin. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should obtain medical advice before taking melatonin.Melatonin can be administered topically to increase hair growth, but follow the instructions carefully to avoid side effects. You should also follow a hair care routine and eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals that are essential for hair health.