Does Vaping Cause Hair Loss?

The latest statistics indicate that as many as 9.1% of adults in the UK vape, of whom 56% are ex-smokers, and 1.7 million continue to smoke conventional cigarettes. [1]  Although there is not yet conclusive evidence linking vaping to hair loss, many experts suspect this will be confirmed.

Hair loss can occur for many different reasons. Still, lifestyle factors such as nutritional deficiencies, stress and pressure on the scalp, and habits such as high levels of exposure to caffeine, alcohol and nicotine are known to impact the way our bodies function and heal – leading to the expectation that vaping is inadvisable for those keen to prevent or slow hair loss.

In this guide, we’ll discuss the evidence available thus far and provide tips on preserving your natural hair pattern. If you would like further information, we recommend scheduling a no-cost consultation with your nearest KSL Clinic for a professional, confidential hair and scalp assessment.

Studies and Research Around Vaping and Hair Loss

Vaping has become significantly more common in recent years, largely within groups looking to quit or reduce cigarette smoking, but also within younger demographics – something health leaders are working hard to try and stamp out. [2]

Although we do not yet have enough evidence to say whether or not vaping definitively causes or accelerates the pace of hair loss, there are some pointers that strongly suggest this may be the case.

Damage to Hair Growth Caused by Smoking

Smoking is known to be detrimental to hair health and is often linked with androgenetic alopecia, [3] with 85% of male smokers affected by pattern hair loss, compared to 40% of non-smokers in the same age range. [4]

Much of the presumptions about vaping exist because this also exposes the individual to nicotine intake, although some suspect that zero-nicotine products may also be harmful.

Early research has found that chemical flavourings and liquids could cause oxidative responses and inflammation, both restricting or limiting healthy hair growth phases even in nicotine-free products. [5]

The Impacts of Oxidative Stress From Vaping 

Oxidative stress means that you have an imbalance that affects antioxidants and the free radicals they usually eliminate. That can be associated with damage to tissue and cells and chronic inflammation – all of which affect how the cells and follicles in your scalp heal and grow. [6]

Vaping is thought to cause higher oxidative stress levels, similar to exposure to pollution and other toxins. 

Vaping and Changes to Blood Flow

For hair follicles to grow, they need oxygen and nutrients that are delivered within your blood. Nicotine can create narrowing and restrictions in your blood vessels, which limits the amount of nutrients reaching your scalp and hair, which could cause thinning or greater hair loss. [7] 

Connections Between Vaping and Alopecia

There are no reports that vaping can independently cause alopecia, although clinical studies have found that smokers have 15% higher amounts of testosterone than those who do not smoke – which in turn makes them susceptible to greater levels of DHT, a hormone known to be connected to pattern hair loss. [8]

Dr Matee, KSL Clinic’s Director of Surgical Services, says ‘All of this initial data tells us that there is a compelling case to reduce vaping to help restore your hairline, limit nicotine intake to slow the speed of pattern hair loss and opt for healthier choices if you can.

In the meantime, if you are worried about hair loss or interested in exploring treatment and therapy options, please get in touch at your convenience, and we’ll arrange a good time for a consultation at your nearest clinic’.