Prevent Alcohol-Related Hair Loss

Medically Reviewed by Dr Ali, FRCP (Edinburgh), FRCP (London), MBBS, MRCS, LRCP, DCH, DRCOG, MRCGP

Can Drinking Alcohol Cause Hair Loss?

There is some evidence that alcohol may be linked to certain types of hair loss. Some studies suggest that consuming four or more alcoholic drinks per session is associated with higher rates of temple hair thinning, while complete abstinence from alcohol has been linked to crown hair loss in some individuals. However, there is no confirmed direct connection between alcohol consumption and male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia).

That said, excessive alcohol intake can contribute to hair shedding and weakened follicles due to its overall effects on the body. Here’s how alcohol can impact your hair health:

How Alcohol Affects the Body & Hair

We all know that excessive alcohol consumption isn’t good for our bodies. It can impact several essential functions, many of which are crucial for healthy hair growth.

• • 1. Alcohol Can Lead to Nutritional Deficiencies

Heavy drinking can interfere with nutrient absorption by affecting the digestive system, particularly the pancreas and liver. This can lead to deficiencies in key vitamins and minerals essential for hair follicle function and strength.

Some nutrients that are particularly important for hair health include:

• • 1. • Biotin – Essential for keratin production (the protein that makes up hair). A deficiency can cause brittle, thinning hair.
       • Iron – Needed for oxygen transport to hair follicles. Low iron levels are linked to excessive shedding (telogen effluvium).
       • Zinc – Helps regulate oil production in the scalp and supports hair follicle recovery. A lack of zinc can weaken follicles and contribute to hair loss.
       • Vitamin D – Plays a role in stimulating hair follicles. Deficiency has been associated with thinning hair and slowed regrowth.

Alcohol consumption leads to deficiencies in these nutrients, you may notice increased hair shedding, brittle strands, or slower regrowth.

• • 2. Alcohol Often Triggers Smoking, Which Can Further Impact Hair Loss

Many people drink socially, and alcohol is known to trigger smoking, even in those who don’t regularly smoke. Smoking, in turn, introduces toxins into the bloodstream that can:

• • 1. • Damage hair follicles by reducing blood flow and oxygen supply.
       • Accelerate oxidative stress, which contributes to weakened hair shafts and premature thinning.
       • Interfere with the hair growth cycle, pushing more follicles into the shedding phase (telogen phase) prematurely.

Studies suggest that smokers are significantly more likely to experience hair loss and thinning compared to non-smokers.

• • 3. Alcohol Can Disrupt Thyroid Function, Affecting Hair Growth

Heavy alcohol consumption can interfere with the thyroid gland, which regulates metabolism and hair growth cycles. Thyroid imbalances, particularly hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), can lead to:

• • 1. • Overall hair thinning across the scalp.
       • Increased hair fragility and breakage.
       • Slower hair regrowth after shedding.

While alcohol-related thyroid issues are more common in severe cases of alcohol dependency, even moderate drinking can disrupt hormone balance over time, affecting follicle activity and hair density.

• • 4. Alcohol Can Contribute to Stress-Related Hair Loss

Excessive alcohol consumption has been strongly linked to anxiety and depression, both of which can trigger stress-related hair loss conditions such as telogen effluvium.

When stress levels rise, the body shifts its focus away from non-essential functions (like hair growth) and instead prioritizes survival functions. This can result in:

• • 1. • Increased hair shedding as more follicles prematurely enter the resting phase.
       • Weakened hair strands due to hormonal imbalances.
       • Slower regrowth cycles, making hair appear thinner over time.

In some cases, chronic stress and alcohol use can even contribute to alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition that causes patchy hair loss.

• • 5. Alcohol Can Dehydrate the Scalp & Weaken Hair Strands

Alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it increases fluid loss and can dehydrate the body, scalp, and hair. Dehydration can lead to:

• • 1. • A dry, flaky scalp, which may contribute to conditions like dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis.
       • Brittle, easily breakable hair strands due to lack of moisture.
       • Weakened hair follicles, making hair more prone to shedding.

A dehydrated scalp creates an environment where follicles struggle to function optimally, which can impact hair thickness, texture, and overall health.

Other Ways Alcohol Can Impact Hair Health

Even if alcohol doesn’t directly cause hair loss, it can contribute to conditions that weaken hair follicles and disrupt the growth cycle. Some of these include:

• Rosacea – A skin condition linked to alcohol consumption that can extend to the scalp, leading to irritation and inflammation around hair follicles.
• Scalp Psoriasis – Alcohol can worsen scalp inflammation, leading to increased flaking, discomfort, and potential hair shedding.
• Poor Sleep Quality – Drinking too much alcohol can disrupt sleep patterns, which is essential for cellular repair, including hair follicle recovery.

How to Prevent Alcohol-Related Hair Loss

If you’re concerned about how alcohol may be affecting your hair, the best approach is to moderate your intake and support your body with proper nutrition and hair-friendly habits.

Here are some steps you can take:

• Limit alcohol consumption – Following recommended guidelines can help minimize negative effects on hair health.
• Stay hydrated – Drink plenty of water to counteract alcohol-induced dehydration.
• Eat a nutrient-rich diet – Ensure you’re getting enough biotin, iron, zinc, and vitamin D to support strong, healthy follicles.
• Reduce smoking – If you drink socially, try to avoid smoking, as it significantly worsens hair health.
• Manage stress – Practice relaxation techniques, exercise, or mindfulness to reduce stress-related hair loss.
• Use gentle hair care products – Harsh shampoos and chemical treatments can further weaken alcohol-affected hair, so opt for biome-friendly products that nourish the scalp.

The Bottom Line

While alcohol may not be the direct cause of hair loss, it can contribute to shedding, thinning, and weakened follicles by disrupting overall health. The combination of nutritional deficiencies, dehydration, hormone imbalances, and increased stress can take a toll on hair density and strength over time.

By making mindful choices—limiting alcohol, supporting scalp health, and maintaining a nutrient-rich diet—you can help protect your hair and promote long-term growth.

📞 Call us today at Nottingham 0115 897 6696 or London 0203 500 4604 or Schedule a Consultation Online to take the first step toward thicker, healthier hair!