Does Smoking Marijuana Affect Hair Growth?

Does Smoking Marijuana Affect Hair Growth? 

The topic of hair growth or loss can be a very sensitive topic for many people, both men, and women. However, there are certain habits, lifestyle choices, and actions that may contribute to the growth or loss of our hair, one of which includes smoking marijuana.

There have been mixed reviews and feelings about the benefits and side effects of smoking marijuana in the last few years. This has also been because cannabis only recently became legal in certain areas in part of the world. The prior illegalization of cannabis made it hard for researchers and scientists to effectively observe the effects of marijuana on individuals. The truth remains that not very much is known about the effects of marijuana on the body both physiologically and mentally, but now that consumption has been legalized in many parts of the world, that should change soon.

As mentioned earlier, when it comes to hair growth, regular marijuana smokers have given different accounts as to how marijuana affects their hair growth. Some smokers have affirmed that smoking marijuana helps their hair grow longer and stronger, while others report that the opposite is the case for them. There is no exact explanation for the variation in reports, but this could be due to several factors and the most important is that we are all made differently. The difference in our genetic, biological, and mental makeup affects how several individuals process this substance. Other factors include lifestyle choices, diet, stress levels, among others.

Now, the big question remains, how does smoking marijuana affect hair growth? Here we’ll try to point out various linking factors between marijuana and hair growth. It should be noted that the experience of smoking marijuana is different across individuals.

1. Increase in hormone levels

Marijuana contains various chemical substances which can affect the balance of hormones in our body. One of the popular substances in marijuana is Tetrahydrocannabinol or THC which is known to increase the level of testosterone in the body. Regular smoking of cannabis can increase testosterone levels which may then lead to excess sebum production and scalp inflammation. This can lead to hair loss on the scalp or excess hair growth in other parts of the body.

Smoking marijuana can also lead to the increase of estrogen in the body which is a hormone that also helps hair growth. The right amount of estrogen in the body leads to the growth of healthy hair. However, cannabis can stimulate the glands and lead to the production of excess estrogen which has the opposite effect. High levels of estrogen in the body can have numerous effects and in women can result in irregular menstrual cycles with too much bleeding and cramps. In men, high levels of estrogen can trigger hair loss in the scalp.

2. Improves mood and stress levels

One of the most common causes of hair loss and other health issues is stress. Increased stress levels can lead to the reduction of the protein produced by the hair follicles which can hinder its growth over time. This can cause the hair to enter a phase known as telogen which is the resting phase in the hair growth cycle. Severe stress can cause the hair to break and fall off prematurely, leading to the loss of large chunks at a time. Marijuana is known to help improve mood and instantly alleviate stress. Easing the stress on the body significantly increases the protein produced by the hair, thereby increasing hair growth.

3. The absorption of smoke and other impurities

The combustion of marijuana is known to have various effects on the body. The process of smoking marijuana and the release of smoke can reduce the collagen level of the skin which can lead to premature aging. Smoke has also been observed to have various effects on the hair texture of marijuana smokers. Certain studies have shown that it can cause greying of the hair even before the individual is 30, and it can also alter the texture of the hair. How marijuana is consumed also plays a role in its effects. Using accessories such as a bong or bubbler has less harmful effects on the body in general.

4. Diet changes

It has been observed that the smoking of marijuana can affect the diet of smokers. It can lead to increased or reduced appetite in smokers, and a lack of a healthy diet can affect the body’s overall function including hair growth. It is essential to maintain a healthy diet that also includes fruits, vegetables, and lots of water which provides a balance in the body. Increased intake of chunk foods which could be triggered by marijuana can affect the functionality of the body.

5. Increased metabolic rates

Metabolism has to deal with how our bodies process food and supply energy. Smoking marijuana can lead to an increased metabolic rate which may also lead to premature aging if not balanced out. Taking lots of water, zinc, antioxidants, and other anti-aging supplements can help the body maintain this high metabolic rate without all the negative effects and improve hair growth.

There is a lot to be known and studied about the effects of marijuana on the body and how this varies across individuals. Why people respond differently to the effects of cannabis is yet to be known, but largely has to do with the fact that we are all made differently. So, smoking marijuana can have a positive or negative effect on the growth of your hair. It is advised that it be taken in moderation to avoid any side effects.