Stress, hormones, poor diet — all of these can lead to hair loss. But did you know that medication could cause your hair to fall out, too? Sometimes, medications interrupt the normal cycle of hair growth, which results in hair loss. This can have an impact on your appearance and lower your self-esteem. Here are three common types of medication that cause hair loss.
- Acne Medications
Acne medications that include vitamin A can result in temporary or permanent hair loss [1]. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that builds up in your system. When your body is unable to expel excess amounts of vitamin A, you might experience hair shedding.
Some people who take acne medication notice that their hair grows back once they discontinue their treatment. For others, hair loss can be permanent.
- Birth Control Pills
Like acne medications, birth control pills can cause hair loss in women. This is because these pills contain androgens which increase hair shedding. Some women can avoid this problem by using anti-androgenic contraceptive pills, which reduce the risk of hair loss. “Birth control pills cause the hair to move from the growing phase to the resting phase too soon,” says Healthline [2]. “This form of hair loss is called telogen effluvium. Large amounts of hair can fall out during this process.”
- Antibiotics
Antibiotics cure a wide range of conditions. However, these drugs can cause hair loss when you take them for a long period of time. Antibiotic and antifungal medications reduce hemoglobin — a protein that transports oxygen in the blood — and vitamin B levels in your body, which can cause your hair to shed and fall out [3].
You might want to take a vitamin B supplement when taking antibiotics in order to prevent hair loss
These are just three common medications that cause hair loss. If you experience hair shedding after taking a particular medication, talk to a medical professional or find out more information about hair restoration and replacement.
If you’re experiencing hair loss due to medications or for any reason we can help. At Genesis II, we offer every proven hair replacement service custom designed to your individual hair loss needs. To schedule a free consultation call us at (315) 458-1074 or to contact us via email click here.
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Sources:
[1] https://www.healthline.com/health/medications-that-cause-hair-loss#medications-list
[2] https://www.healthline.com/health/birth-control/birth-control-and-hair-loss
[3] https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-187704/Hidden-dangers-hair.html
