Hair loss and thinning are common concerns that can affect men and women across all age groups throughout the world. There are many different causes of hair loss and even more potential treatments. However, not everything works and even the treatments that are legit may not work the same way for every body. Amongst the various hair loss and growth treatment options, Melatonin has emerged as a surprising contender. Known primarily for its role in regulating sleep cycles, Melatonin is now gaining attention for its potential to stop hair loss and increase growth. In this article, we take a closer look at the science behind Melatonin’s effects on hair follicles, its connection with melanin and its how to increases hair growth. We’ll also explore the best ways to use Melatonin as a hair treatment.
What is Melatonin?
Melatonin is a hormone that is mainly produced by the pineal gland in the brain. It plays a crucial role in regulating the sleep-wake cycle, commonly known as the circadian rhythm. However, recent studies have highlighted melatonin’s broader biological functions, revealing that its benefits extend far beyond sleep regulation. Melatonin is increasingly recognised for its powerful antioxidant properties. It helps to neutralise harmful free radicals and protect cells from oxidative stress. This is a process that can lead to premature aging and various diseases, including those affecting hair health. Additionally, melatonin plays a crucial role in immune modulation, where it helps regulate the immune system’s response. Through this it helps to reduce inflammation and supports overall immune health. Crucially, research has also uncovered melatonin’s influence on hair growth and loss through its actions on the hair follicles. This suggests that melatonin may help in reducing hair loss and promoting thicker healthier growth.
Difference Between Melatonin vs Melanin
Whilst similar sounding, Melatonin and Melanin are two distinct substances with entirely different functions in the body. Melatonin is a hormone made in the brain whereas Melanin is a pigment found in the skin, hair and eyes. It is responsible for the colouration of these tissues and is secreted by cells melanocyte cells. Melanin protects the skin from UV radiation by absorbing and dissipating harmful rays whereas Melatonin influences biological rhythms and cellular protection.
Despite this, there might be some collaboration between them which further adds to confusion. Research suggests that Melatonin might play a role in melanin production and distribution potentially influencing hair colour. It is thought that Melatonin protects melanocytes from oxidative damage which helps to then preserve hair colour and prevent premature greying. Although there is a need for higher level evidence to investigate this connection between melatonin and melanin, the potential for melatonin to maintain natural hair colour is super exciting!
The Relationship Between Melatonin & Hair Follicles
Hair growth is a complex process that is driven by the hair follicle’s natural cycle. This cycle includes the anagen (growth), catagen (transitional), and telogen (resting) phases. Melatonin has been shown to affect hair follicles directly by prolonging the anagen phase and delaying the onset of the catagen and telogen phases. This effect is particularly important for those experiencing hair thinning or loss, as a longer anagen phase means more time for hair to grow. Melatonin is believed to exert its influence on hair follicles through these key mechanisms:
- Antioxidant Activity: The antioxidant properties of Melatonin protect hair follicles from oxidative stress, which can damage cells and contribute to hair loss.
- Regulation of Growth Factors: Melatonin may influence the expression of growth factors and proteins involved in hair cycle regulation. This them promotes hair follicle health and growth.
Benefits of Melatonin for Hair Growth
Two of the most common questions surrounding Melatonin are whether it can actually increase hair growth and who can it help? The evidence so far suggests that Melatonin may indeed promote hair growth, especially in cases of hair loss due to androgenetic alopecia and telogen effluvium. Here it offers some hope for those struggling with thinning or baldness where it can help promote healthier hair growth.
Topical Melatonin treatments have shown promise in clinical studies, with users experiencing significant improvements in hair density and a reduction in hair fall. Its impact on hair loss is primarily due to its ability to modulate the hair follicle cycle. Melatonin extends the growth phase of the hair cycle while delaying the transitional and resting phases. This effectively reduces the amount of hair that is shed prematurely. Additionally, melatonin’s potent antioxidant properties protect hair follicles from oxidative stress. This is a key factor in the deterioration of hair follicles that can lead to conditions like androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as male or female pattern baldness. By shielding the follicles from damage and maintaining their function, melatonin helps to slow down the progression of hair loss. Moreover, its anti-inflammatory effects can further prevent hair loss by reducing the immune system’s attack on hair follicles which is another factor in certain types of alopecia.
Melatonin Hair Treatment Options
In the UK, Melatonin is a prescription only medicine. You would need to see a medical professional such as a doctor who specialises in hair loss. They will assess your hair and recommend the appropriate treatment for you which may or may not include Melatonin. Here are some of the ways you can incorporate melatonin into your hair care routine:
- Topical Treatments: Hair loss clinic may offer custom made compound creams, foams, serums or sprays that contain Melatonin. You can apply these treatments directly to the scalp. They may also add other hair loss ingredients such as Minoxidil, Biotin or Finasteride to the formula. You would need to use your treatment consistently over at least 3-6 months before seeing noticeable results. Unfortunately, hair loss treatments are usually temporary and you would need to use in the long term to see results.
- Oral Supplements: Although oral Melatonin is primarily for sleep regulation, it may also have a positive impact on hair growth. Again these are prescription only treatments in the UK and you would need to discuss with your healthcare provider whether this is suitable for you.
- Diet: Various foods can offer a natural way to boost your body’s Melatonin levels. Tart cherries (particularly Montmorency cherries), are one of the richest natural sources of melatonin. Other sources include nuts (especially walnuts and almonds), grains (like rice, oats, and barley), other fruits (like grapes, strawberries, and tomatoes), vegetables (such as corn, asparagus and broccoli), eggs and fatty fish as well as seeds (like flaxseeds and sunflower seeds).
Risks & Side Effects
Whilst Melatonin is generally safe for short-term use, it is important to be aware of potential risks and side effects. These are especially likely to occur with long-term use, higher doses and oral forms. Common and mild side effects of melatonin include:
- Common & Mild: Drowsiness, headaches, dizziness and nausea. Some individuals may also experience vivid dreams or disruptions to their sleep cycle.
- Serious & Rare: Mood changes, anxiety, or hormonal imbalances.
Topical Melatonin for hair loss generally has better tolerance but some individuals may experience scalp irritation or allergic reactions. Since melatonin can interact with various drugs, including blood thinners, immune suppressants and diabetes medications, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before starting Melatonin supplements or treatments. This is also crucial if you have underlying health conditions or are pregnant.
There’s good reason to be excited about Melatonin’s potential as a hair loss and growth treatment. Its antioxidant properties, ability to regulate follicle cycles and possible connection to hair colour are all promising areas for its use in hair care. However, it’s important to note that Melatonin is a prescription only treatment in the UK and is not for everyone. The ability of Melatonin to increase hair growth depends on a number of factors including the underlying cause of hair loss and individual biology. Further research is necessary to fully explore the exact mechanisms of action on hair in order to better understand who would most benefit from it and the best way to use it. If you’re experiencing hair loss, always seek medical advice to diagnose underlying causes and find the best treatment options for you.
At City Skin Clinic, we are passionate about personalised skincare and hair regrowth treatments. Our online skin clinic offers safe and effective individualised treatments with prescription-strength ingredients including Tretinoin, Hydroquinone, Minoxidil, Finasteride and Dutasteride where appropriate. Our doctors treat a range of conditions like acne and scars, hyperpigmentation, melasma, skin ageing and hair loss. To start your personalised skincare plan, book a virtual video consultation or use our online consultation form. The journey towards great skin (and hair) starts here.
