Can caffeine treat hair loss?

Jun 26, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I recently did something quite serious; my close friend told me that caffeine can treat hair loss. Can caffeine treat hair loss?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Wang Xiaoyan
Caffeine has shown some auxiliary effects in treating hair loss, but it cannot serve as an independent treatment to completely cure hair loss. As a central nervous system stimulant, caffeine's role in promoting hair growth is primarily based on its ability to counteract androgens. Research indicates that caffeine can inhibit the damage caused by androgens to hair papillae, thereby promoting continued differentiation of hair follicles and stimulating hair growth. However, the anti-hair loss effects of caffeine need to be combined with other treatment methods, such as medication or lifestyle changes, and its effectiveness varies among individuals. Additionally, caffeine is usually administered topically, for example through shampoos containing caffeine, which work by direct contact with the hair roots, rather than through coffee consumption.