Does exercising and sweating affect the hair?
Disease description:
I usually enjoy exercising, and I tend to sweat a lot during physical activity. Recently, I noticed increased hair loss—could this be related to sweating from exercise? Could it potentially have any negative effects on my hair?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Wenmin
In general, exercise-induced perspiration has a certain impact on hair.
Physical activity and sweating are natural body cooling mechanisms; moderate sweating can promote blood circulation in the scalp, which helps maintain healthy hair growth. In addition, components of sweat such as lactic acid can, to some extent, inhibit excessive secretion of sebaceous glands, helping to control oiliness for individuals with oily hair.
However, if sweat is not promptly washed off and remains on the hair for prolonged periods, it may cause the hair to become oily, tangled, and even affect hair health and appearance. It is recommended to thoroughly wash the hair and scalp using a mild shampoo to maintain scalp cleanliness and health. Additionally, regular deep cleansing and appropriate hair care measures, such as using conditioner or hair masks, can further protect the hair from damage caused by sweat and other external factors.
It is also advisable to choose breathable headbands or hats during exercise to help reduce direct contact between sweat and the scalp. Maintaining good personal hygiene practices and avoiding sharing towels or other personal items can help reduce the risk of scalp infections.
