Diabetes Hair Loss: Causes, Signs, And Treatments That Work

 

Diabetes hair loss occurs when your hair growth cycle slows down, blood vessels are damaged, and hormonal imbalances weaken hair follicles from within. It’s the high blood sugar levels, stress, and autoimmune responses, such as alopecia areata, that can cause hair thinning on your body. 

However, you can reverse this kind of hair shedding and regain your luscious locks with effective diabetes management. The key is to improve blood circulation, control and monitor blood sugar levels, and use advanced, targeted hair-loss treatments for diabetes (such as Minoxidil and plasma-rich platelet therapy) to promote hair growth.

Diabetes, as a chronic condition, is quite demanding. Managing diabetes-induced hair loss can add to the stress. But with early care and consistency, you can slow down hair fall and promote hair regrowth. So if you need answers to questions like "Does diabetes cause hair loss?" or "How to stop hair loss from diabetes?" keep reading this blog. 

Understanding diabetes and its impact on the body

Having a sweet tooth is a double-edged sword – you cannot have enough sweets, and you also must be careful about your blood sugar levels, more so if you are diagnosed with diabetes. 

We all know how digestion works. Your body breaks down the food you consume into sugar, which is then released into the bloodstream. After glucose is absorbed, blood sugar eventually rises, signalling the pancreas to release insulin, allowing glucose to enter cells and produce energy.

However, when you are diagnosed with diabetes, your body doesn’t make enough insulin and doesn’t use it well either. Over time, your cells stop responding to insulin, causing more blood sugar to remain in your bloodstream, leading to a spike in glucose levels. While diabetes does impact your vision, kidneys, and heart, you would not think of associating it with hair loss. 

But the truth is, diabetes can affect your hair more than you realise.

So, if you’re wondering - does diabetes cause hair loss, or whether it is possible to control both the condition and the resultant hair loss, read on.

Does diabetes cause hair loss?

Diabetes deals with many complications, such as nerve damage, issues with blood circulation, and impaired healing. But it’s not just your internal organs that are being affected; diabetes can disrupt your hair growth cycle and hair follicles as well. 

How diabetes affects the hair growth cycle

Your hair grows through a full-blown repetitive cycle.

• The anagen (growth) phase is the longest, during which the hair actively grows up to 1 centimetre per month. This phase lasts for 2-6 years. At any given time, around 85-90% of hair follicles are in the growth phase.
• The catagen phase marks the shift from the growth phase to the resting phase and lasts about 2-3 weeks. About 1-3% of hairs are in this phase when the growth stops, and the follicles shrink.
• The telogen phase is the resting phase – when there is no hair growth, but there is no falling out either. About 10% of your hair is in the telogen phase at a given time. This is also the phase when new hair starts to form in the follicles that have just released hair during the catagen phase.
• Finally, the inactive or dead hair sheds in the exogen phase. This is simply an extension of the telogen phase. Brushing or washing your hair can further accelerate shedding.

However, this hair loss is not just restricted to your scalp. You can lose hair on your arms, legs, and other parts of your body.

Diabetes disrupts this process and slows hair growth.

Signs of diabetes hair loss

What are the early symptoms of diabetes hair loss? You may experience a general thinning of hair across the scalp, unlike the specific bald patches seen in Telogen Effluvium. Here are some early signs of diabetes hair loss to watch out for -

• Say goodbye to dense hair. You’ll see your strands visibly grow thinner and more limp.  
• Once your hair falls out, the regrowth following that is slow 
• Find clumps of strands getting stuck in your comb or drains while brushing and washing
• Severe hair fall can also lead to bald patches, which pave the way for alopecia areata

Therefore, it is important to consistently maintain your hair and be on the lookout for any change in the hair growth pattern or texture. These diabetes symptoms, such as hair loss, when detected early, can be managed in time. 

Causes of diabetes hair loss

If you think high blood sugar levels cause diabetes hair loss, that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Several factors contribute to hair loss in diabetes. So, be observant so you can nip this issue in the bud. 

• Poor blood circulation to the scalp

When your blood vessels retain high glucose levels, it can cut off blood circulation to the scalp. Therefore, when circulation, the very lifeblood of hair follicles, is compromised, it starves the scalp and hair of what it needs. Hence, they begin to weaken, slow hair growth, and cause hair loss.

• Hormonal imbalance

Your hormones carry out several bodily functions, one of which is hair development. Stress, lifestyle changes, and illnesses – any of these factors can disrupt hormonal balance, leading to more hair falling out than normal. 

Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), thyroid hormones, and elevated levels of estrogen and progesterone lead to severe hair loss. But insulin resistance, especially in conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and diabetes, can trigger androgen production, which can cause hair thinning. 

• Autoimmune conditions (Alopecia areata)

Type 1 diabetes, once called insulin-dependent diabetes, is an autoimmune condition in which the pancreas produces little to no insulin. Here, the body’s own immune system (which, otherwise, fights harmful bacteria and viruses) destroys the insulin-producing (islet) cells in the pancreas.

Alopecia areata mistakenly targets hair follicles, leading to patchy hair loss. This hair condition often accompanies type 1 diabetes since both are similar in nature, that is, they are autoimmune disorders. 

• Inflammation

The predicament with prediabetes or diabetes is that it comes with low-grade inflammation, which can obstruct the natural hair growth cycle, damaging hair follicles. Now that these follicles are impaired, they no longer produce hair as efficiently, causing excessive shedding. 

Also, when your body is constantly dealing with long-term high blood sugar (hyperglycemia), the immune system can go into overdrive, leading to inflammation around the hair follicles. In this case, the inflammation doesn’t just stop at hair loss; it can lead to additional health issues, such as skin irritation and increased susceptibility to infections. 

• Nutritional deficiencies

Since high blood sugar damages blood vessels, it further limits the delivery of vital vitamins and minerals to the scalp, which are essential for the hair growth cycle.

Nutritional deficiencies can adversely impact hair structure and hair follicles. Diabetes can also impair the body’s ability to absorb zinc, which plays a crucial role in hair repair, or iron.

People with diabetes often have low biotin levels. As insulin levels are low, more biotin is required to help with glucose metabolism, improve glycemic control, and prevent nerve damage (peripheral neuropathy) in people with diabetes.

• Stress and cortisol levels

Neither diabetes nor stress directly leads to hair loss. However, they aggravate hair fall and indirectly contribute to it. High cortisol levels push follicles into the resting (telogen) phase, which can lead to hair fall. 

Elevated cortisol levels can also cause Trichotillomania, a condition characterised by an irresistible urge to pull hair from the scalp or other parts of the body.

While stress makes you feel dull, it makes your existing hair feel less full and vibrant.  

Female diabetes hair loss: How is it different?

Does diabetes cause hair loss in women? The answer is a resounding yes. Both men and women are prone to this chronic condition and hair loss in the form of androgenetic alopecia. But in women, high blood sugar levels that damage blood vessels, thyroid disorder, high androgens and hormonal imbalance – all these factors push the hair to the telogen phase, causing Telogen Effluvium. 

Several factors cause female diabetes hair loss -

• Thyroid

Well-balanced hormones stimulate hair growth, whereas any disruption in them can cause hair shedding and loss. Thyroid hormones in women are one example of hormones that regulate metabolism and hair growth. An underactive (hypothyroidism) or overactive (hyperthyroidism) thyroid can cause severe hair loss.

• PCOS

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) in women lead to high levels of testosterone, irregular menstruation, and infertility. Women with PCOS also experience insulin resistance, that is, the insulin produced is not used effectively. This increases the risk of type 2 diabetes and is also a primary reason behind excessive hair loss. 

• Gestational diabetes

Pregnant women often have gestational diabetes. Placental hormones hinder the mother’s insulin functions, causing a glucose buildup. The resulting high blood sugar levels can affect blood circulation, further causing hair loss. 

Diabetes hair loss treatment options

It is important to remember that while you want to manage your blood sugar levels, you also want to preserve your hair’s vitality. So, how to stop hair loss from diabetes? Follow these steps to ensure you can balance both. 

• Blood sugar management

Your first line of defence against diabetes hair loss is to manage and regularly monitor your blood sugar levels.

• Medications

If alopecia areata is the primary cause of your hair loss, you can opt for minoxidil (also known as Rogaine), available in 2% and 5% concentration. The liquid or foamy solution of this medication is applied to the affected scalp. Although minoxidil was originally used as a vasodilator to treat high blood pressure, it is also used to boost blood circulation and facilitate hair growth. 

FDA-approved oral finasteride (also called Propecia) is primarily suitable for men with male pattern baldness and, in some cases, post-menopausal women.

Ensure you take your diabetes medications as prescribed daily and without fail. Do not make any changes to your doses or prescription without consulting your doctor. 

You can also resort to hormone-regulating supplements, for instance, saw palmetto to control DHT, or adaptogens like ashwagandha to balance hormones and reduce hair fall. 

• Nutritional supplements

A nutrient-rich diet can help you stay healthy and also promote hair growth. Include:

• Foods containing Omega-3 fatty acids, such as nuts, salmon, and seeds.
• Protein-rich foods, like fish, lean meats, beans, legumes, and low-fat dairy products.
• Foods rich in biotin include eggs, oats, sweet potatoes, avocado, cauliflower, nuts, and salmon.

• Advanced treatment options

Today, medicine has advanced to the point where you can slow down hair fall or even grow back your hair. If you’re facing severe hair loss, you can resort to these diabetes hair loss treatments -

• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy is a non-surgical treatment that stimulates hair growth using your blood’s natural healing properties. 
• Low-Level-Laser Therapy (LLLT) uses varying wavelengths of light to stimulate hair follicles and boost hair density. 

How early intervention helps 

Healthy lifestyle habits to protect and preserve your hair

All you need is these healthy lifestyle practices that create a favourable environment for your scalp health and your blood sugar. 

• Moving for at least 30 minutes of active exercise can improve blood circulation throughout the body. 
• Practice mindfulness, yoga, or meditation to relieve stress. 
• Sleep adequately for 7-8 hours to refuel your energy levels.
• Avoid sulphate- and paraben-free shampoos that harm your hair. 
• Massaging your scalp is the best way to boost circulation. Oils like rosemary and castor oil have a proven track record of boosting hair growth, especially when applied with a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba.
• Avoid harsh hair treatments or heat tools that can damage hair. 
• Wet hair needs a special kind of treatment. After a shower, the hair follicles are more prone to breakage. So, use a microfiber towel to gently pat-dry your wet hair. Use a wide-toothed comb to detangle your hair. 
• Avoid tight ponytails, buns, or hairstyles that tug at your roots. Instead, tie your hair into a loose bun or braid.
• Say no to smoking, as it may damage blood vessels, further limiting blood flow to hair follicles. 

Diabetes and hair loss share a complicated relationship. But now that you have an insight into how they both are interrelated, you can proactively balance your blood sugar levels while also managing and caring for your hair. Traya’s Ultimate Hair Supplements Combo can support the nutritional needs of your hair with the potency of Ayurveda and Dermatology. It is packed with 20+ herbs and nutrients to help restore your hair health.

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. Is diabetes hair loss reversible?

Like patterned hair loss in the form of androgenetic alopecia or lichen planopilaris, you may wonder – Is diabetes hair loss reversible? It is, in fact, reversible, and your hair can grow back.

2. Does insulin resistance affect hair health?

Yes, insulin resistance can lead to hormonal imbalances that may cause hair thinning or loss.

3. Can your hair texture differ with diabetes?

Your hair is primarily made up of protein. Fluctuations in blood sugar can affect your hair's protein structure and moisture balance, which is reflected in your hair texture. It can make it brittle, dry, frizzy, or rough. 

4. When should you see a doctor?

Consult a doctor if you observe these issues -

• Continued hair loss even after taking medications
• Patches of bald spots on the scalp
• Peripheral artery disease causing hair loss on the legs 
• Hyperglycemia or high blood sugar levels 

References:

1. https://dermnetnz.org/topics/hair-loss
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499948/