Can Diabetes Cause Hair Loss?

One such condition is diabetes, which can negatively impact hair health, sometimes leading to permanent hair loss if not managed well. Understanding this connection is important for maintaining healthy hair.

Diabetes is a condition where the body loses the ability to respond to the hormone insulin. This leads to abnormal metabolism of carbohydrates which increases glucose levels in the blood. The glucose does not reach the cells and causes serious health problems. Diabetes cannot be cured; however, steps to manage it can help you stay healthy.

Diabetes can cause hair loss as it slows down the hair growth process. Below are the common causes of hair loss due to diabetes.

High Blood Sugar Levels

High sugar levels in the blood can damage hair tissues and restrict blood flow to the follicle leading to hair loss.

Hormones and Stress

Diabetes causes both physical and mental stress, and when this happens, the body conserves the nutrients for vital functions and non-vital functioning as hair growth gets compromised. Fluctuation in the levels of hormones can also affect hair growth and cause hair loss.

Alopecia Areata

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the hair follicle, making hair fall. It is commonly seen to occur alongside diabetes.

Hair loss due to diabetes is reversible in some cases. There are several treatments available to slow down the hair loss process. Blood sugar levels must be checked regularly to keep hair and health problems away.

You can opt for the treatments listed below:

Medications

Topical lotions like minoxidil and other hair growth serums and lotions can be used to slow down hair loss and promote hair growth. Other medications like finasteride can also be tried.

Biotin

Biotin levels must be maintained for proper hair growth. Eggs, avocado, cauliflower, chicken, fish, sweet potato and nuts must be consumed to keep your biotin levels high.

Hair Therapies

Therapies and procedures like Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy (PRP), Dermaroller and Low-Level Laser Light can also be done to promote healthy, strong hair in patients with controlled sugars.

Lifestyle Changes

A proper exercise routine and a low glycemic diet must maintain blood sugar levels. Have a proper sleep schedule and avoid habits like smoking. Procedures like PRP mesotherapy and dermaroller can only be performed on patients with controlled sugar levels.

If you are suffering from diabetes and hair loss, visit an expert dermatologist for the best treatment.