Do Steroids Cause Hair Loss?
The use of steroids has always been a controversial topic among the general public, especially since there are so many case studies linking steroids with a number of health issues. Some studies have even linked steroids with hair loss because of how they can alter a person’s testosterone levels. The guide below aims to put the matter to rest by offering answers to some of the most important questions related to steroids and hair loss.
Most Important Findings
| Do Steroids cause hair loss? | Depends on the steroid |
| Types of Steroids | Anabolic, Corticosteroids |
| What to do? | Minoxidil, hair transplant... |
Do Steroids Cause Hair Loss?
To give you the short answer first: It depends on the type of steroids you are using. There are two major types of steroids prescribed by doctors: Corticosteroids and anabolic steroids.
While there have been reports about certain corticosteroids causing hair thinning, anabolic steroids are the more likely suspect when it comes to hair loss. Anabolic steroids are simply synthesized testosterone supplements given to athletes and gym-goers to increase muscle mass and enhance athletic performance.
They provide a boost to your testosterone levels, which could stimulate the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in your body. The major hormone responsible for androgenetic alopecia in men. There is also evidence to suggest that anabolic steroids can increase your androgen levels. Which can accelerate hair loss in men who already have an existing condition.
On the other hand, only certain corticosteroids, like prednisone sodium phosphate, have been linked with hair loss. You can read all about it in the report made by the FDA, which mentions the thinning of scalp hair as a possible side effect of corticosteroid consumption.
Thus, the evidence behind corticosteroids directly causing hair loss isn’t sufficient enough. However, anabolic steroids seem to be the major culprit behind hair loss.
- Free
- Fast
- Non-binding
| Anabolic Steroids | Corticosteroids |
|---|---|
| Uses: Anabolic steroids are a synthetic version of testosterone used to boost testosterone levels. Mainly used by athletes to enhance athletic performance and increase muscle mass. | Uses: A class of steroid hormones developed naturally in the adrenal gland, corticosteroids are prescribed to treat skin conditions, blood disorders, allergies and inflammatory disorders. |
| Side Effects: Continued use may cause hormonal imbalances, hair loss, cardiovascular issues, liver damage and psychological issues like mood swings, aggression and irritability. | Side Effects: Continued use may cause slight hair thinning, weight gain, hypertension, mood swings, irritability and anxiety. |
What Else Can I Do Against Hair Loss?
If taking steroids is a regular part of your life, then you may have to start yourself on some hair loss medication as well. The FDA has approved both minoxidil and finasteride as subscription medications for treating hair loss.
However, if you feel your hair loss is progressing too quickly, it may be wise to start on stronger medication like dutasteride. But make sure you consult your dermatologist first, as the FDA has not approved dutasteride for treating hair loss as of yet.
Alternatively, if you are looking to get back the hair you have already lost and promote new hair growth, you could opt for a full hair transplant. Having said that, you may still have to continue with the medication to counterbalance the effect of the steroids.
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