Compare the Best CBD Oil for Hair Loss in 2022

How CBD May Help With Hair Loss

One common form of hair loss is AGA (androgenetic alopecia), also known as male-pattern baldness among men⁽¹⁾. Hair is lost in a distinct pattern that typically starts above the temples. Additionally, hair may thin at the crown then progress to partial or complete baldness.

On the other hand, women who have AGA rarely experience total baldness. Their hairline does not recede either. Instead, their hair becomes thinner all over their head. 

Cannabidiol, popularly known as CBD, is a cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. The compound does not produce a psychoactive effect, unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). 

THC is the chemical constituent of cannabis (sometimes called marijuana) responsible for the euphoric high users experience.

Researchers believe that CBD may reduce the efficacy and potency of THC⁽²⁾. The non-psychoactive compound also has purported health benefits, such as antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties⁽³⁾.  

Scarring alopecia (cicatricial alopecia) develops when inflammation destroys hair follicles⁽⁴⁾. Thus, CBD’s potential anti-inflammatory properties may help with such a condition.   

Aside from CBD’s potential anti-inflammatory effect, its activity in the ECS (endocannabinoid system) may further explain how the compound may help with hair loss. 

The ECS is present in almost every part of the body. It comprises cannabinoid receptors type 1 and 2 (CB1 and CB2), enzymes, and endocannabinoids.

Endocannabinoids are endogenous ligands, which seem to have a role in the function of the immune system, mitochondria, and neurotransmitters⁽⁵⁾. 

Neurotransmitters refer to chemical messengers in the body. On the other hand, the mitochondria generate most of the chemical energy needed to power the cell’s biochemical reactions.       

Cannabinoids like CBD and THC may mimic the action of these endogenous ligands, allowing them to interact with CB1 and CB2 receptors⁽⁶⁾. 

One study indicated that CB1 receptors were expressed in a hair cycle-dependent manner in the human hair follicle epithelium⁽⁷⁾. 

The epithelium is a body tissue that forms the covering on all external and internal surfaces of the body.  

Research from the British Journal of Pharmacology mentioned that CBD may act as an antagonist at CB1 receptors⁽⁸⁾. 

An antagonist avoids a biological response by blocking the effectiveness of one or more substances⁽⁹⁾. 

CBD, for instance, may reduce the potency and efficacy of THC, which potentially acts as a partial agonist of cannabinoid receptors⁽¹⁰⁾. 

It is believed that CB1 antagonists may counteract hair loss, while CB1 agonists may help manage unwanted hair growth⁽¹¹⁾. 

Since CBD is a CB1 antagonist, the non-psychoactive compound may help with hair loss. 

Furthermore, a study mentioned that using lower doses of CBD may result in hair shaft elongation, likely due to CB1 antagonism⁽¹²⁾. 

Benefits of Using CBD for Hair Loss

In a study involving individuals with alopecia, subjects reported a 93.5% increase in hair regrowth following six months of CBD-rich hemp extract administration⁽¹³⁾. 

A randomized controlled trial from the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology reported that a six-month supplementation with omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, including antioxidants, was helpful with hair loss⁽¹⁴⁾. 

Hempseed oil, used as a carrier oil in most CBD products, contains omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids⁽¹⁵⁾.  

Meanwhile, a study from the Journal of Medicine and Life indicated that the increased MDA (malondialdehyde) levels and decreased total antioxidant levels found in the plasma samples of androgenetic alopecia patients may be indicators of oxidative stress⁽¹⁶⁾.  

Malondialdehyde levels are markers of oxidative stress. 

Oxidative stress is caused by the imbalance between antioxidants and free radicals that damage cells⁽¹⁷⁾. 

A study suggests that free radicals may damage hair follicles, decreasing hair production and pigmentation⁽¹⁸⁾. 

Like other antioxidants, CBD may interrupt free radical chain reactions by either capturing them or transforming them into less active forms⁽¹⁹⁾. 

For this reason, CBD’s potential antioxidative properties may benefit individuals who are dealing with hair loss. 

More Potential Benefits of CBD for Hair Health  

Meanwhile, a 2020 study from the journal Antioxidants mentioned that CBD may bind with amino acids, known as the building blocks of proteins⁽²⁰⁾.  

When amino acids are incorporated in a hair conditioner, they may enhance the color-retention of dyed hair and may improve bleach-damaged hair⁽²¹⁾.  

Research from Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology suggested that CBD may play a role in modulating itch response⁽²²⁾. 

CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties may also help with skin conditions like eczema and pruritus, like scalp pruritus (itchy scalp)⁽²³⁾. 

Scalp pruritus is commonly reported in individuals with cicatricial alopecia once inflammation occurs⁽²⁴⁾.  

In addition, it is believed that CBD may help reduce sebum production⁽²⁵⁾. Seborrheic dermatitis causes flaky scales, stubborn dandruff, and red skin⁽²⁶⁾.

Hair loss is closely related to seborrheic dermatitis because an increased sebum production can lead to irritation and inflammation on the scalp, causing intense itchiness⁽²⁷⁾.   

Scratching the scalp can damage hair follicles that obstruct natural hair growth, leading to hair loss⁽²⁸⁾. 

Hence, individuals with itchy scalp and greasy hair may find using CBD-derived hair care products helpful. 

CBD may also improve blood circulation. Researchers from the University College London suggested that a single dose of CBD may help increase blood flow to the brain⁽²⁹⁾. 

Meanwhile, researchers from Massachusetts General Hospital grew hair faster and thicker on murine models due to a protein that develops blood vessel growth in their skin⁽³⁰⁾.

The findings suggested that blood vessels may be an essential key to thicker hair growth⁽³¹⁾.  

Although these results are useful, some of them were derived from animal studies. Thus, further research on humans is warranted to elucidate the benefits of CBD for hair loss and overall hair health.

How to Take CBD Oil for Hair Loss

You may rub CBD oil topically on your scalp as part of your hair care routine. You may also try using CBD shampoos that target specific conditions such as dandruff, hair breakage, thinning hair, and dry scalp. Some CBD products may help with overall scalp health. 

Remember that ingredients of CBD topical products are not absorbed into the entire body, making them a safer choice⁽³²⁾. 

You may also take CBD edibles like gummies or capsules to allow the compound into your body. 

If you choose the ingestion route, your liver will perform the first-pass metabolism on CBD before getting into your bloodstream. 

First-pass metabolism is a metabolic process by which active compounds pass through the gastrointestinal system and are metabolized by the liver before entering the bloodstream. 

CBD Oil Dosage for Hair Loss

There is a significant lack of research on CBD’s efficacy for hair loss to gauge an appropriate dosage. Additionally, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) does not approve CBD as a medical treatment for hair loss. 

However, mid-range doses between 10mg to 100mg of CBD per day may be effective for inflammation, anxiety, and depression⁽³³⁾. 

A 2020 study suggested that inflammation may be elemental to male and female pattern hair loss. Thus, researchers reinforced the need to address inflammation in proposed therapeutic developments⁽³⁴⁾. 

CBD is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties⁽³⁵⁾. 

Research from the BMJ stated that alopecia may lead to psychological consequences, including depression and high anxiety levels⁽³⁶⁾. 

It is believed that CBD may have anti-anxiety and antidepressant effects⁽³⁷⁾. 

Still, it is better to talk with a healthcare professional experienced in cannabis use to know the appropriate CBD dosage for hair loss. 

How Long Does CBD Take to Help With Hair Loss?

How long CBD takes to help with hair loss depends on the route of administration used and several other factors like users’ hair types. 

CBD, when applied topically, may help decrease inflammation, itching, and sunburn⁽³⁸⁾.  

CBD topicals like shampoos and conditioners do not enter the bloodstream or become available to the entire body⁽³⁹⁾. Instead, CB2 receptors in the skin take the compound, where it is absorbed locally to reduce inflammation in a specific area. 

You may feel the effects of CBD via the topical route, usually within 15 to 30 minutes⁽⁴⁰⁾. However, if you choose the ingestion method, it typically takes 30 to 90 minutes for you to feel CBD’s effects⁽⁴¹⁾. 

How Long Will CBD Help With Hair Loss?

How long CBD will last after it starts to help with hair loss depends on its bioavailability. 

Bioavailability is the amount of a specific substance that reaches circulation in the body and provides an active effect.

Since CBD topicals like CBD shampoos are not absorbed into the entire body, CBD’s bioavailability via topical administration is zero^(42-43). 

Meanwhile, with the ingestion route, CBD’s bioavailability is between 6% and 15%⁽⁴⁴⁾. 

How to Choose the Best CBD Oil for Hair Loss 

Some CBD topical products are made for nourishing and hydrating natural hair, while others are specifically marketed to promote healthy hair growth. 

If you are contemplating using CBD oil for hair loss, finding the right one can be challenging, given the numerous CBD brands available. 

To simplify your search, here are a few pertinent pieces of information to consider when choosing the best CBD oil for hair loss:

CBD Extracts

There are three CBD extracts: full-spectrum CBD, broad-spectrum CBD, and CBD isolates. 

Full-spectrum CBD contains all compounds of the cannabis plant, including CBD and other cannabinoids, essential oils, flavonoids, and terpenes. It also has 0.3% of THC. 

Flavonoids are active compounds found in cannabis that are believed to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral actions⁽⁴⁵⁾. 

On the other hand, terpenes are the components of essential oils responsible for the aroma of cannabis⁽⁴⁶⁾. 

Broad-spectrum also contains all of the natural compounds of cannabis except for THC, while CBD isolates are made of pure CBD.

Ingredients 

If possible, always choose CBD oils and other CBD-derived hair products made from the U.S. Make sure to opt for those with natural ingredients because you will be applying the content to your hair and scalp.  

Clinical studies have identified several benefits of natural ingredients, including anti-inflammatory properties for skincare⁽⁴⁷⁾. 

Most CBD shampoos also contain essential oils. However, essential oils may cause allergic reactions in some people⁽⁴⁸⁾.  

Therefore, if you will use CBD hair products for the first time, make sure to consult your doctor first to know whether you are allergic to some of the ingredients listed.  

Extraction Method 

Carbon dioxide, ethanol, or solvent extraction are preferred to create a safe CBD product⁽⁴⁹⁾. Meanwhile, extraction methods using hexane or butane may leave harmful residues. 

Carrier Oils 

After extracting CBD from the hemp plant, CBD manufacturers infuse the compound into a carrier oil, usually coconut oil and hempseed oil. 

Most people use the terms hempseed oil and hemp oil interchangeably. However, they have significant differences.

Hemp oil (CBD oil) is an essential oil that comes from the flowers and leaves of hemp plants, whereas hempseed oil is made from the pressed seeds of hemp.

Hempseed oil is rich in nutrients and essential fatty acids, even though it does not contain CBD⁽⁵⁰⁾.  

Third-Party Lab Testing

The best way to check whether a CBD product contains what the brand says it does is to look at the COAs (certificates of analysis) and lab reports.   

The COAs or lab test results must be up-to-date and come from a trusted third-party laboratory. Therefore, ensure that the information on the COA matches the product label.  

Brand Reputation

Many CBD companies are dedicated to offering only high-quality CBD products to their customers. 

Still, make sure to research the CBD brand to verify if it is a trusted one. Read customer feedback to get more insights on the company and its products. 

Risks and Side Effects of Using CBD for Hair Loss

According to the WHO (World Health Organization), CBD has a good safety profile and is generally well tolerated⁽⁵¹⁾. 

Still, taking CBD may trigger minor side effects in some people. Some common side effects of CBD include⁽⁵²⁾: 

• Dry mouth
• Diarrhea
• Reduced appetite
• Drowsiness
• Fatigue 

Another cause for concern is the inaccuracy of the dosage and purity of some CBD products⁽⁵³⁾. 

A study from JAMA Network examined the labeling accuracy of CBD extracts sold online⁽⁵⁴⁾. Of 84 CBD products sold online that were tested, 26% contained less CBD than labeled, possibly negating any potential clinical response⁽⁵⁵⁾. 

CBD topicals are considered safer⁽⁵⁶⁾. However, some ingredients included in those products may trigger an allergic reaction in some individuals.  

Therefore, talking to a healthcare professional experienced in cannabis use is necessary. This way, they can advise you regarding the possible risks and side effects associated with using CBD for hair loss or overall wellness. 

Legality of CBD

The 2018 Farm Bill states that Cannabis sativa L. and other derivatives of cannabis with less than 0.3% THC content on a dry weight basis are considered federally legal⁽⁵⁷⁾. 

Still, the bill explicitly preserved the FDA’s authority to regulate products containing cannabis or cannabis-derived compounds under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act and section 351 of the Public Health Service Act⁽⁵⁸⁾. 

Some states have passed laws allowing recreational and medical marijuana. Nevertheless, these state laws do not alter the fact that marijuana is still listed as a Schedule I drug under federal law⁽⁵⁹⁾. 

Substances listed as Schedule I drugs have a high abuse potential with no accepted medical use⁽⁶⁰⁾. For this reason, drugs under this category may not be prescribed, administered, and dispensed under federal law. 

Since rules and regulations regarding medical cannabis are confusing, consumers must familiarize themselves with different state laws. 

Colorado is one of the states that permits recreational and medical marijuana use⁽⁶¹⁾. 

Under House Bill 21-1317, the Centennial State limits the daily purchase of marijuana to two ounces of flower and eight grams of concentrates for medical marijuana patients.  

The concentrate limit is between 18 and 20 grams daily for medical marijuana patients. 

Exceptions to the limits apply to individuals whose healthcare provider confirms in writing that the patients have a physical hardship that should allow them to exceed their daily purchase limits. 

Meanwhile, in Texas, the local government passed laws in June 2019, creating a state industrial hemp program⁽⁶²⁾.  

Under H.B. 1325, the Texas Department of State Health Services is in charge of issuing licenses for individuals who want to manufacture or sell consumable hemp-derived products.