Methamphetamine, commonly known as crystal meth, is an addictive substance with potentially devastating side effects. Commonly abused for its ability to produce feelings of euphoria, meth has an equally notorious reputation for destroying people’s lives through its adverse health effects. Hair loss is among the many potential outcomes of prolonged use of crystal meth.
Hair loss caused by crystal meth use is typically diffuse or affects the whole scalp rather than particular areas. People often describe this as a “shower-drain effect.” They may experience hair thinning that appears almost patchy at first but becomes generalized as the individual’s drug abuse continues. Hair loss typically occurs within two to four months after regular drug use begins, but in some cases, it can happen within a matter of weeks.
In addition to physical health issues, methamphetamine users may suffer significant mental health issues. Severe depression, paranoia, and anxiety are common among users and are often linked to extreme stress levels caused by addiction. Consequently, psychological stress from substance abuse is often cited as one of the potential causes of hair loss due to meth addiction.
Alopecia: Causes Of Hair Loss in Meth Users
Meth is a common stimulant known to catalyze anxiety. Users tend to get nervous and develop fidgeting habits, such as pulling out one’s hair when taken in habitually. This, in turn, damages the follicle as it’s the anchor to the scalp. Over time pulling out one’s hair may lead to permanent hair loss. With that in mind, let’s look at other factors that may cause hair loss in meth users
Hair Loss Caused by Mental Stress
One way that meth causes hair loss is through increased mental stress. In a study from 2008, scientists from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) examined how meth affects the nervous system and found that it can catalyze anxiety in habitual users. This can lead to nervous, fidgeting habits, which often include picking at one’s skin or pulling out hair. The more often hair is pulled out. The more damage is done to the follicle: its anchor to the scalp.
Lowered Immunity
Meth use lowers your immunity, making you more susceptible to developing skin conditions such as psoriasis, which can lead to hair loss. Lowered immunity can also cause other underlying conditions to surface or make you more susceptible to catching other illnesses or disorders.
Vitamin Deficiencies
The drug use itself can cause vitamin deficiencies that may lead to hair loss. Vitamin deficiencies can cause more than just hair loss, though. If severe enough, it can lead to other disorders that can be just as devastating.
Poor Hygiene and Irritation
Poor hygiene due to addiction can also cause alopecia. Those using meth often become negligent with their hygiene. Users may not wash or brush their hair. This means that dead skin cells and stray strands are not regularly removed, which can result in scalp irritation, dandruff, itching, and damage to the hair follicle. Over time, this results in alopecia.
Chemical Changes in the Body
Finally, prolonged meth use can cause chemical changes in the body. These chemical changes may occur in the organs or within the body’s cells. When a person’s organs are under this stress, they cannot maintain normal processes. This is why it is common for those undergoing severe stress – or whose organs are damaged – to shed hair. It’s not just hair loss; ongoing substance abuse may cause damage to keratin, the protein which makes hair strong, healthy, and shiny. Hair with damaged keratin is prone to breaking off or thinning.
Treating Hair Loss Caused by Meth Abuse
Here are various ways that can be used to treat hair loss caused by meth abuse.
- Medication – A doctor may prescribe medications such as nutrition supplements to help restore some of the lost hair. Hair growth stimulation therapies and laser therapy could also be used. On the flip side, a hair transplant can also replace lost hair.
- Stress and Anxiety Relief – Medication and counseling may help reduce the effects of stress and anxiety on the body and aid in hair regrowth.
- Using Specialized Shampoos and Conditioners – One can also use specialized shampoos and conditioners that may nourish the scalp and promote healthy hair growth.
It is essential to recognize that hair loss due to drug abuse is not permanent, and treatment options are available. Taking care of yourself and following your doctor’s instructions can help you manage this condition and regain a full head of hair. If you or a loved one suffers from hair loss due to meth use, seek professional help immediately to discuss treatment options and begin the healing process.
Help for Meth Addiction
Your journey to sobriety starts at Defining Wellness Centers. At our rehabilitation facilities, we understand that addiction does not form overnight and recovery takes time and patience. To learn more about how we can help you or your loved one access treatment in a caring and supportive environment, give us a call today!
