Can Alcohol Cause Hair Loss? What Happens When You Quit

Rob loves unwinding at his local pub, sharing laughs and stories over a few beers. But lately, he’s noticed something worrying: more hair on his comb each morning, and his once-thick hair is visibly thinning. He’s started to wonder—could his regular happy hour be linked to his receding hairline? Is alcohol bad for your hair, and can it actually cause hair loss? And what changes might he see before and after quitting alcohol?

The short answer is yes—alcohol can contribute to hair loss. But to really understand why, let’s look at the science behind it.

How Alcohol Affects Your Hair

Hair loss isn’t just a cosmetic issue—it can signal deeper health problems. In Rob’s case, his increased drinking may be the hidden cause. Alcohol can harm your hair in several ways:

• Dehydration: Alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it makes you lose more fluid than you take in. When your body is dehydrated, your hair can become dry, brittle, and more likely to break.
• Nutrient Loss: Alcohol irritates the stomach lining and reduces the production of gastric acid, which your body needs to absorb key nutrients like biotin and iron. Both are essential for strong, healthy hair.
• Hormone Imbalance: Drinking can disrupt hormone levels, including estrogen, testosterone, and cortisol. Hormonal shifts may interfere with the hair growth cycle and even trigger hair shedding.

The Science Behind Alcohol and Hair Loss

Research supports the connection between drinking and hair thinning. A 2018 study in the International Journal of Trichology found that alcohol can restrict hair growth by causing oxidative stress in hair follicles. Another study linked alcohol consumption to earlier and more severe male pattern baldness.

How to Protect Your Hair from Alcohol-Related Damage

If you enjoy a drink now and then, you don’t have to give it up entirely—but moderation and healthy habits can help protect your hair.

• Drink in Moderation: Follow guidelines like up to one drink per day for women and two for men.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink water before, during, and after alcohol to counter dehydration.
• Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on foods rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals—like eggs, spinach, nuts, and salmon.
• Consider Supplements: Biotin and iron may help, but check with your doctor first.
• Exercise Regularly: Physical activity improves blood flow to the scalp and helps balance hormones.
• Choose Low-Sugar Drinks: Sugary cocktails can increase inflammation, which may harm hair follicles.
• Care for Your Scalp: Try scalp massages or hydrating hair masks to support hair health.

What Happens When You Cut Back or Quit?

Reducing or stopping alcohol can lead to noticeable improvements. Your body rehydrates, nutrient absorption improves, and hormone levels stabilize. Over time, this can mean stronger hair, less shedding, and even new growth. Using tools like the Quitemate app can help you track your progress and build healthier drinking habits.

Enjoy Life—and Keep Your Hair Healthy

You don’t have to choose between socializing and healthy hair. By drinking in moderation, nourishing your body, and taking good care of your scalp and overall health, you can enjoy your favorite moments without sacrificing your hair.