Hair loss is a common concern with a wide range of possible causes, whether it’s sudden patchy loss due to autoimmunity or gradual thinning related to hormones and genetics. While conventional treatments often focus on topical or pharmaceutical solutions, many individuals are seeking natural, evidence-informed options to support healthy hair growth.
At Bronte Wellness Boutique, we explore how therapies like acupuncture can fit into a broader, holistic treatment plan for hair loss. In this article, we’ll look at two specific types of hair loss: Alopecia Areata and Androgenetic Alopecia. We’ll also review what current research says about acupuncture’s role in each condition, and how this time-tested therapy may help reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and restore balance in the body
Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune condition that causes the body’s immune system to mistakenly attack the hair follicles, leading to hair loss. This condition usually results in sudden, smooth, round patches of missing hair on the scalp.
Acupuncture has shown promising results in supporting hair regrowth in cases of AA. In a small randomized controlled trial conducted by Zu et al. (2011), researchers compared the effects of acupuncture to conventional drug therapy, which included cystine tablets, vitamin B1, and topical Minoxidil. The study found that the acupuncture group experienced both a higher overall effectiveness and a greater curative rate than those receiving drug therapy. These results suggest that acupuncture may be a valuable option in the treatment and management of hair regrowth in AA. Further supporting this, a case report by Wu et al. (2020) documented noticeable hair regrowth after three months of consistent acupuncture treatments, with results maintained for at least two months after treatment ended. Additional case reports have echoed similar findings, suggesting that acupuncture may play a supportive role in managing AA.
While research on acupuncture for AA is still emerging, the current evidence is promising. Acupuncture may serve as a supportive addition to a comprehensive treatment plan that includes red light therapy, targeted supplementation, and diet and lifestyle modifications. It is also considered a low-risk therapy compared to conventional first-line treatments such as topical or intralesional corticosteroid injections, making it a valuable option for those seeking a more natural, whole-body approach to care.
Androgenetic Alopecia
Androgenetic alopecia (AGA), more commonly known as male or female pattern hair loss, is a common form of hair loss influenced by hormonal and genetic factors. It occurs when hair follicles gradually shrink and weaken due to the effects of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a byproduct of testosterone. Over time, this causes the hair to become thinner, shorter, and finer, eventually leading to reduced or halted hair growth. In females, AGA typically presents as diffuse thinning along the hair part or at the crown of the head. In males, it more commonly appears as a receding hairline or thinning at the crown.
Currently, there is no direct clinical evidence supporting the use of acupuncture for AGA. However, acupuncture may still offer supportive benefits as part of a broader, integrative approach to treatment. The exact cause of AGA is not fully understood, though several theories have been proposed. In a 2017 article, author Robert English presents a hypothesis that dihydrotestosterone (DHT) may drive an inflammatory response triggered by chronic scalp tension in genetically susceptible areas. This may contribute to dermal sheath thickening, perifollicular fibrosis, and scalp calcification, factors believed to play a role in hair follicle miniaturization and hair loss.
While not studied specifically for pattern hair loss, acupuncture has been shown in various studies to reduce inflammation and may also help relieve chronic scalp and muscle tension—similar to its demonstrated benefits in treating tension-type headaches, as shown by Zheng et al. (2022). Although more research is needed, acupuncture may serve as a complementary therapy alongside other treatments to support scalp health and overall well-being. What other therapies are available for male and female pattern hair loss? Explore our companion article: Naturopathic Medicine and Hormone-Related Hair Loss to learn about naturopathic treatment options that support hair health from the inside out!
How Can Acupuncture Support Hair Growth Overall?
Looking at evidence in a broader scope, acupuncture can support hair growth through a variety of mechanisms:
- Improving blood flow to the scalp – delivering more oxygen and nutrients to hair follicles
- Relieving scalp and muscle tension – releasing muscle tension and improving circulation
- Regulating the nervous system and stress response – supporting stress-related hair loss
- Reducing inflammation – reducing damage to hair follicles
Ready to Support Healthy Hair?
If you’re experiencing hair loss and looking for a gentle, whole-body approach, acupuncture may be a valuable addition to your treatment plan. At Bronte Wellness Boutique, our team of naturopathic doctors and holistic practitioners can help you uncover the root causes of hair loss and create a personalized strategy for lasting results.
Book a complimentary consultation today to learn how acupuncture and naturopathic care can support your hair and overall well-being.
Resources
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11726-011-0500-x
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1003525720301215?via=ihub
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0306987717310411
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8710088/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35732505/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S096522992500024X