While many men put it down to genetics when their hair begins to fall out, they may be wrong and one common habit could be causing hair problems quicker than its time
Men often blame age or genetics when their hair starts to thin – but lighting up an cigarette could be the real culprit, experts say.
The harmful chemicals in cigarettes can fast-track hair problems including greying, thinning and even baldness, according to specialists at Go Smoke Free. Research shows smokers are up to 2.5 times more likely to go grey before the age of 30 compared to non-smokers.
That’s because the toxins in cigarette smoke damage the cells that produce melanin – the pigment that gives hair its colour. Once those cells die off, grey or white hairs can appear much earlier than expected.
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Smoking reduces blood supply slowly starving hair follicles
But it doesn’t stop there. Smoking also reduces blood oxygen levels as the carbon monoxide displaces oxygen in our blood which leads to your hair follicles starving from the nutrients it needs. Experts refer to this as “internal suffocation” of the scalp can make hair brittle, thin and prone to breakage.
Cigarettes can cause inflammation on the scalp
The toxins can also inflame the scalp, preventing new growth and worsening conditions like dandruff or psoriasis. Over time, follicles can enter a “resting phase” too soon – accelerating male or female pattern baldness in those already predisposed to it.
Weaker, dull hair
And it’s not only hair growth, even existing strands aren’t safe. Cigarette smoke weakens the protein structure of hair, making it dull, brittle and vulnerable to split ends. However, this isn’t the type of damage that can be repaired with treatments.
Lower confidence with hair loss
Experts warn this isn’t just about health, but confidence too. Men often link their hair to self-image and masculinity and usually expect hair loss in their 40s or even later, meaning premature thinning or greying can dent confidence in relationships, careers and everyday life.
A spokesperson for Go Smoke Free added: “It’s common knowledge that quitting smoking brings huge benefits for your overall health, but for men who are concerned about thinning hair or hair loss, this should be an extra motivator. Giving up smoking could help you protect the health of your scalp, slow down hair thinning and balding, and keep your hair looking fuller for longer.”