Overview
What is it?
Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone primarily produced by the pineal gland in the brain. It is best known for regulating sleep-wake cycles but also plays a role in various physiological processes, including hair growth. Melatonin can be synthesized endogenously (within the body) and is also available as a supplement or topical treatment .
How does it work?
Melatonin works by interacting with specific receptors in the body, including those in hair follicles. It helps regulate hair growth cycles, reduces oxidative stress, and may counteract the effects of hormones like androgens that contribute to hair loss. Additionally, melatonin promotes the transition of hair follicles from the resting (telogen) phase to the growth (anagen) phase, which is crucial for hair regeneration .
What are the benefits?
Melatonin has shown promise in improving hair growth, particularly in conditions like androgenetic alopecia (AGA) and telogen effluvium. Studies have reported increases in hair count and density after topical melatonin application. For example, one study found a 42.7% increase in hair count and a 40.9% improvement in hair density after 6 months of use .
Effectiveness
What does the research say?
Research supports the use of melatonin for treating hair loss. In clinical studies, topical melatonin solutions have been shown to increase hair growth in both men and women. For instance, a study involving 35 men with AGA found a significant improvement in hair count and density after 6 months of nightly application. Another study in women with AGA showed an increase in anagen (growth phase) hairs from 76.3% to 85% after 6 months of treatment .
Side Effects
Mild redness
Temporary reddening of the skin where melatonin is applied.
Sensitivity
Increased sensitivity of the scalp or skin.
Itching
Itching may occur at the application site.
Burning
A mild burning sensation can sometimes be experienced.
Headache
Headaches have been reported in some cases, though rare.
Nausea
Nausea is an uncommon side effect, typically associated with oral melatonin.
Dizziness
Dizziness may occur, particularly with high doses of melatonin.
Drowsiness
Drowsiness is a common side effect, especially when melatonin is taken orally.
Evidence
Clinical Studies & Trials
[1] Natural products for male androgenetic alopecia.
This review explores natural products, including melatonin, as potential treatments for male androgenetic alopecia (AGA). It highlights melatonin's role alongside other natural compounds in improving hair growth.
View study[2] Melatonin and the Human Hair Follicle.
This paper examines the scientific evidence supporting melatonin's role in human hair growth and its effects on hair follicles.
View study[3] Complementary and alternative supplements: a review of dermatologic effectiveness for androgenetic alopecia.
This review discusses melatonin's potential in treating androgenetic alopecia, citing studies that show improvements in hair count and density with topical melatonin application.
View study[4] Melatonin in Dermatologic Allergic Diseases and Other Skin Conditions: Current Trends and Reports.
This paper highlights melatonin's role in improving hair growth in conditions like androgenetic alopecia and telogen effluvium, emphasizing its antioxidant and immunomodulatory effects.
View study[5] Clinical Studies Using Topical Melatonin.
This review discusses clinical studies on topical melatonin, showing its efficacy in increasing anagen hair counts in women with androgenetic alopecia and diffuse alopecia.
View study[6] Melatonin promotes hair regeneration by modulating the Wnt/β-catenin signalling pathway.
This study demonstrates that melatonin promotes hair regeneration by up-regulating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, accelerating the transition of hair follicles from telogen to anagen phase.
View study[7] Melatonin and the hair follicle.
This paper explores melatonin's role in hair growth, pigmentation, and its potential as a neuroendocrine regulator in hair follicle function.
View study[8] Melatonin: functions and ligands.
This review discusses melatonin's role in various disorders, including alopecia, and its potential as a therapeutic agent for hair loss.
View study