Although steroids are a taboo subject, many people across the UK take them to enhance their abilities in the gym and in certain sports. Despite the widely documented negative impacts of steroids, their illegality and negative news coverage, steroid use persists with people looking to quickly improve their physique.
Despite this, those using steroids may be negatively impacting their appearance elsewhere, with some believing steroid use to be a cause of hair loss. Carry on reading to find out, does steroid use cause hair loss?
Steroids hair loss: Types of steroids
When referring to ‘steroids’ we are often referring to anabolic steroids. Although these can be prescribed by a doctor, they are also the type used illegally for their performance-enhancing capabilities. The other type of steroids are called corticosteroids, and these are used to treat blood disorders, allergies and skin conditions.
So, can steroids cause hair loss?
Despite the differences, both types of steroids have been linked to hair loss.
Certain corticosteroids list as a possible side effect of the thinning of scalp hair. Although not a common side effect, it could have an unintended impact for some patients.
Anabolic steroids on the other hand are much more likely to lead to increased hair loss. Anabolic steroids work as a synthetic version of testosterone, this means that taking them can speed up the hair loss process for those who already have a genetic predisposition to male pattern baldness.
This is because male pattern baldness is primarily caused by producing too much of the male hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT), and it is believed that steroids can increase the production of this hormone.
Is hair loss from steroids permanent?
So, is steroid hair loss permanent? It depends. Unfortunately, continued and long-term use of steroids can in fact lead to permanent and irreversible hair loss. The good news is though, those who stop using steroids soon after noticing the impact may be able to reverse the effects.
Those who are experiencing irreversible hair loss from the use of steroids may be looking for a permanent solution. One of the only ways to rectify hair loss of this kind is via a hair transplant. Both FUT and FUE hair transplants can rectify hair loss issues in a natural way to bring back your original hairline.
Contact us today to find out more and arrange a consultation to see whether you’re a good candidate for a hair transplant procedure.
Other drugs which can cause hair loss
Steroids are not the only drugs that can lead to hair loss. Several other substances both prescription, legal and illegal have been associated with hair loss or thinning.
- Antidepressants: Certain antidepressants such as SSRIs have been linked to hair loss in certain people.
- Blood pressure medications: Beta-blockers and other medications can occasionally lead to hair loss as a side effect.
- Acne medications: Some acne medications have been associated with hair loss during treatment.
- Alcohol and recreational drugs: Although not directly linked to hair loss, substance abuse can lead to hair loss due to stress and other factors.
Lots of medications list hair loss as a potential side effect. It’s important to speak to your doctor and make note of how substances are impacting you to prevent any unwanted hair loss from becoming permanent.
Steroid hair loss: Permanent solutions with Crown Clinic
If you’re looking for a permanent solution to your hair loss issues choose Crown Clinic to provide you with the most premium quality hair transplant available. Our lead surgeon Dr Asim Shahmalak is renowned worldwide for his abilities and has even pioneered certain hair loss treatments, making him an expert in his field.
We specialise in FUE and FUT hair transplants as well as SMP for those looking for a non-invasive hair loss solution. Get in touch with us today to book a consultation and discover which of our many procedures are right for you.