CBD for Hair Growth: A Detailed Scientific Look

Key Takeaways:

• CBD may support scalp and hair health by promoting balance within the body’s endocannabinoid system and supporting overall wellness.
  
• Early research suggests potential benefits for reducing feelings of scalp tension, supporting hydration, and maintaining a healthy environment for hair growth.
  
• Results vary widely depending on individual biology, lifestyle factors, and the quality of the CBD product used.

While CBD isn’t a fix-all hair-growth treatment, there’s promising evidence that it may help create the right conditions for hair to thrive.

Here, we’ll look at what CBD is, how it works in the body, the science behind its potential impact on hair and scalp wellness, and practical ways to incorporate it into your routine.

What is CBD?

CBD is one of over 100 naturally occurring compounds called cannabinoids found in the hemp plant. Unlike THC, it doesn’t cause intoxication, but it does interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (or ECS), a complex network of receptors, enzymes, and signaling molecules.

The ECS helps regulate balance in mood, immune function, skin health, and more.* In the skin and scalp, cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2 receptors) are found in hair follicles, oil glands, and surrounding tissues. 

CBD may influence these receptors and others, like TRPV1, which are involved in sensations of comfort and hydration.*

By interacting with these systems, CBD may help maintain a healthy scalp environment as it supports the ECS in balancing oil production, supporting hydration, and soothing feelings of tension that can interfere with hair health.

What does the science say about CBD and hair health?

While CBD hair research is still developing, a few studies have explored its potential:

• A 2021 study evaluated topical hemp-derived CBD oil applied to the scalp. Some participants saw increased hair counts after several months of consistent use.
  
• Research on CBD and skin wellness has found that CBD may help support balanced oil production and support comfort in the skin. These effects could extend to the scalp.
  
• Preclinical studies suggest CBD’s interaction with ECS receptors may influence the hair growth cycle, potentially supporting the anagen (growth) phase.

Potential mechanisms for hair health support include:

• Supporting healthy blood flow to hair follicles, which is essential for delivering nutrients.
  
• Supporting balanced scalp oil (sebum) production, which helps maintain hydration without clogging follicles.
  
• Soothing scalp discomfort, which may be linked to dryness, flakiness, or environmental stressors.

It’s worth noting that most studies have been small, and more research is needed. The existing evidence is promising, but results vary, and CBD should be seen as one part of an overall hair wellness strategy.

How can CBD influence hair growth and scalp wellness?

CBD can work with cannabinoid receptors within the skin to help support water retention. When applied to the scalp, these compounds in CBD may help maintain moisture levels, keeping skin comfortable and less prone to dryness, itching, or irritation.

For those with excessively oily scalps, CBD’s interaction with sebaceous glands may help bring oil production into balance.* This is important because dryness and excess oil can affect follicle function and scalp comfort.

CBD also contains antioxidants, which help protect the scalp from environmental stressors such as UV exposure or pollution.* While these stressors don’t directly cause hair loss, they can contribute to overall scalp discomfort and affect hair’s appearance over time.

Finally, by supporting the ECS’s role in regulating local blood flow and follicle activity, CBD may help maintain the right environment for hair follicles to operate at their best.* This doesn’t mean CBD directly triggers new hair growth, but it may encourage conditions supporting the natural growth cycle.

Which type of CBD is best for hair health?

CBD can be used in different ways depending on your goals:

Topical CBD products 

Topicals such as shampoos, conditioners, scalp serums, or leave-in treatments are applied directly to the scalp and hair. These allow CBD and accompanying nutrients to work where they’re needed most. 

For best results, massage into the scalp for a few minutes to promote absorption and stimulate circulation.

Oral CBD products 

Consumable options like CBD tinctures or CBD gummies work systemically to promote relaxation, soothe stress and tension, and support overall wellness.* Since hair health can be influenced by stress levels, sleep quality, and nutrition, a well-supported body can often lead to a healthier scalp environment.

Topical and oral CBD products can be used individually or in tandem, depending on your health goals. 

How to use CBD for hair health

Use your products consistently, as changes in hair and scalp health often take weeks to notice. Make sure to follow the serving size or application instructions provided by the manufacturer.

For best results, consider pairing CBD with other healthy hair practices, like balanced nutrition, gentle hair care, and stress management.

What to look for in CBD hair products

To get the most from your investment, keep these factors in mind:

• Third-party testing : Look for lab reports verifying CBD content and confirming products are contaminant-free.
  
  
• Complementary ingredients : CBD can work synergetically with other botanicals ti further support scalp and hair health. At Sunmed, our 100% plant based Broad Spectrum CBD Hair + Scalp Oil contains calming lavender oil, hydrating apricot oil, restorative grape seed oil, and rosemary oil to help stimulate hair growth.
• Packaging : Dark or opaque bottles can help preserve CBD’s stability.
  
  
• Clean ingredients : Look for products made with natural, clean ingredients that are free of harsh chemicals, parabens, phthalates, silicones, sulfates, or artificial fragrances.

While CBD can be a valuable part of a hair wellness routine, it’s important to remember that genetics, nutrition, stress, hormone levels, and overall health all influence hair growth. We recommend combining CBD use with healthy lifestyle habits for best results.*

Consulting a dermatologist or trichologist can help you understand the root cause of hair loss, as well as the different treatment or lifestyle options available to you.

The bottom line

At Sunmed, we believe in exploring the potential of CBD through a lens of science, honesty, and accessibility. While research into CBD and hair growth is still in its early stages, what we know so far suggests it can play a role in maintaining a healthy scalp environment, which is a foundation for stronger, fuller hair.

The key is choosing quality products, using them consistently, and remembering that hair health is about the bigger picture: nutrition, stress management, and overall wellness. CBD can be one piece of that puzzle, helping you feel confident in your routine and your results over time.

*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

FAQs

Can CBD make my hair grow faster?

CBD may help support scalp health, but hair growth speed is influenced by many factors, including genetics and nutrition.*

Is CBD safe for daily use on the scalp?

Generally, yes, but always do a patch test to check for sensitivities and choose products that are third-party tested for safety.

How long before I see results from CBD hair products?

It depends on the individual, but it may take several weeks to months of consistent use before noticing changes.

Can I combine CBD hair products with other treatments?

Often, yes. CBD is generally well-tolerated, but check with a healthcare provider to ensure it’s compatible with your routine.

Sources:

The endocannabinoid system: Essential and mysterious | Harvard Health

Inhibition of human hair follicle growth by endo- and exocannabinoids | PubMed

CBD Effects on TRPV1 Signaling Pathways in Cultured DRG Neurons | PMC

Hair Regrowth with Cannabidiol (CBD)-rich Hemp Extract – A Case Series | PMC

Cannabinoids for the Treatment of Hair, Scalp, and Skin Disorders: A Systematic Review | MDPI

Cannabidiol Application Increases Cutaneous Aquaporin-3 and Exerts a Skin Moisturizing Effect | PMC

Antioxidative and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Cannabidiol | PMC