Marijuana and Hair

Marijuana and Hair. Reviewed by the hair care experts at New England Associates®, July 2025

People have advocated for the continued legalization of medicinal and/or recreational marijuana for decades. This has led to many claims about the connections between marijuana and hair health.

Understanding Marijuana’s Components & Uses

More than half of the states in the U.S. have legalized medical marijuana in one form or another. As WebMD.com explains, “The marijuana plant contains more than 100 different chemicals called cannabinoids. Each one has a different effect on the body.”

These cannabinoids are the active chemicals in medical marijuana. They are currently being explored for their potential to treat various conditions, including:

• Alzheimer’s disease
• Appetite loss
• Cancer
• Crohn’s disease
• Eating disorders such as anorexia
• Glaucoma
• Mental health conditions like schizophrenia and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Multiple sclerosis
• Muscle spasms
• Nausea
• Pain

Research also suggests that cannabinoids might:

• Reduce anxiety
• Reduce inflammation and relieve pain
• Control nausea and vomiting caused by cancer chemotherapy
• Kill cancer cells and slow tumor growth
• Relax tight muscles in people with MS
• Stimulate appetite and improve weight gain in people with cancer and AIDS

Can Cannabis Influence Hair Growth?

Research into cannabis compounds and hair is ongoing, with much focus on Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive component. According to Healthline, some studies suggest CBD may support hair growth through its interaction with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate functions like inflammation and oil production on the scalp.

While direct research on CBD for stress-related hair loss is limited, some individuals use CBD for stress and anxiety relief. Stress is a known contributor to hair loss. However, CBD’s effects can be dose-dependent. More research is needed to fully understand its impact and optimal concentrations for hair growth, as higher doses might even affect the hair growth cycle.

Mood, Stress, and Hair Health

Beyond direct effects on follicles, many discussions about cannabis revolve around its influence on factors like mood, depression, insomnia, and stress – all of which can play a significant role in hair health, particularly hair loss.

Research suggests that Cannabidiol (CBD), a key non-intoxicating compound in cannabis, shows promise for managing anxiety, with studies indicating it may reduce feelings of stress and provide short-term relief from insomnia. For instance, resources from medical and academic institutions highlight CBD’s interactions with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which can regulate mood and stress responses. However, the overall impact of cannabis on mood and sleep can be complex; while some users report benefits, other studies indicate that higher doses of THC (the psychoactive component) can increase anxiety, and long-term, heavy use may even worsen sleep quality or mood for some individuals. Given that stress is a well-known major cause of hair loss, finding effective, safe ways to manage stress is vital for hair health, whether or not cannabis plays a role.

Potential Side Effects of Marijuana Use

As with almost any legal prescription, over-the-counter medication, or various vitamins and supplements, there are possible side effects to using marijuana. WebMD lists potential side effects that include:

• Bloodshot eyes
• Depression
• Dizziness
• Fast heartbeat
• Hallucinations
• Low blood pressure

WebMD also notes that “The drug can also affect judgment and coordination, which could lead to accidents and injuries. When used during the teenage years when the brain is still developing, marijuana might affect IQ and mental function.”

Some individuals are concerned about marijuana as a “gateway drug” that can be addictive. They also worry it may lead to using excessive amounts or moving on to stronger, illegal, and more dangerous substances.

Seeking Proven Solutions for Hair Loss

If the potential risks associated with marijuana use seem too significant for you, rest assured there are many tried and proven ways to stop hair loss and to get hair back. We invite you to set up a no-strings-attached appointment for you to come in and find out what we can do for you. If you can’t make it to one of our locations, you can order our HairStart^® products online.

Since 1982, the goal of New England Associates® has been to help people of all ages restore their hair and regain their confidence. At New England Associates®, your feelings about your hair and making the right choice to solve problems are what truly matter to us.

Make New England Associates^®
“Your First Step to a Better Looking Future!™”
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New England Associates^® is one of the only accredited Hair Replacement businesses at the Better Business Bureau^® in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Maine, and Vermont. We are also proud members of the American Hair Loss Council.