Hyaluronic acid is a well-known substance in the cosmetic industry. It is a popular additive to skin care products because of its humectant properties, which enable the skin to retain moisture. This has prompted companies to add hyaluronic acid to hair products as well.
This article will discuss the effectiveness of using hyaluronic acid in the hair for moisture and hair loss. It will also cover alternative products to use for hair loss.
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Reasons to Use Hyaluronic Acid in Hair
Hyaluronic acid is a substance that retains water. It can bind to over one thousand times its weight in water. When used in skin care products, hyaluronic acid can increase the moisture in the skin. Its success with skin moisture has led people to use it in their hair.
Learn more about the potential benefits of hyaluronic acid for hair and the supporting research.
Hair Growth
One of the reasons someone might try hyaluronic acid on their hair is to improve hair growth.
A 2021 journal article found that hyaluronic acid could protect dermal papilla cells (cells that support and promote new hair follicles and maintenance of hair growth) and increase the secretion of the protein that stimulates the formation of blood vessels.
While these findings are positive, more research is needed to back hyaluronic acid as an effective product to improve hair growth.
Dryness and Dullness
Hyaluronic acid may be an effective moisturizer used in the hair to reduce dryness and dullness.
A 2014 study found that hyaluronic acid supplements significantly increased the softness and luster of the participants' hair. Dullness was decreased by 48%, and the severity of dryness was decreased by 47% over an eight-week period.
While this study had positive results, more research is needed to prove hyaluronic acid's effectiveness on dry and dull hair.
How to Apply Hyaluronic Acid to the Hair
There are no defined rules on how to apply hyaluronic acid to the hair.
Look for hair care products that contain hyaluronic acid, including serums, shampoos, or conditions. Follow the directions on the product label to moisturize the hair. This may mean washing the product out after use or keeping it on the hair.
Should Anyone Not Use Hyaluronic Acid on Hair?
Hyaluronic acid is generally a well-tolerated substance. However, the first time you use it on your hair, apply a small amount and test it on the skin to make sure it does not cause irritation or a reaction.
Some people may take an oral hyaluronic acid supplement to improve the appearance of their hair and skin. This should be done with caution and discussed with a healthcare provider beforehand. A 2015 study explored how oral hyaluronic acid can promote cancer cell growth.
Hyaluronic Acid Alternatives for Hair Loss
Several alternatives to hyaluronic acid are available to treat hair loss. Two common medications are Rogaine (minoxidil) and Propecia (finasteride).
Topical minoxidil is available over the counter (without a prescription). It is better for treating early hair loss, but it will not help someone regrow an entire head of hair. Finasteride is an oral prescription medication used for male-pattern hair loss, in addition to uses in other conditions.
Other alternatives for hair loss include:
- Lasers: At-home laser caps or combs are a newer treatment with some promising research. Laser treatments can improve hair thickness and fullness. However, more studies are needed to evaluate long-term effects.
- Microneedling: This method may help stimulate hair growth and is commonly used in conjunction with minoxidil. A device with dozens of tiny sterilized needles is rolled over the skin in the area where hair growth is desired, often before a treatment such as minoxidil is applied.
- Corticosteroid injections: A dermatologist can inject steroid medication into the scalp to help with inflammatory hair loss caused by conditions such as alopecia areata or lichen planopilaris.
Summary
Hyaluronic acid is a popular cosmetic product used to help the skin retain moisture. It is now being added to hair products as a moisturizer and to support hair growth. Some studies support these uses but more research is needed to support its use and effectiveness.
The first time using hyaluronic acid hair products, test a small area first to ensure there is no reaction.
5 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
Harvard Medical School. The hype on hyaluronic acid.
Zerbinati N, Sommatis S, Maccario C, et al. In vitro hair growth promoting effect of a noncrosslinked hyaluronic acid in human dermal papilla cells. Reich A, ed.BioMed Research International. 2021;2021:1-6. doi:10.1155/2021/5598110
Yagoda MD MR, Gans PhD EH. A nutritional supplement formulated with peptides, lipids, collagen and hyaluronic acid optimizes key aspects of physical appearance in nails, hair and skin.J Nutr Food Sci. 2012;s5. doi:10.4172/2155-9600.S5-002
Simone P, Alberto M. Caution should be used in long-term treatment with oral compounds of hyaluronic acid in patients with a history of cancer.Clin Drug Investig. 2015;35(11):689-692. doi:10.1007/s40261-015-0339-x
American Academy of Dermatology Association. Hair loss: diagnosis and treatment.
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By Patty Weasler, RN, BSN
Weasler is a Wisconsin-based registered nurse with over a decade of experience in pediatric critical care.
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