Can Nootropics Cause Hair Loss? (Backed by Research)

While no concrete evidence links Adderall directly to hair shedding, some sources list hair shedding as a potential and uncommon nootropic side effect [3].

Most likely, the negative effects associated with Adderall, such as lack of sleep, and loss of appetite, might be contributing to alopecia.

Moreover, the abuse of Adderall often leads to increased stress and anxiety, and there’s a very unlikely possibility of developing an allergic reaction on the scalp that might facilitate hair loss.

3. Piracetam

There are no claims that piracetam causes hair loss. And after extensive research, we couldn't find any scientific literature associating it with alopecia.

4. Noopept

Like Piracetam, there is no scientific or speculative evidence linking noopept to hair loss.

Bacopa Monnieri is a herbal supplement that scientists have found helpful in speeding up information processing and boosting memory, especially when taken continuously.

We found no links to hair loss.

However, we found anecdotal reports associating it with hair growth, particularly from manufacturers who include it in their hair loss treatment products.

Nonetheless, we couldn't find conclusive scientific evidence supporting the same.

4. Lion’s Mane Mushroom

Taking Lion’s Mane replenishes neurochemicals and leads to more active brain cells.

Studies also show that taking it results in 60.6% neurite growth, which makes it a great nootropic supplement [7].

Now, there is hardly any claim that Lion’s Mane may cause hair loss. Scientific materials supporting the claim do not exist.

Conversely, some sources claim that it might help prevent hair loss, especially when combined with Reishi mushrooms. Still, scientific studies on the subject are scarce.

Rhodiola rosea’s cognitive benefits in stress resistance and in learning and memory improvement have seen the drug become one of the go-to natural nootropic compounds [8].

While there are scarce reports connecting this compound to hair loss, there are a few assertions that it might help prevent hair shedding, thanks to its stress-relieving benefits.

However, we couldn’t find concrete evidence supporting the claim.

6. Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo biloba has numerous health benefits for people with cognitive decline problems such as mild Alzheimers and dementia [9].

In regards to hair shedding, preliminary studies in mice show that the compound might help slow down hair loss while promoting hair regrowth [10].

7. Panax Ginseng

Panax Ginseng is another popular ingredient in nootropics because it helps reduce brain fatigue and enhances cognitive performance in mentally demanding tasks [11].

Studies have shown that Panax ginseng has potential hair growth benefits and may also help in preventing hair loss [12].

Maritime pine bark extract is a common nootropic compound that helps those with cognitive decline.

According to research, Korean maritime pine bark can help prevent hair loss while promoting hair growth [13].

9. Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha extract is another common nootropic that helps protect the brain from damage caused by toxins, injury, and stroke.

In addition, one study investigating the effects of ashwagandha found that it could prevent hair loss and promote hair growth [14].

Choline can be found naturally in the brain. Some nootropic supplements contain the element because of the benefits of improving mental processing and memory.

No claims have been found of its association with hair loss, and neither is there scientific data showing the same.

11. Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is another popular ingredient that you’ll find in nootropics because of its benefits in improving alertness and focus.

Scientists have found that a deficiency of vitamin B12 can lead to hair loss [15].

Yes, some cognitive enhancer ingredients and compounds such as caffeine, Panax ginseng, ashwagandha, and marine pine bark extract have actually been found to promote hair growth.

Additionally, nootropics as cognitive enhancers have stress reduction benefits that may be helpful to hair growth.

Let me explain.

As you know, chronic stress can cause physical and mental health problems.

In particular, scientists assert that the stress hormone cortisol has a negative effect on hair follicles.

It can cause thinning hair or loss of hair density and may also interfere with the hair cycle and functionality [16].

Hence, taking brain enhancers for your mental health might have a positive effect on your hair and can be an effective hair loss prevention mechanism.

Other common nootropics that can act as hair loss supplements because of their benefits in hair growth include:

• Green tea
• Pumpkin seed oil
• Ginger

Now that you know that there is no risk of hair loss, it's important that you’re keen on the dosage.

As we saw earlier, the abuse of prescription nootropics like Adderall could lead to stress and anxiety, which are factors in hair loss.

In addition, you don't want to risk taking products with unfamiliar ingredients and of inferior quality. They might speed up hair loss.

Manzoor Ahmad, pharmacist and founder of DrugsBank, advises to look for third-party testing and certification or a certification stamp to ensure the quality of a nootropic.

Ahmad adds that it is also crucial to adhere to the recommended dosage as higher intake may be toxic and harmful.

That said, our team has tested dozens of supplement products and prepared a list of best-performing nootropic products. I’ll provide the links below.