Along with high blood sugar levels, circulatory system damage, blindness and impotence, diabetics also need to worry about hair loss. Because diabetes interferes with blood circulation, it can prevent hair follicles from getting needed blood flow and oxygen.

Reasons for Diabetic Hair Loss

Diabetes affects blood circulation. If a diabetic's blood circulation is poor, it will affect his ability to keep or grow his hair. His hair follicles won't function with a decreased blood circulation. (Ref. 1.)

Diabetes-Related Stress

Dealing with diabetes on a daily basis increases stress levels for some patients. When stress levels increase, hormones become unbalanced. Unbalanced hormones accelerate hair loss. (Ref. 2.)

Diabetes and Normal Hair Cycle

Normally, human hair will grow for a period ranging from two to six years. With diabetes, poor blood circulation interferes with the production of a hair follicle at the start of a hair growth cycle. After a hair becomes dormant and falls out, a new follicle is not stimulated to replace it. The diabetic patient's hair falls out more quickly as well. (Ref. 1.)

Diabetes and Skin Problems

Diabetic neuropathy (blood circulation-related nerve damage) is linked to skin problems. The skin problems, in turn, are related to hair loss. (Ref. 2.)

Uncontrolled Blood Sugar and Hair Loss

If the diabetic does not control his blood sugar levels, oxygen and nutrients, his hair needs cannot reach his hair follicles. When this happens, his hair falls out at a quicker rate. When he begins normalizing blood sugar levels, his rate of hair loss will slow. (Ref. 2.)

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How Does Diabetes Cause Hair Loss?

Why Diabetes Can Cause Hair Loss