Last updated: October 2026
There’s very little evidence that CBD helps hair. The only human studies are two small case series of a topical hemp extract for pattern hair loss, with no placebo group, so they can’t show it works. Lab studies are mixed: some cannabinoids encourage hair growth in cells, others slow it. CBD hair products are mainly conditioning oils.
Below: what the research shows, CBD oil vs hemp seed oil for hair, how people use it, safety, and what has proven benefits for hair loss.
Does CBD help hair? The research
| Study | What it found | Limits |
|---|---|---|
| Case series, 2021 (35 people with pattern hair loss) | A CBD-rich hemp extract applied daily for 6 months was linked with more hair | No placebo or comparison group |
| Case series, 2023 (31 people) | A hemp extract with CBD, CBDV and THCV, plus peppermint, was linked with regrowth in all participants | Same researcher; no placebo; menthol may have contributed |
| Cell study, 2021 | CBD protected hair-follicle cells from some hormone-related changes in a dish | Lab only |
| Human hair follicle study, 2007 | The body’s own cannabinoids slowed hair growth through CB1 receptors | Suggests effects may depend on dose and receptor |
A 2022 review concluded topical CBD needs proper trials before anyone can say it helps hair. Until then, treat bold “regrowth” claims with caution.
CBD oil vs hemp seed oil for hair
| CBD oil | Hemp seed oil | |
|---|---|---|
| Made from | Hemp flowers and leaves, diluted in a carrier oil | Pressed hemp seeds |
| CBD | Yes, stated in mg | Little or none |
| For hair | Mostly the carrier oil conditions hair | A rich, nourishing oil for dry ends and scalp |
Many of the “nutrients for hair” claims you’ll see, such as omega fatty acids and amino acids, describe hemp seed oil, not CBD. See hemp oil vs CBD oil.
How people use CBD on hair and scalp
- CBD shampoos and conditioners: rinsed off quickly, so contact time is short.
- Scalp oils and serums: massaged in and left on; the massage and oil help with dryness.
- Hair masks: a few drops in a conditioning mask for dry ends.
Our CBD oils are made to be taken by mouth, not as hair products. If you want to try CBD for skin or scalp, see CBD for skin.
Safety and patch testing
- Patch test any new scalp product behind the ear or on the inner arm for 48 hours.
- Fragrance and essential oils (including peppermint) can irritate a sensitive scalp.
- Don’t use on broken or inflamed skin. Scalp psoriasis or eczema needs proper treatment. See CBD for psoriasis and CBD for eczema.
What helps hair loss
Losing 50 to 100 hairs a day is normal. The NHS says temporary hair loss can be caused by illness, stress, weight loss or iron deficiency, so it’s worth looking at those first.
- Minoxidil and finasteride are the main treatments for male pattern baldness; minoxidil can also be used for female pattern hair loss. They don’t work for everyone and only work while used.
- Check iron and diet with your GP if hair is thinning, especially after illness or weight loss.
- Stress: shedding a few months after a stressful time or illness often recovers on its own. Sleep and stress management matter. See stress in men and magnesium for women.
See your GP if you’re worried, if hair falls out in patches, or if it’s affecting your wellbeing.
FAQs
Is CBD oil good for your hair?
The oil can condition dry hair, but there’s no good evidence that CBD itself improves hair health or growth.
Does CBD help hair growth?
Not proven. Two small case series without a placebo group reported more hair with a hemp extract, but proper trials are needed.
Can CBD cause hair loss?
There’s no evidence that CBD causes hair loss in people. Lab studies show some cannabinoids can slow hair growth in follicles, so effects are unclear.
Is hemp seed oil the same as CBD oil for hair?
No. Hemp seed oil contains little or no CBD, but it’s a nourishing oil for dry hair and scalp.
Can I put CBD oil on my scalp?
You can, but patch test first, avoid broken skin, and don’t use it in place of treatment for scalp conditions.
What actually works for hair loss?
Minoxidil and finasteride are the main proven treatments for pattern hair loss. Temporary shedding from stress, illness or low iron often improves once the cause is treated.
Sources
- Smith GL, Satino J. Hair regrowth with cannabidiol (CBD)-rich hemp extract: a case series. Cannabis, 2021.
- Smith GL. Hair regrowth with novel hemp extract: a case series. Int J Trichology, 2023.
- Gupta AK, Talukder M. A cannabinoid hairy-tale: hair loss or hair gain? J Cosmet Dermatol, 2022.
- Park YJ et al. Regulatory effect of cannabidiol on decreased β-catenin expression in alopecia models. J Pharmacopuncture, 2021.
- Telek A et al. Inhibition of human hair follicle growth by endo- and exocannabinoids. FASEB J, 2007.
- NHS. Hair loss.
