Hair loss in athletes — what causes it and what you can do

Noticed thinning hair after months of heavy training? You're not imagining it. Athletes face a mix of factors that can speed up hair loss: hormones, gear that rubs the scalp, hard dieting, infections from close contact sports, and even certain supplements. Here's a straightforward look at why it happens and practical steps you can try right away.

Common causes athletes should know

DHT and hormones: Intense resistance training and some supplements can shift hormones. DHT (a byproduct of testosterone) shortens hair growth cycles in people prone to male-pattern or female-pattern hair loss. If you already have that sensitivity, training can make it show up sooner.

Anabolic steroids and supplements: Using anabolic steroids is a fast track to hair thinning for many athletes. Some performance enhancers also affect hormones. If you use them, hair loss can be a side effect — and remember, many are banned in sport.

Traction and friction: Tight helmets, caps, headbands, and repeated rubbing from equipment cause traction alopecia. It starts with small patches along the hairline or where straps press the most.

Telogen effluvium (shedding after stress): Big calorie cuts, crash diets, rapid weight loss, illness, or a period of extreme training load can push hair into shedding mode. That usually shows up 2–3 months after the trigger.

Scalp infections: Sports with close contact or shared mats can spread fungal infections like tinea capitis. That causes patches, itching, and breakage. It needs antifungal treatment from a clinician.

Fixes you can try today — and when to see a doc

Quick wins: switch to looser helmets and softer straps, stop wearing wet hats, wash and dry gear regularly, and avoid tight ponytails or braids. Cut back on extreme dieting and get consistent sleep — hair needs calories and rest to grow.

Nutrition and testing: Check protein intake and get basic blood tests — ferritin (iron stores), vitamin D, thyroid (TSH), and if relevant, testosterone. Low ferritin or low vitamin D often shows up with hair thinning. Add iron-rich foods, lean protein, and a vitamin D check if you train indoors or live in low sun.

Treatment options: Over-the-counter topical minoxidil helps many people. Oral finasteride can work well for men but needs a doctor’s prescription and a talk about side effects. For fungal scalp infections you’ll need antifungal meds. Avoid self-medicating with unregulated supplements or hormones.

Get professional help if you notice sudden patchy loss, scalp pain, severe shedding, or if lifestyle fixes don’t help after 3 months. A dermatologist can diagnose causes, order tests, and discuss treatments like PRP, prescription meds, or transplants for long-term cases.

One last note: if you use performance drugs or supplements, check anti-doping rules before starting any treatment. Some medications or therapies can affect eligibility. Talk to your doctor and your coach so you protect both your health and your sport.