Cayenne Pepper for Hair Growth: Benefits, Usage, and Risks

Specialty: Dermatologist ,Hair, Skin, and Nail Disorders

Dr. Shruti Chavan is a consulting dermatologist at Dr.Sheth's Skin and Hair Clinic since 6 years. She is a co-committee member of CDSI (Cosmetic dermatologist Society of India). She is highly skilled in non-surgical facial skin rejuvenation... more

  • Benefits Of Cayenne Pepper For Hair: What Does Science Say?
  • How To Use Cayenne Pepper For Hair Growth
  • Risks Of Using Cayenne Pepper

Benefits Of Cayenne Pepper For Hair: What Does Science Say?

Cayenne pepper is related to jalapenos and capsicum and has a moderately spicy flavor. It has been used for many medicinal therapies, including hair loss treatment. Some believe it may even stimulate hair growth.

  • The capsaicin in cayenne pepper may be used to treat alopecia areata as it works as a contact sensitizer. Some research suggests that capsaicin stimulates hair growth (1).
  • Capsaicin is known to have anti-inflammatory properties that may help treat painful inflammatory conditions (2). It may also help soothe any inflammatory issues associated with the scalp.
  • Capsaicin can trigger the vallanoid receptors in hair follicles and may boost hair growth (3). The spice may also stimulate hair growth by inhibiting substance P (a peptide). In a study, participants with alopecia showed hair growth in a 7569567/' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' >5-month period when they ingested capsaicin and isoflavone (4), (5).
  • Anecdotal evidence suggests that cayenne pepper may also improve hair shine and feel. Some research shows that cayenne pepper may improve hair health in general (6).
  • Most peppers in the same family as cayenne pepper are rich in vitamins A, C, and E, and folate (7). These vitamins are known to play a role in hair loss (8).

Using cayenne pepper for promoting hair health is simple. We have discussed the recipes below.

How To Use Cayenne Pepper For Hair Growth

1. Onion Juice And Cayenne Pepper

You Will Need

  • 2-3 tablespoons of cayenne pepper powder
  • 4-5 tablespoons of onion juice
  • 1 tablespoon of aloe vera (optional)

Processing Time

30 minutes

Procedure

  1. Combine the cayenne powder, onion juice, and aloe vera.
  2. Store the mixture in a jar and leave it in the sunlight for about 6-8 hours.
  3. Massage the mixture into your hair and scalp.
  4. Leave it on for 30-40 minutes.
  5. Wash with warm water and shampoo.

How Often

Twice to thrice a week, until you see substantial hair growth.

Why It Works

Onion juice can be used as an alternative treatment for hair loss (9), (10). It can also be used to stimulate hair growth and eliminate head lice (11). Aloe vera can prevent hair loss and protect the scalp from infections and dandruff (12).

Why This Works

Olive oil moisturizes the scalp and hair. It is known to penetrate hair follicles and nourish them from within (13). You can also try warming the olive oil to increase its penetrative properties.

Why This Works

Castor oil is a well-known hair growth stimulant (14). It may also treat dandruff and hair luster.

Why This Works

Apple cider vinegar may help reduce hair issues like dandruff, head lice, scalp acne, alopecia areata, baldness, and hair loss (15).

Why This Works

Coconut oil reduces protein loss in hair follicles. It also protects hair from UV damage (16).

Why This Works

Anecdotal evidence suggests that vodka balances the scalp pH levels. It also may unclog scalp pores.

Why This Works

Aloe vera is a good emollient. It also treats hair loss and can be used to reduce dandruff (12). It may also protect the scalp from infection.

Why This Works

Honey is a good emollient. It also treats dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis (17). It can also be used to treat hair loss (18).

Why This Works

Lemon juice and olive oil can be used to treat scalp and hair disorders (19). Anecdotal evidence suggests that it may also eliminate dandruff and lice and reduce scalp acne.

Before you go ahead and start using cayenne pepper, note that it may also pose certain risks.

Risks Of Using Cayenne Pepper

While cayenne pepper may stimulate hair growth, its capsaicin can also cause a burning sensation on the scalp. While the burning sensation may reduce with time, it is advisable not to use a direct concentrate of capsaicin. You can instead pair cayenne pepper with other soothing ingredients like avocado or aloe vera or oils like coconut or olive.

Other side effects of cayenne pepper based on anecdotal evidence include allergic reactions, dry scalp aggravation, and changes in hair dye color. If you notice any of these signs, stop use and consult your doctor.

Conclusion

Cayenne pepper may stimulate hair growth and boost hair health. Though more research is warranted, using cayenne pepper seems to offer some benefit. However, be wary of the potential adverse effects. Use it as directed by a hair care expert or your doctor for the best results – and do a patch test before using it on your entire scalp.

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