Have you noticed more hair in your brush after starting birth control? If so, you’re not alone. Many people in San Jose—and everywhere else—wonder if their birth control could be the reason their hair is thinning. The good news is that you’re not imagining it. Birth control can affect your hair, but not always in the same way for everyone.
Here’s what you need to know, explained in a simple and friendly way.
How Birth Control Can Affect Your Hair
Birth control works by changing your hormone levels. Since hormones play a big part in your hair growth cycle, certain types of birth control can cause changes like extra shedding or thinning.
Some hair changes happen because:
Your body is adjusting to new hormone levels
You stopped one form of birth control and started another
Your scalp is sensitive to hormonal shifts
For many people, the changes are temporary. But for others, especially those who are more sensitive to hormones, the shedding can feel more dramatic.
Types of Birth Control More Likely to Cause Hair Loss
Not all birth control affects your hair the same way. Some may have little impact, while others might trigger noticeable shedding.
Birth control that might cause hair thinning includes:
Pills with high androgen levels
Hormonal IUDs
Birth control implants
Certain injections
Androgens are hormones that can make hair follicles shrink. If your birth control has higher androgen activity, it may trigger hair thinning—especially if you have a family history of hair loss.
Signs Your Hair Loss May Be Linked to Birth Control
Wondering if your hair changes are connected to your contraceptive? Look for these signs:
Shedding began 2–3 months after starting or stopping birth control
Your hair feels thinner all over, not just in one spot
No other lifestyle changes explain the shedding
You have a personal or family history of hair loss
Most birth-control-related shedding is known as telogen effluvium, a fancy term for stress-triggered hair shedding.
How to Support Your Hair
Even though hormone-related shedding often stops on its own, there are helpful steps you can take:
Be gentle with your hair—avoid tight styles
Eat foods rich in protein, iron, and vitamins
Use lightweight, scalp-friendly hair products
Lower stress with outdoor walks, yoga, or quiet time
Talk to your doctor about switching to a lower-androgen option
Remember: your hair needs time to adjust. Most people see improvement within a few months.
When Hair Loss Might Not Be Normal
Sometimes hair thinning isn’t just from birth control. You may need expert help if you notice:
Bald patches
Itchy, red, or inflamed scalp
Shedding that lasts more than 6–12 months
Hair thinning only in certain areas
These signs may point to another condition, and a scalp specialist can guide you.
You Don’t Have to Navigate Hair Loss Alone
If you’re worried about hair loss—whether from birth control or something else—help is available.
At New Look Institute, we are experts on all types of hair loss, including hormone-related shedding. Our team uses advanced scalp analysis and trichology-based care to find out what’s happening and recommend solutions that truly help. We’re here in San Jose to support your hair journey every step of the way. Reach out today to schedule your complimentary consultation.
