Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Background Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the most common form of non-scarring hair loss, yet the contribution of modifiable lifestyle factors to its pathogenesis is not well understood. Lifestyle medicine (LM) comprises six core pillars - avoidance of risky substances, restorative sleep, a whole-food plant-predominant diet, stress management, physical activity, and positive social connections - offering a framework for addressing modifiable contributors. Objective To review evidence regarding associations between LM pillars and AGA pathogenesis and management. Methods A narrative literature review was conducted in PubMed and Google Scholar for studies published January 2010 to April 2026 examining associations between LM pillars and AGA. Results Cigarette smoking is associated with increased AGA risk and severity; evidence for alcohol is mixed. Shorter, poorer quality sleep is associated with AGA severity. Vegetable- and antioxidant-rich diets are associated with lower odds; junk food and preserved meat with higher odds. AGA patients report greater anxiety, depressive symptoms, and perceived stress. Exercise findings may vary by type and intensity. No studies directly examined social connection. Limitations Data are observational and heterogeneous. Conclusion Lifestyle modification should currently be regarded as a supportive, low-risk complement to established pharmacologic and procedural AGA therapies, with prospective studies needed to define its clinical role.
Source: JAAD reviews.
Institutions: Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard University
Language: English
Topic: Hair Growth and Disorders
Subfield: Dermatology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,000
OpenAlex ID: W7214586900