Can Matcha Cause Hair Loss? What the Evidence Says

The concern that matcha might cause hair loss appears occasionally online, usually citing effects on DHT or iron absorption. The evidence does not support the idea that matcha causes hair loss. If anything, research points in the opposite direction.

EGCG and DHT

Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) plays a central role in androgenetic alopecia — the most common form of hair loss. EGCG, the primary catechin in matcha, has been studied as a potential DHT inhibitor. It appears to weakly inhibit 5-alpha reductase, the enzyme that converts testosterone to DHT — the same enzyme targeted by some pharmaceutical hair loss treatments. In this context, EGCG would be expected to modestly reduce DHT-related hair loss, not cause it.

The iron absorption concern

Tea catechins can reduce non-haem iron absorption. Severe iron deficiency is a known cause of hair loss. If someone is already borderline on iron and drinks large quantities of matcha with every meal, the chain could theoretically contribute to declining iron levels and eventually hair thinning. This is indirect and unlikely for most people. Timing matcha away from meals resolves the concern.

The conclusion

There is no direct evidence that moderate matcha consumption causes hair loss in healthy individuals. The EGCG research leans toward potential protection. If you are experiencing hair loss, the cause is almost certainly not matcha.