Is Your Matcha Causing Hair Loss and Dark Circles? What You Need to Know

Matcha went viral on the internet, where it became popular because of its flavour and health effects. Netizens all over the world are drinking this green tea powder, which is perceived to help enhance energy and well-being. Yet, matcha is faced with increasing rumour that it could lead to loss of hair and have dark circles under the eyes. To know all of this in detail, we reached out to Rakshita Mehra, a clinical dietitian from New Delhi, to set out the facts and fallacies.

Does Matcha Cause Hair Loss?

No, it is more likely that matcha will promote healthy hair rather than damage it. Matcha contains vitamins and minerals and antioxidants, which help to nourish hair and scalp. It is rich in EGCG, which is a potent ingredient that has the ability to mitigate inflammation and prevent hormones such as DHT that stimulate hair loss due to the shrinking hair follicles. Matcha contains vitamins C, E, zinc, and iron that would make the hair stronger and grow.

Another popular cause of hair loss would be stress, and matcha is able to curb stress by inducing relaxation without drowsiness due to its L-theanine. And, thus, matcha may even be protective against the stress-related shedding of hair. Nevertheless, matcha is not caffeine-free, so consuming too much caffeine may lead to hormonal imbalance in certain individuals, which in turn can cause hair loss. The avoidance of this is by moderation.

A warning Rakshita gives about matcha tannins and catechins. Such substances may diminish the level of iron absorption in your body up to 90 per cent. Hair thinning and dark circles may be caused by low amounts of iron. Consuming too much matcha without making dietary adjustments may exacerbate low iron and anaemia, especially in people who already have these problems. The consumption of matcha should be between meals, and you should just have sufficient iron-containing foods.

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What About Dark Circles?

This has not been medically proven that matcha will give you dark circles. As a matter of fact, the antioxidants in matcha, particularly EGCG, may provide anti-inflammatory and de-puffing effects around the eye area. Matcha is an ingredient found in many skincare products to lighten the area under the eyes and decrease dark circles caused due to oxidative stress.

But in the event that you are consuming too much caffeine in the form of matcha or other foods, it may interfere with your sleep. Dark circles are greatly influenced by poor sleep. Additionally, there might be individuals who are slightly allergic or sensitive to tannins, and this fact may cause irritation in the eye, which will exacerbate the condition of the dark circles.

Rakshita recommends that one monitor the total amount of caffeine consumed and ensure good sleeping habits. Those who drink in moderation, have matcha, and maintain a healthy lifestyle would not likely darken under their eyes.

How to Enjoy Matcha Safely

• It is necessary to limit the daily consumption of matcha so as not to exceed excessive amounts of caffeine (1-2 cups per day).
• Consume matcha in between meals to minimise iron absorption problems.
• Consume iron-containing food such as spinach, lentils and lean meat.
• To avoid dark circles, sleep well.
• In case you observe any thinning of the hair or the deepening of the circle, address a medical expert.

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Takeaway

Matcha in itself neither induces hair loss nor dark circles, and can also prevent hair loss and skin inflammation due to the presence of antioxidants and stress-reducing substances in it. However, having excessive matcha without moderating diet or sleep habits may indirectly result in conditions of iron deficiency or insufficient rest, which influences the quality of hair and skin. Use matcha as a well-rounded element of your diet and pay attention to what your body tells you in order to have shiny hair and skin.