L-Tyrosine and Hair Loss

The amino acid tyrosine plays an important role in how your body copes with stress.High stress levels may contribute to hair loss. Stress levels fluctuate, and your body is able to regulate stress hormones; however, some help may be needed to maintain your tyrosine level. Be sure to speak to your doctor about any stress symptoms and possible treatments.

L-Tyrosine

L-tyrosine, or also simply known as tyrosine, is a nonessential amino acid that occurs naturally in your body. The amino acid plays an important role in helping nerve cells communicate properly. The neurotransmitters that influence mood and nerve cell functions are made up of tyrosine building blocks. In addition, tyrosine is vital in regulating hormones in the adrenal, pituitary and thyroid glands.

Tyrosine Deficiency

Can You Take L-Tyrosine and Caffeine Together?

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Epinephrine and norepinephrine are stress hormones that tyrosine helps produce. High stress levels in a person can cause a drop in the production of tyrosine that, in turn, reduces the amount of stress hormones available to deal with stress-related symptoms. Tyrosine deficiencies are rare, but certain side effects, such as the potential for stress-induced hair loss, can be detrimental 1.

Stress and Hair Loss

Hair loss can be attributed to a number of reasons, most commonly genetics. According to MayoClinic.com, three types of hair loss are stress-induced 1. They include alopecia areata, telogen effluvium and trichotillomania. In contrast to genetic hair loss, stress-related hair loss causes hair to fall out in patches while combing or washing your hair. In many cases, hair will grow back if the level of stress is brought down and controlled. If your hair does not regrow however, treatment options can be sought.

Hair Color

The Effects of N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine

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In addition to its many other vital functions, tyrosine produces melanin, the pigment that determines skin and hair color. Since stress can cause hair loss as well as color change, stable tyrosine levels are important 1. L-tyrosine dietary supplements may help hair that has changed color and regrowing hair regain its natural color, according to the StopHairLossNow Network.

Forms and Dosage

L-tyrosine dietary supplements are available in tablet and capsule forms. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends taking L-tyrosine supplements 30 minutes before meals in three daily doses between 500 to 1,000 mg each. Taking vitamins B6, B9 and copper with L-tyrosine can help maximize the supplements effect in converting it into brain chemicals. Consult your doctor before beginning a L-tyrosine supplement regimen.