TLDR Hair loss may link to weaker COVID-19 immunity, suggesting possible need for extra vaccine boost.
There is a potential association between androgenetic alopecia (AGA) and a weaker T-cell immune response to COVID-19, which could impact the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines. The authors propose that a booster vaccine targeting the androgen receptor may be necessary for individuals with AGA to achieve adequate protection against the virus. Further studies are needed to determine the role of androgens and the androgen receptor in modulating the immune response to COVID-19.
119 citations,
May 2020 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology” Most COVID-19 patients in hospitals have androgenetic alopecia, more in men, suggesting a link between androgen sensitivity and severe COVID-19 symptoms.
47 citations,
April 2020 in “Dermatologic Therapy” Androgenetic alopecia linked to COVID-19 severity; drugs reducing androgen receptor activation may help.
September 2022 in “Frontiers in Immunology” Anti-androgen therapy may boost immunity but increases injection site pain in vaccinated patients.
9 citations,
July 2021 in “Essays in Biochemistry” Sex hormones may influence COVID-19 severity, with males at higher risk, and certain hormone therapies could potentially treat the virus.
6 citations,
December 2020 in “Dermatological reviews” COVID-19 may worsen with androgens; anti-androgen drugs could help.
March 2023 in “Медицинский совет” COVID-19 may cause different types of hair loss, and the virus's effects on hair could help understand its impact on other body parts.
4 citations,
November 2021 in “Pharmaceuticals” Paeonia lactiflora and Poria cocos extracts can potentially increase hair growth and reduce hair loss symptoms by lowering testosterone and inflammation levels.
