Matcha for Hair: Growth and Scalp Benefits

Matcha is primarily discussed in the context of skin and overall health, but the same antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds that benefit skin also have relevance to scalp and hair health. The scalp is skin, after all, and a healthy scalp environment is one of the most important factors in healthy hair growth and quality.

The scalp-hair connection

Hair grows from follicles embedded in the scalp. The health of those follicles, and the skin environment that surrounds them, directly affects the rate of hair growth, the strength of individual strands, and the overall density and quality of hair. Scalp conditions including inflammation, blocked follicles, dandruff, and excess sebum production can all impair follicle function. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds that support skin health in general also support the scalp environment specifically.

What the research suggests

The research on matcha and hair specifically is limited, but there is more substantial evidence on the compounds in matcha. EGCG has been studied in the context of hair growth in both laboratory and small human studies. Research has found that EGCG may support hair follicle survival and proliferation in vitro, inhibit the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which converts testosterone to DHT, the primary hormone associated with androgenetic hair loss, and reduce scalp inflammation that can impair follicle function.

These findings are promising but should be treated carefully. Most studies on EGCG and hair growth use concentrations much higher than you would achieve from drinking matcha or applying a matcha mask. The effect from regular dietary or topical use of matcha is likely to be mild and supportive rather than dramatic.

Drinking matcha for hair health

Consuming matcha regularly provides EGCG, L-theanine, vitamins including vitamin C and vitamin E, and chlorophyll through the diet. These compounds support general circulatory health, which is relevant for scalp blood flow, and provide antioxidant protection that benefits the entire body including the scalp. The stress-buffering effect of L-theanine is also relevant since chronic stress is a well-established contributor to hair shedding.

Using matcha on the scalp topically

A matcha scalp treatment is simple to prepare. Mix two teaspoons of matcha powder with enough warm water to form a paste, apply to the scalp, massage gently with your fingertips for a few minutes, and leave for ten to fifteen minutes before rinsing thoroughly. This delivers antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds directly to the scalp skin. Some people add a small amount of coconut oil or rosemary essential oil to the paste for additional nourishing and circulatory benefits.

Dandruff and scalp inflammation

The antibacterial properties of EGCG and the anti-inflammatory compounds in matcha may help calm an inflamed or irritated scalp and reduce conditions that contribute to dandruff. A matcha scalp mask once or twice a week is a gentle, low-risk addition to a haircare routine for people dealing with scalp irritation.

Common questions

Will matcha stain my hair?  The green colour may temporarily tint very light or grey hair. Rinse very thoroughly with warm water. The tint, if any, is not permanent and washes out completely.

Can I add matcha to my shampoo?  Yes. Stirring a teaspoon of matcha into your shampoo adds the compounds to your scalp wash routine. The shampoo will turn green, which is expected.

How long before I see results from scalp treatments?  Hair growth is slow, and changes in the scalp environment take time to affect visible hair. Allow at least two to three months of consistent use before drawing conclusions.

This is general information and not medical advice. Persistent hair loss or scalp conditions should be assessed by a dermatologist or trichologist.