Dr. Antonio Alvi Armani

Boric acid and hair loss

Boric acid is a mild acid, derived from boron or sodium borate, which is often used as antiseptic, insecticide, flame retardant and as a precursor of other chemical compounds.  It has also been used in nuclear power plants to control the fission rate of uranium.  It exists in the form of colourless crystals or a white powder, which dissolves in water.

Boric acid, and its chemical cousins sodium borate and boron, are also used in countless other consumer products, including: detergents, mouthwash, laundry additives and water softeners.  And while it is often used as an insecticide for cockroaches, it is considered to be relatively harmless to humans and animals and is, in fact, understood to be not that much more toxic than table salt.

That being said, when boric acid has been used in mouthwash it has been known to cause diffuse hair loss.  Occupational exposure to sodium borate, like that found in industrial hand-cleaner, has also caused diffuse hair loss.

It is disturbing how many of the chemicals we are in contact with in a daily basis have unexpected and unfortunate affects on our well-being.  If you are suffering from diffuse hair loss (thinning of your hair) it is possible that substances that you encounter in your daily life could be affecting you in ways you cannot predict.  You should always be aware of the chemicals you handle everyday and always follow the precautionary instructions provided with all consumer products.