Table of Contents
- Introduction
- What is MCT Oil and How Does It Work?
- The Myth: Does MCT Oil Cause Hair Loss?
- MCT Oil vs. Coconut Oil: A Critical Distinction for Hair
- Why Your Hair Might Thin on a New Diet
- Can MCT Oil Actually Support Hair Growth?
- How to Properly Use MCT Oil in Your Routine
- The Role of Collagen in Combatting Hair Thinning
- Identifying Genuine Hair Loss vs. Temporary Thinning
- Summary of Best Practices for Hair and Energy
- Conclusion
Introduction
If you have recently started a ketogenic diet or upgraded your morning coffee routine, you have likely encountered medium-chain triglycerides, better known as MCT oil. This supplement is a staple for those seeking sustained energy, mental clarity, and metabolic support. However, as with any popular wellness trend, rumors eventually surface. One of the most common questions we hear is whether MCT oil causes hair loss.
At BUBS Naturals, we believe in providing clean, science-backed information so you can make the best decisions for your health. When you start a new supplement, it is natural to monitor your body for changes. If you notice a few extra strands in the hairbrush, you want to know why. This article will explore the relationship between MCT oil and hair health, looking at both internal use and topical application.
We will examine the science behind MCTs, how they differ from coconut oil, and why the "keto flu" often gets confused with supplement side effects. Most importantly, we will clear up the misconceptions about hair thinning and explain how these healthy fats actually function in your body. The short answer is that MCT oil does not cause hair loss, and in many cases, it may actually support the environment your hair needs to thrive.
Quick Answer: There is no scientific evidence that ingesting MCT oil causes hair loss. Most reports of thinning while using MCT oil are actually linked to rapid weight loss or nutrient shifts associated with a ketogenic diet, a condition known as telogen effluvium.
What is MCT Oil and How Does It Work?
To understand if a supplement affects your hair, you first need to know what it is doing inside your body. MCT stands for medium-chain triglycerides. These are a type of saturated fat found in coconut oil, palm kernel oil, and some dairy products. Unlike long-chain triglycerides (LCTs) found in most other fats, MCTs are processed differently by your digestive system.
Most fats require bile and a long trip through the lymphatic system to be broken down. MCTs take a shortcut. They go straight from the digestive tract to the liver. Once there, your body quickly converts them into ketones. Ketones are an efficient fuel source for your brain and muscles, especially when you are low on carbohydrates. This is why MCT oil is so popular in the fitness and veteran communities; it provides a direct hit of energy without the sugar crash.
There are four types of MCTs, categorized by the length of their carbon chains:
- C6 (Caproic acid)
- C8 (Caprylic acid)
- C10 (Capric acid)
- C12 (Lauric acid)
Most high-quality supplements, like our MCT Oil Creamer, focus on C8 and C10. These are the most bioavailable, meaning your body can absorb and use them almost immediately. By providing this clean fuel, MCTs help support metabolic health and mental focus.
Creamers
The Myth: Does MCT Oil Cause Hair Loss?
The idea that MCT oil leads to hair thinning is largely a misunderstanding of timing and association. Most people begin taking MCT oil at the same time they make significant lifestyle changes, such as starting a strict ketogenic or low-carb diet. These diets are often designed for rapid fat loss. While losing weight can be a health win, it is also a physiological stressor.
When the body undergoes a sudden change in calories or a major shift in macronutrients (like cutting out almost all carbs), it sometimes enters a protective state. One result of this stress is telogen effluvium. This is a temporary form of hair thinning that occurs when a large number of hairs are pushed into the "resting" phase of their growth cycle simultaneously. A few months after the stressful event or dietary shift, those hairs fall out.
Because people are often taking MCT oil as part of their new keto routine, they see the hair thinning and blame the oil. In reality, the culprit is usually the caloric deficit or the body's adjustment to a new metabolic state. The MCT oil itself is simply an innocent bystander in this process.
Myth: MCT oil directly triggers hair follicles to stop growing.
Fact: MCT oil is a fat source that provides energy. Hair thinning during MCT use is typically caused by the "stress" of a new diet or a lack of specific micronutrients like biotin or zinc.
MCT Oil vs. Coconut Oil: A Critical Distinction for Hair
Many people confuse MCT oil with coconut oil. While MCT oil is derived from coconuts, they are not the same thing. This distinction is vital when discussing hair health, especially if you plan to use these oils topically.
Coconut oil is roughly 50% lauric acid (C12). Lauric acid is a long-chain fatty acid that behaves differently than C8 or C10. While coconut oil is a great cooking fat, applying it directly to the scalp can be hit or miss. Because coconut oil is heavy and "commedogenic" (pore-clogging), it can sometimes block hair follicles or cause protein buildup on the hair shaft. For some people, this leads to brittleness and breakage, which looks like hair loss.
Refined MCT oil, on the other hand, is much "thinner" and more stable. It consists mainly of C8 and C10. These specific fatty acids have potent antimicrobial and antifungal properties. Unlike coconut oil, pure MCT oil is often used by people dealing with scalp issues because it does not feed the specific yeasts that cause dandruff.
Comparison: MCT Oil vs. Coconut Oil
| Feature | MCT Oil (C8 & C10) | Coconut Oil (Whole) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Use | Energy, Ketones, Brain Power | Cooking, Skin Moisturizer |
| Digestion | Immediate; converted to ketones | Slower; requires bile |
| Scalp Health | Fights fungus; lightweight | Can clog pores; heavy |
| Hair Effect | Supports scalp environment | Can cause protein buildup |
| Texture | Liquid at room temp; non-greasy | Solid at room temp; greasy |
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Join The ClubWhy Your Hair Might Thin on a New Diet
If you have noticed hair thinning after adding MCT oil to your routine, it is likely one of three things, none of which are caused by the oil itself.
1. Telogen Effluvium (The Stress Response)
As mentioned, your body prioritizes vital organs over "luxury" items like hair. If you suddenly drop your calories or switch your primary fuel source from sugar to fat, your body may temporarily halt hair growth. This typically resolves once your body adapts to the new diet, usually within three to six months.
2. Protein and Micronutrient Deficiency
When people go "keto," they sometimes focus so much on fat that they forget about protein and micronutrients. Hair is made of a protein called keratin. If you aren't eating enough high-quality protein, your hair strength will suffer. Additionally, deficiencies in vitamins like B7 (biotin), Vitamin D, or minerals like iron and zinc can lead to thinning.
3. The "Keto Flu" and Systemic Adjustment
The transition into ketosis can cause fatigue, headaches, and brain fog. This is often due to the loss of electrolytes as the body flushes out excess water. While the keto flu doesn't directly cause hair loss, the systemic stress of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance can contribute to the overall physical strain that leads to thinning.
Bottom line: MCT oil is a source of healthy fats that may actually help you meet your caloric needs during a diet transition, potentially reducing the stress that leads to hair thinning.
Can MCT Oil Actually Support Hair Growth?
While MCT oil is not a "magic hair growth serum," it can support the foundations of a healthy scalp and body, which in turn helps your hair.
Supporting a Healthy Scalp
Seborrheic dermatitis is a common scalp condition that causes itching, flakes, and sometimes hair loss. It is often caused by a yeast called Malassezia. This yeast feeds on specific fats—specifically those with carbon chains of 12 to 24. This is why many oils, including coconut oil and olive oil, can make dandruff worse.
However, Malassezia cannot feed on C8 or C10 fatty acids. This makes pure MCT oil a "safe" oil for people with scalp issues. By helping to manage the scalp's fungal balance and reducing inflammation, MCT oil may create a better environment for hair follicles to function correctly.
Enhancing Nutrient Absorption
Certain vitamins essential for hair health—like Vitamins A, D, E, and K—are fat-soluble. This means your body cannot absorb them effectively without the presence of fat. Adding a scoop of our MCT Oil Creamer to your morning routine can help your body better utilize the nutrients you get from your food or other supplements.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Chronic inflammation is a known enemy of healthy hair follicles. MCTs have been shown to have mild anti-inflammatory effects in the gut. Since gut health is closely linked to skin and hair health, supporting your microbiome with clean fats can have a positive "ripple effect" throughout your body.
How to Properly Use MCT Oil in Your Routine
To get the most out of MCT oil without any digestive or physical discomfort, you should follow a few simple rules.
Start Low and Go Slow
MCT oil is a powerful fuel. If your digestive system isn't used to it, taking a full serving on day one might lead to an upset stomach or "disaster pants." Start with half a teaspoon or one small scoop of powder and gradually increase the amount over a week or two. This allows your liver and gut to adapt.
Choose High-Quality Sources
Not all MCT oils are created equal. Some cheaper versions contain high amounts of C12 (lauric acid) or are extracted using harsh chemicals. We prioritize purity. Our MCT products are made from 100% coconut-sourced MCTs and are designed to mix effortlessly into your coffee, tea, or shakes.
To compare formats and find the one that fits your routine, you can also check out our Butter MCT Oil Creamer.
Pair with Collagen for Hair Support
If hair health is your primary concern, MCT oil is only one piece of the puzzle. While MCT provides the energy and the scalp environment, collagen provides the building blocks.
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body. It provides the amino acids (like proline) needed to build keratin. Pairing MCT oil for energy with Collagen Peptides for structural support is a potent combination for anyone looking to maintain their hair, skin, and nails while staying active.
Note: Always listen to your body. If you experience persistent hair loss that does not resolve after your diet stabilizes, consult a healthcare provider to check for underlying issues like thyroid imbalances or severe nutrient deficiencies.
The Role of Collagen in Combatting Hair Thinning
Since hair loss is often a concern about protein and structural integrity, it is worth discussing how collagen fits into the conversation. Many people who fear MCT oil is causing hair loss are actually just lacking the necessary protein to sustain hair growth during a period of heavy training or dieting.
Our Collagen Peptides are grass-fed and pasture-raised, providing a clean source of Types I and III collagen. These are the types most responsible for the health of your skin and hair. By adding collagen to your daily routine, you provide your body with a steady supply of the amino acids it needs to repair tissues. When your body has an abundance of these building blocks, it is less likely to "shut down" hair production during times of caloric restriction or high stress.
For a deeper look at the ingredient itself, see our Hydrolyzed Collagen Peptides guide.
Identifying Genuine Hair Loss vs. Temporary Thinning
It is important to distinguish between losing a few more hairs than usual and actual medical hair loss. Everyone loses between 50 and 100 hairs per day. This is a normal part of the hair growth cycle.
- Normal Shedding: You see hairs in the shower or on your brush, but your overall volume looks the same.
- Telogen Effluvium (Temporary): You notice significant shedding 3–4 months after a major life change or diet shift. The hair usually grows back once the stressor is removed.
- Androgenetic Alopecia (Permanent): This is genetic thinning that happens slowly over years, usually following a specific pattern (like a receding hairline or thinning at the crown).
MCT oil has no known mechanism to trigger genetic hair loss. If you are experiencing rapid shedding, look at your recent stress levels, your sleep quality, and your total protein intake.
Summary of Best Practices for Hair and Energy
To ensure you get the benefits of MCT oil while keeping your hair thick and healthy, keep these points in mind:
- Maintain Protein Intake: Don't let your "high-fat" diet become a "low-protein" diet. Aim for adequate protein to support hair keratin.
- Stay Hydrated: Use electrolytes like our Hydrate or Die formula to stay balanced, especially when transitioning into ketosis.
- Check Your Micronutrients: Ensure you are getting enough zinc, iron, and B vitamins.
- Use Clean MCTs: Avoid low-quality oils that might contain fillers or unrefined fats that aren't as bioavailable.
- Be Patient: If you are new to keto or a calorie deficit, give your body three months to find its "new normal."
If you want a deeper hydration breakdown, our Natural Electrolytes for Water guide is a helpful next step.
Key Takeaway: MCT oil does not cause hair loss. Hair thinning is a common side effect of the metabolic stress and nutrient gaps that occur when people start the very diets that popularized MCT oil. By prioritizing protein, micronutrients, and high-quality supplements, you can enjoy the energy of MCTs without compromising your hair.
Conclusion
The myth that MCT oil causes hair loss is a classic case of "correlation does not equal causation." While hair thinning can occur during periods of dietary change, MCT oil is a clean, efficient fuel source that can actually support your journey toward better health. By focusing on high-quality ingredients and a balanced approach to nutrition, you can power your adventures without worry.
If you are looking for a broader overview of how MCTs fit into your routine, explore How to Choose the Best MCT Oil for Your Lifestyle or browse our Boosts Collection for other clean, functional supplements.
At BUBS Naturals, we are committed to helping you live a life of purpose and performance. Our products are born from the legacy of Glen "BUB" Doherty, a Navy SEAL who lived life to the fullest. We carry that mission forward by sharing our Our Story and by following the Giving Back to Veterans & Our Communities commitment, including the 10% Rule. We also believe in quality and transparency, which is why our collagen products carry certifications including NSF for Sport.
Whether you are looking for the mental edge of MCTs or the recovery support of collagen, we are here to provide the tools you need. Take it one scoop at a time, listen to your body, and keep moving forward.
FAQ
Can I put MCT oil directly on my scalp to help hair grow?
While MCT oil is lightweight and has antimicrobial properties that can help with dandruff, there is no direct evidence that it stimulates hair growth when applied topically. It is generally better to ingest it for energy and metabolic health or use it as a "carrier oil" for scalp treatments if you struggle with fungal-related itching.
Why did my hair start thinning when I started taking MCT oil?
The thinning is likely due to "telogen effluvium," a temporary shedding caused by a major change in your diet or a caloric deficit. Since most people start taking MCT oil at the same time they start a strict low-carb or keto diet, the oil often gets blamed for the stress-response of the body adjusting to a new fuel source.
Is MCT oil better for my hair than coconut oil?
If you are applying it to your scalp, MCT oil (specifically C8 and C10) is often better because it does not clog pores or feed the yeast that causes dandruff. If you are eating it, MCT oil provides a faster energy source, though both can be part of a healthy diet as long as you maintain your protein and micronutrient levels.
What supplements help prevent hair thinning on a keto diet?
In addition to staying hydrated and eating enough protein, many people find that adding Collagen Peptides helps support hair, skin, and nails. Ensuring you have adequate levels of biotin, zinc, iron, and Vitamin D is also essential for maintaining hair density during a metabolic transition.
