On social media—especially TikTok—more and more videos claim that matcha tea can cause hair loss. But how much truth is behind this alarming claim? Let’s hear from the experts.
What’s Behind the TikTok Clips?
The story began when Michelle Ranavat, founder of a beauty brand, shared that after drinking a significant amount of matcha, she noticed increased hair loss. Blood tests showed low iron levels, and she suspected matcha might be interfering with iron absorption.
This sparked curiosity: is this a general rule or a unique case? And was her regular matcha intake really the cause of her hair loss?
What Do Experts Say?
Experts say there could be a connection—but only under very specific conditions. Hair follicles need oxygen and nutrients, including iron, to thrive. If iron is low, the hair growth cycle can get disrupted.
Teas like matcha are rich in polyphenols and tannins, which can reduce iron absorption because polyphenols bind to iron to some extent.
However, experts emphasize that drinking matcha in typical amounts is unlikely to cause hair loss. One to two cups a day probably won’t lead to hair thinning.
When Should You Worry?
For matcha tea to actually cause or worsen hair loss, three conditions need to be met at once: low iron or ferritin levels, drinking large amounts regularly (around 4–6 cups daily), and a diet mainly based on plant-based iron sources (since tannins affect plant iron absorption more).
If only one or two of these apply, the chance of hair loss is very low—meaning matcha is more likely an exception than a main cause.
What’s the Takeaway?
This internet trend, even if it has some scientific basis, doesn’t hold up as a real concern. If you enjoy matcha and don’t have iron deficiency, feel free to drink it.
But if you notice hair loss and know your iron or ferritin levels are low, it’s worth reviewing your diet and tea habits—and consulting a doctor.
Also, avoid drinking tea right at mealtime. Experts recommend having it an hour before or after eating to minimize its impact on iron absorption. Adding some vitamin C to your diet can also help boost iron uptake.
TikTok and similar platforms are great for discovering news, trends, and curiosities, but critical thinking and checking sources are key. For health questions, your best bet is always to ask your doctor or a healthcare professional.
