[Hinews] [Physician's Column] By Song Eun Seok, MOMO Plastic Surgery

Since the COVID-19 pandemic shifted preferences away from indoor gyms, running has surged in popularity. What began as an alternative has become a cultural movement, with marathon events oversubscribed and running gear sales flourishing. Running strengthens cardiovascular function, reduces body fat, and supports mental well-being. Yet, many runners overlook a potential drawback: its impact on scalp health and the risk of hair loss.

Running typically occurs outdoors, exposing the scalp to ultraviolet (UV) radiation for 30 minutes to over two hours. The scalp, highly vulnerable to UV damage, can suffer harm to its epidermal layer and skin barrier, leading to inflammation. Repeated exposure can lead to follicular atrophy, potentially causing new hair loss or worsening existing thinning. Even nighttime runs during summer carry risks—as excessive sweating, mixed with sebum and debris can clog pores, inflame the scalp, and weaken hair roots.

Dr. Song Eun Seok of MOMO Plastic Surgery emphasizes the importance of scalp care for runners
Dr. Song Eun Seok of MOMO Plastic Surgery emphasizes the importance of scalp care for runners


Hats worn by runners provide partial UV protection but, if poorly ventilated, can trap heat and moisture, fostering bacterial growth. Neglecting to wash hair after workouts or wearing sweat-soaked hats for prolonged periods can further compromise scalp health. Runners should select UV-protective, breathable hats and cleanse their scalp promptly post-exercise to remove sweat, sebum, and debris. Those with short hair can benefit from applying low-irritation sunscreen directly to the scalp for added protection.
For individuals with advanced hair loss, lifestyle adjustments alone may not suffice, and medical interventions like hair transplantation become necessary. Hair transplantation, which involves moving healthy follicles from the occipital or temporal scalp to balding areas, remains the only permanent solution for hair regrowth. Two primary techniques are used: strip harvesting (follicular unit transplantation) and individual follicle extraction (follicular unit extraction). Strip harvesting enables large-volume follicle transfer, ideal for extensive hair loss, while individual extraction minimizes scarring and speeds recovery.

A favored option is the two-block non-incisional technique, which conceals donor and recipient sites within a two-block haircut, making the procedure less noticeable. This technique leaves minimal scarring and enables patients to resume light activities, such as walking or jogging, within one to two weeks.

Although running provides substantial physical benefits, it may contribute to hair loss when the scalp experiences repeated stressed. Simple practices—thorough scalp cleansing, UV protection, and breathable headwear—can significantly reduce hair loss risks. For those already experiencing hair loss, early consultation with a medical professional is crucial to determine the most effective treatment.

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#HairLossPrevention#RunningHealth#ScalpCare
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