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Getting the latest healthcare news for you
Getting the latest healthcare news for you
Millions are watching hair loss videos on YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram — but most of that content isn't coming from doctors and isn't trustworthy. A new study found that quality and reliability scores for 156 viral hair loss videos were strikingly low, with dermatologists calling for more evidence-based content on these platforms.
Scrolling for a hair loss fix? You might want to think twice. A new study published in the International Journal of Dermatology analyzed 156 hair loss videos across YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram — each racking up a median of 445,415 views — and found that the quality and reliability of information were consistently poor. The most common creators weren't doctors, but people sharing their own hair loss experiences (31.4%), with dermatologists coming in second at just 26.9%.
When dermatologists did create content, it was significantly better — they were far more likely to recommend guideline-supported treatments and scored higher on both quality and reliability metrics. A major concern: only 6.5% of videos mentioned potential risks or adverse events from treatments.
By the Numbers:
Why it matters: With social media now a go-to source for medical information, misleading hair loss content reaching hundreds of thousands of viewers is a real concern. Experts are urging dermatologists and professional organizations to step up and fill the gap with accurate, diagnosis-focused, evidence-based content.
