For some, the idea of having less or no hair can be a frightening thought. Many suffer from both male and female pattern baldness and looking for ways to manage their condition is something they may consider.
Hair loss is a sensitive issue for many people, but there are ways you can help to manage your hair loss and keep your head looking healthy. Washing your hair regularly will not only reduce oil build-up and unclog pores in the scalp, but also give you a much-needed self-esteem boost.
To begin with, let’s look at the main causes of hair loss:
What Causes Hair Loss?
It is vital to know that our hair growth has three distinct stages. These stages are active growth, resting, and shedding. As mentioned earlier, even an individual who is not experiencing any excessive hair loss can lose around 100 hairs per day.
Hair loss tends to come with aging. It tends to affect men earlier than it does women. 50% of men may experience androgenic alopecia at the age of 40. On the other hand, at the age of 70, about 50% of women will experience female pattern baldness.
If you notice that the hair loss you are currently experiencing is patchy or sudden, it is best to consult a doctor. This is because it may be a symptom of an even larger condition. Other factors that can cause hair loss are the following:
- Radiation treatment
- Certain medications, like those for arthritis, high blood pressure, and depression.
- Stress
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Hormonal changes due to thyroid problems, menopause, pregnancy, or childbirth.
- Excessive hairstyling
Hair Loss Tips
Below are hair loss tips that can help you out:
Mediterranean Diet
The Mediterranean diet is a meal plan containing fresh herbs and raw vegetables. It may help reduce the risk of having androgenic alopecia or the onset of this condition. Androgenic alopecia is known as pattern baldness both male and female may experience. Below are food suggestions part of the Mediterranean diet that have shown the best results in combatting hair loss:
- Basil
- Parsley
- Salad greens
It is recommended to consume the foods above more than three days a week.
Protein
Our hair is composed of keratin, a type of protein. Consuming a diet rich in protein is recommended by experts to prevent hair loss. Your food choices may include:
- Nuts
- Chicken
- Turkey
- Eggs
- Peas
- Bean
- Fish
- Low-fat dairy products
Vitamin A
Vitamin A has been shown to help increase your hair growth rate. It also helps with your sebum production, which maintains your scalp healthy and retains more hairs. Consider including vitamin A-rich foods in your diet:
- Sweet peppers
- Sweet potatoes
- Spinach
Medications
Some of the most common medications for hair loss are finasteride and minoxidil. They are considered over-the-counter drugs that help you with your hair loss problem. Although these drugs carry the same goal, you might experience some side effects. It is best to research finasteride vs. minoxidil side effects to know which medication is better for you.
Multivitamin
According to scientists, vitamins A, B, C, D, selenium, iron, and zinc are vital to your hair growth and retention processes. You can buy your multivitamins at most drugstores or groceries. Moreover, you can also choose to ask your doctor to prescribe a multivitamin for you.
Laser Therapy
For people who experience hair loss due to heredity or chemotherapy, a low-level laser may help improve your hair density. This option is known as red light therapy; it works by stimulating your epidermal stem cells.
Platelet-rich Plasma
When you choose to inject platelet-rich plasma (PRP) into your scalp, it will help stimulate hair growth in areas that have already been affected by hair loss. A session of this medical treatment typically costs around $500 to $1,000. To know more, it is recommended to consult a doctor.
Regular Washing
Washing your hair every day can help protect yourself from hair loss. Washing is a great way to maintain a clean and healthy scalp. Moreover, it is best to use a mild shampoo when washing your hair because harsher formulas might make your hair dry and cause it to break.
Coconut Oil
Research suggests that coconut oil is great for preventing hair damage from UV light exposure and grooming. The lauric acid found in coconut oil aids in binding protein in your hair, which protects your hair from the breakage at the strand and the roots. Massaging some coconut oil in your scalp may help regrowth and encourage better blood flow.
Gentle Styling
It is recommended to skip the ponytails and braids that may cause a strong pull on the root of your hair and potentially lead to excessive shedding. Moreover, it is best to let your hair air dry to avoid any irritation in the scalp.
To Sum It Up
An individual can lose about 100 hairs per day. This is the normal count that most people experience. However, several people tend to experience excessive hair loss. Fortunately for them, several ways can help stop the onset or prevent such hair loss.
