In today’s fast-paced lifestyle, many people, from the young to the old, are suffering from hair loss. Although it is a natural process to lose a little bit of hair every day, it can be a cause for concern if the hair loss continues to increase or the hair on the head appears to be thinning. According to experts, this problem may be indicative of some changes in the body, wrong habits or health reasons. However, it is possible to control hair loss if the cause is identified at the right time.
Assure Clinic founder and dermatologist Dr. Abhishek Pilani has given some important and practical tips to reduce hair loss. According to him, improving hair health can improve daily habits without resorting to any miracle cures.
It is considered normal to lose about 50 to 100 hairs per day. Hair goes through stages of growth, relaxation and shedding. Seasonal changes, illness or stress can cause temporary hair loss. However, if this loss lasts for a long time, increases suddenly or the density of hair decreases, it is necessary to pay attention in time.
Improper hair care can be one of the major reasons behind hair loss. Combing wet hair vigorously, tying tight braids or ponytails, toweling vigorously weakens hair roots. As wet hair is more fragile, it is safer to comb gently with a wide-toothed comb.
There are also many misconceptions about hair washing habits. How often to wash hair depends on one’s scalp type. Oily scalps require regular washing, while dry scalps require less frequent washing. But it is very important to use a mild and scalp safe shampoo. Dirt, oil and sweat accumulated on the scalp can increase hair loss. Conditioner should always be applied to the ends of the hair, not directly to the scalp.
Hair health is directly linked to diet. Deficiency of protein, iron, vitamin D and B-complex increases hair loss. A sudden change in diet, starvation or an unbalanced diet can cause hair loss after a few months. So green leafy vegetables, pulses, fruits, seeds, pulses and adequate protein should be in the diet.
Mental stress also has a major impact on hair. Constant stress pushes the hair follicles into a resting state, which causes hair loss after a few weeks. Sufficient sleep, regular exercise, meditation can keep stress under control.
Also, frequent hair straightening, coloring, rebonding or excessive use of heat weakens the hair. It is beneficial to pause such treatments if possible. Dandruff, fungal infections or other scalp problems should not be ignored.
A dermatologist should be consulted if there is a sudden increase in hair loss, patchy baldness or other physical symptoms. With timely diagnosis and treatment, the problem of hair loss can be controlled to a large extent.
