What Causes Hair Loss?
To understand the reasons behind thinning hair, it's essential to know what causes it. Several factors can cause hair loss, including genetics, hormonal changes, stress, and poor nutrition [1]. However, your daily habits can influence whether you experience hair thinning. Adopting healthy habits can help prevent hair loss and support the overall health and growth of your hair.
1. Avoid Sugar in Your Diet
Excess sugar can impact your hair health, according to a study published in Nutrients [2] which found that men who consumed sweet drinks regularly were more likely to notice hair loss. High sugar intake may also contribute to scalp inflammation, which can damage hair follicles and inhibit growth [3]. Focus on a balanced diet to support hair health!
2. Wash Your Hair Regularly
How often you wash your hair depends on your hair type. Most experts agree that washing hair daily is not necessary for most people. Those with oily hair may need to wash more frequently, while those with dry scalps can wash less often [4]. Regular washing helps remove dirt and oil that can clog hair pores, potentially reducing hair loss [5].
If you aim to wash your hair every two three days [6], this will help keep it clean and get rid of build-up on the roots of the hair.
For the best care for your hair and scalp, use lukewarm water when hair washing rather than hot, as hot water can damage your hair and hair follicles.
3. Let Your Hair Air Dry
We know there are occasions where you have to style your hair, but keep in mind overusing heated styling tools such as hair dryers, hair straighteners or curling tongs can cause your hair to become brittle or even cause coarse hair, creating cracks in the cuticle of your hair [7]. When possible, let your hair air dry instead of using heat-based tools, or if you have to use a hair dryer, use it at a distance of 15cm. This simple adjustment can help promote healthy hair and increase hair strength, leaving you with shinier hair and less breakage.
4. Don’t Overbrush
Frequent brushing can damage your hair and cause breakage [8], particularly if your hair is wet. Using a wide-toothed comb on wet hair can help detangle your hair gently and prevent damage. By reducing brushing frequency, you can minimise hair damage and help prevent hair loss, while stimulating your hair follicles.
Avoiding rigorously towel-drying your hair can also form healthy hair habits that will help you in keeping your hair.
5. Use Specialised Hair Products
Choosing the right hair care products is essential for healthy hair. Look for shampoos and conditioners that match your hair type and target specific needs like hydration or volume. If your hair is dry, hair treatments or a hair mask that contains ingredients such as coconut oil [9], or argan oil [10] (even applied to the ends of your hair) can treat hair damage and help you ensure healthy growth. Proper hair care routine and hair habits can make a noticeable difference in healthy hair growth. Additionally, you can also opt for specific hair growth products based on your hair needs.
6. Eat a Balanced Diet
A diet rich in healthy fats, protein, and vitamins is essential for healthy hair growth [11]. Foods like salmon, eggs, nuts, and leafy greens provide the nutrients your hair follicles need to thrive, and can make your hair grow faster.
Some of the best food to eat for hair loss [11]:
- Salmon (high in omega-3 fatty acids)
- Eggs (high in biotin)
- Oysters (high in zinc) [12]
- Nuts (high is zinc and fatty acids)
- Avocado (high in vitamin E) [13]
- Leafy greens (vitamin A)
- Legumes (zinc)
This not only supports overall hair health but can also help hair naturally grow stronger and thicker.
7. Reduce Stress
Stress is a major factor when it comes to hair shed [14]. Research shows that chronic stress can disrupt the cycle of hair growth, leading to thinning hair and hair loss [15].
“Long-term, or chronic, stress puts people at risk for a variety of health problems,” read the study notes.
“These can include depression and anxiety, as well as problems with digestion and sleep. Chronic stress has also long been linked to hair loss.”
Incorporating relaxation techniques into your routine can help maintain healthier hair and help your hair grow.
8. Protect Your Hair from the Sun
We shield our skin from the sun in order to protect it, and the same is true for protecting your hair from the sun.
“Sun damage can come in the form of discoloration, dry and brittle strands, broken or split ends, thinning and frizziness,” dermatologist Wilma Begfeld says in an interview with the Cleveland Clinic [16].
“The sun’s rays act very much like bleach on hair,” explains Dr. Bergfeld. “Bleach reacts with the melanin in hair and removes the colour in an irreversible chemical reaction. Bleach also damages the hair’s cuticle and protein, which is called keratin.
”Exposure to UV rays can damage your hair and cause it to become dry and brittle."
To protect your hair, wear a hat or use hair products with UV protection when you're outdoors. This will help maintain the vibrant hair and hair strength you desire.
9. Use a Silk Pillowcase
Switching to a silk pillowcase can help keep hair smooth and reduce friction that can lead to breakage [17]. Silk helps retain moisture, which is especially beneficial for those with dry hair. It’s a small change that can make a big difference in maintaining healthy hair.
10. Stay Hydrated
Hydration is key to healthy hair. Drinking enough water helps maintain a healthy scalp and ensures that your hair shaft stays hydrated. This helps prevent brittle hair and promotes optimal hair growth.