
An unspoken concern that many people have, and aren’t always comfortable opening up about, is hair loss. Hair thinning is a topic that is almost taboo, too awkward to talk about and too embarrassing to admit. For most, hair is closely tied to one’s identity or self expression, so losing it can affect confidence and cause stress. It is important for both men and women to acknowledge that they are not alone and that there are steps that can be taken to prevent hair loss. Identifying why you are experiencing hair loss is the first step to regain control.
Below, examine the common reasons for hair loss:
- Genetics
- Although we are unable to choose what genes get passed down to us, following the tips in this post could help slow down the process or reduce the amount of hair that is lost in the long run.
- Hormones
- DHT is a male testosterone that causes an imbalance in hormones that ultimately leads to hair loss in both men and women. Thyroid problems, menopause, and pregnancy can all cause permanent or temporary hair loss.
- Stress
- Stress has been proven to physically take a toll on one’s body and hair is not an exception. Traumatic events like extreme weight loss also leads to hair loss due to the sudden lack of nutrients one’s body is used to receiving.
- Excessive Hair Styling
- Bleach and harsh dyes can cause damage and breakage along with overly tight hairstyles such as braids, ponytails, buns, etc. Doing these things can unnecessarily weaken the hair so it’s crucial to be mindful of how you are treating so hair regrowth can be promoted.
- Diet
- Those who have deficiencies in vitamins and nutrients such as iron and protein, are likely to experience hair loss. Nutrients are needed to provide for both the body and hair so, having a poor diet deprives the hair of what it needs to maximize its growth.
Note: If you think your hair loss is due to a medical condition or of greater concern, please see a doctor or professional.
What You Can Do:
- Pay attention to what you are putting on your scalp
- We often don’t take the time to analyze what is in our products―quite frankly, we buy products due to hype or reviews from other people. Ingredients such as sulfates, parabens, silicones, and mineral oil are just some of the few to avoid for healthier hair. Instead, look for natural ingredients that will stimulate hair growth such as biotin and peppermint oil. A good resource to check ingredient safety is the Environmental Working Group’s site, https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/.
- Supplements
- Protein and iron are common deficiencies that is tied to hair loss. After consulting your doctor, consider taking supplements for these to strengthen your hair. It also may be worth taking the time to research hair supplements and how effective it is for encouraging hair growth.
- Eat balanced meals
- Make sure your body is receiving the nutrients it needs. Many vitamins and nutrients found in supplements can more easily (and more cost effectively) be added to your diet! Smoothies are a great way to make a delicious and personalized blend to suit what your body needs.
- Volumizing hair styling
- A temporary fix to thin hair is to use products that give the illusion of having fuller hair with products such as dry shampoo, texturizing spray, thickening hair spray, and root cover up. If you have fine hair, wear your hair with texture and try to avoid heat styling tools as it can cause more breakage. For example, people with longer hair can wear their hair in a braid to sleep at night and those with shorter hair could try styling with mousse in the morning.
- Take a moment to destress
- Because of how easy it is to get caught up with school, work, or personal issues, we often forget to take time for ourselves. No issue is worth worrying over to where it negatively affects your physical and mental health. Invest in yourself by getting more sleep, indulging in your hobbies, and spending time with those you care about.
There is not a single guaranteed solution that will definitely restore hair growth and prevent hair loss, rather, there are a compilation of steps you can take to set the foundation for your hair to be as strong as possible. A product worth taking a look at is The Greenery Lab’s Perilla Fo-ti Thickening Shampoo and Conditioner, considering it is a clinically proven formula and is EWG verified! The products are free of sulfates, parabens, and silicones and is clinically proven to work after only 8 weeks of usage.
The Greenery Lab Recommended Products: Perilla Fo-ti Growth and Thickening Shampoo and Conditioner
Clinically proven and EWG verified formula uses natural extracts to prevent and reduce hair loss while thickening hair fibers and healing the scalp. Both products are sulfate, paraben, and cruelty free.