When faced with hair loss, many people aren’t sure where to turn for help. They often try to hide the problem by changing their part or hairstyle, buy products that come with claims that they can restore hair, or take vitamins and other supplements sold specifically for hair growth. Some women even scale back on how often they shampoo. The results from these efforts are often modest at best and rarely get to the root of the problem. If you’re experiencing hair loss, here’s what experts recommend.
1. Make an Appointment with a Board-Certified Dermatologist
When faced with hair loss, the first step you should take is to make an appointment with a board-certified dermatologist. Hair loss has so many causes, from genetic factors to underlying health conditions, and the sooner you find the cause, the better your chance of getting the results you want. A dermatologist is a doctor trained to diagnose conditions that affect the skin, hair, and nails. They can get to the root of the problem and, in many cases, successfully treat hair loss. In 2024, finding the right dermatologist could be the key to addressing your hair loss effectively.
2. Wash and Condition Your Hair Without Traumatizing It
When faced with hair loss, it’s crucial to handle your hair with care. Hair that’s thinning or falling out is fragile and easily damaged. Experts recommend using a gentle shampoo that doesn’t strip moisture from your hair. After every shampoo, apply a moisturizing conditioner to coat your strands, reducing breakage and split ends. You can also make use of a leave-in conditioner or detangler, which helps reduce breakage, split ends, and frizz. Additionally, wrapping your hair in a microfiber towel to help it dry more quickly can minimize the time you spend blow-drying, further protecting your fragile hair.
3. Forgo Hot-Oil Treatments
When faced with hair loss, you may be tempted to try various treatments, but it’s best to forgo hot-oil treatments. These treatments heat up the hair, which can further damage fragile strands. If you’re looking for ways to strengthen your hair, there are better alternatives that don’t involve the risk of additional heat damage.
4. Avoid At-Home Chemical Treatments
When faced with hair loss, it’s wise to avoid at-home colouring, perming, chemical straightening, and relaxing. These processes can be harsh on already fragile hair. If you desire these services, find a salon that specialises in them and has professionals who can examine your scalp and hair to find the most suitable product. Ensure the salon uses a moisturising conditioner afterward to help mitigate any potential damage.
5. Limit Your Use of Heat-Styling Tools
When faced with hair loss, limiting your use of curling irons, flat irons, and hot combs is essential. These tools heat up your hair, which can weaken it further. Try to reserve their use for special occasions, such as a wedding or job interview. In everyday situations, embracing a more natural style can help preserve the health of your hair.
6. Use the Lowest Heat Setting on Your Blow-Dryer
When faced with hair loss, it’s important to use the lowest heat setting on your blow-dryer. If possible, let your hair dry naturally rather than using a blow-dryer. Wrapping wet hair in a microfiber towel can help it dry more quickly, reducing the need for heat and thus preventing further damage to your hair.
7. Stop Wearing Tightly Pulled-Back Hairstyles
When faced with hair loss, avoid wearing your hair tightly pulled back in a bun, ponytail, pigtails, cornrows, or braids. Frequently wearing hairstyles that pull on your hair can cause a type of hair loss called traction alopecia. Over time, anything that pulls on your hair can lead to permanent hair loss. Adopting looser, less restrictive hairstyles can help prevent this type of damage.
8. Break the Habit of Twisting or Pulling Your Hair
When faced with hair loss, you should try to stop any habits of twisting your hair around your finger or pulling on it. These habits can further weaken already fragile hair, leading to more hair loss. Being mindful of these actions and finding alternative ways to keep your hands occupied can help you protect your hair from additional stress.
9. Brush or Comb Your Hair Gently
When faced with hair loss, be gentle when brushing or combing your hair. Tugging on your hair while brushing or combing it can lead to more hair loss. Instead, brush or comb your hair only enough to style it, using gentle strokes to minimise stress on your strands.
10. Quit Smoking
When faced with hair loss, quitting smoking can be one of the most beneficial steps you can take. Smoking causes inflammation throughout the body, which can worsen hair loss. By quitting, you not only improve your overall health but also create a better environment for hair growth.
11. Eat a Healthy Diet
When faced with hair loss, maintaining a healthy diet is crucial. If you’re not getting enough of certain nutrients, such as iron or protein, this can lead to hair loss. Additionally, eating too few calories every day can cause significant hair loss. To combat this, focus on a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients that support hair health. Including a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can make a difference.
12. Be Cautious with Supplements
When faced with hair loss, you might consider taking supplements marketed for hair growth. However, it’s important to be cautious. Before taking a supplement, find out whether you’re getting enough of certain vitamins or minerals by consulting with a healthcare professional and possibly getting a blood test. The supplements advertised for hair growth are not always regulated for safety and effectiveness. In some cases, getting too much of certain nutrients, like selenium, Vitamin A, and Vitamin E, has been linked to hair loss. Consulting with a board-certified dermatologist can help you determine the best approach tailored to your individual needs.
when faced with hair loss, taking the right steps is crucial. By consulting with a board-certified dermatologist, handling your hair gently, avoiding harmful treatments, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, you can improve your chances of preserving and restoring your hair. With expert advice and careful care, you can address hair loss effectively in 2024.
Social Media Icons