Losing hair can occur due to a variety of reasons ranging from health problems to hair connected accidents or even as a natural occurrence. At some point in our lives we’re all affected by hair loss. The most common causes of hair loss include:
- Aging process. When we get old we’re expected to lose hair at a faster rate.
- Traction alopecia. Is hair loss caused by having tight ponytails or braids.
- Tinea capitis. Is a fungal infection in the head that affects children and leaves the head with patchy hair loss.
- Alopecia areata. Is when the whole scalp loses hair or leads tthinning.
- Telogen effluvium. Rapid shedding of hair after weight loss or giving birth.
- Vitamins deficiency. Lack of certain nutrients in ones diet can lead to hair loss or thinning.
- Stress can lead to hormonal imbalance leading to hair loss.
- Its the name given to the condition where an individual develops a habit of plucking or pulling the hair from their head.
- Androgenic hairloss. Commonly referred to as baldness, it occurs when the hair follicles begin to change and shrink which leans to the hair thinning.
How to treat hairloss
Give your hair time
In cases like telogen effluvium, all you have to do is give your hair time. This condition probably means your hair went through its full cycle at a faster rate than normal thus the shedding. Waiting it out for it to grow back is recommended with the only condition being you should stay stress free. Experiencing stress might prevent hair from growing. Hair will regrow eventually, it might start out a different shade but soon enough you’ll have your hair back to its natural color.
Use medication
When your hair loss is hereditary, like in balding, your doctor can prescribe medication to prevent early onset. Androgenic alopecia can be controlled by drugs like minoxidil. Thyroid hormones can also be recommended for people who are suffering from hypothyroidism and losing hair. Skin conditions like tinea capitis can be given antifungal medication to cure the fungal infection. When it clears then the hair starts growing normally.
Eating Right
Conditions like iron and vitamin deficiency can be cured by a well balanced diet. Seek out food that are high in vitamins, proteins and iron to boost your system. This will in turn increase hair growth and make it stronger. You can also take up supplements made specifically for hair loss with ingredients like biotin and silica. Avoiding caffeine also helps maintain hair growth.
Hair styling care
When dealing with hair, avoid appliances that overheat like curling irons. Its recommended that you set your appliances to low settings so that you dont burn your hair or weaken it with too much heat. Professionals suggest that when you decide to dye your hair, stick to a maximum of two shades your normal colors. The more severe the color change, the higher your chances of damaging your hair. When it comes to tying your hair, be gentle and allow it to breath. Avoid hairstyles that are too tight or confining.
Conclusion
Hair loss is a normal part of life, it only becomes a problem when it gets extreme. Practising hair care and eating right are the first steps to ensuring your hair stays strong. However, if you suspect your hair loss is caused by something genetic please consult your doctor.