Thinning hair and receding hairlines affect many of us as we age. It can be a source of consternation and embarrassment for all the obvious reasons, not least of which is that we see ourselves aging.
What Are the Causes of Hair Loss?
Most hair loss has nothing to do with diet, illness, or lifestyle. Predetermined genetic factors tend to play the chief role. Hair thinning and loss often starts in our 30s and 40s, though it can also begin earlier or later.
But those other factors may also contribute to hair loss, like poor nutrition (for instance, protein deprivation caused by dieting), emotional trauma, and body changes (in women, pregnancy or menopause). Several health conditions, including thyroid disease and iron deficiency anemia, can also have an impact.
Can Hair Loss Be Slowed?
While hair loss may be hard to stop, there are things that you can do (and not do) in order to prevent any unwanted acceleration of thinning hair or receding hairline.
• Refrain from brushing hair until it seems necessary. We all shed hair daily, but excessive brushing may cause additional hair breakage, which is best avoided. Some hair, if broken, will not regrow.
• Refrain from excessive shampooing of hair because this can also cause hair to fall out. Rather than washing hair daily, spread out hair washing over two or more days. Also, consider using shampoos that directly address hair breakage and strengthen hair, as well as hair conditioner that can help repair damage.
• Avoid hair products that give a sheen to hair, like gels and pomades. Products that absorb light will highlight bare spots on the scalp. Look for hair products that are gentler on the hair and less shiny. Styling cream may be one alternative to consider.
• Avoid unnecessary roughness, such as dry or rough towels and scratchy pillowcases.
• Avoid pulling hair. While this can be a hard-to-break habit, it is one that should be avoided at all costs.
• Avoid excessive tightness or pulling on hair. For women, this might mean ponytails or other tight hairstyles. For both men and women, this means avoid hats that are tight and can pull hair with them.
• Make sure to keep a healthy diet. There is a relationship between hair strength and healthy eating. Include vitamin and mineral rich food in meals, such as fresh vegetables, which assist in re-growing and strengthening hair.
As a specialist in hair restoration for Bala Cynwyd residents and others in our region, I invite you to visit my office to discuss hair loss. Together, we can find the right treatment for you.
Take the Next Step
Want to learn if a Hair Restoration is right for you? Schedule a consultation at Dr. Farole’s Facial Cosmetic Surgery Center in Bala Cynwyd, PA by giving us a call at (610) 668-3300 today.
Sources:
The Belgravia Center
Examiner.com
Medicine.net
