by Published: October 11, 2023, 8:30 p.m. IST
Thick, luscious hair is everyone’s dream, but the sad reality is that hair loss is becoming more and more common these days. We have a preconceived idea that only men suffer from baldness after a certain age, but it doesn’t happen exclusively to men! Female hair loss is a growing concern and women can lose tons of hair in the process. Although aging can be one of the factors leading to hair loss, several other factors play a central role here! Once you know the cause, you may be able to stop hair loss too!
Health Shots contacted Dr. Rinky Kapoor, Consultant Dermatologist, Cosmetic Dermatologist and Dermato-Surgeon, The Esthetic Clinics, Mumbai, to know more about hair loss.
What are the common causes of hair loss in women?
Common causes of hair loss in women include:
1. Hormonal changes
Pregnancy, childbirth, thyroid problems and menopause are some of the common hormonal changes that can lead to hair loss. Any hormonal imbalance can lead to hair loss in women. You may need hormone treatment or medication to resolve the problem.
2. Genetics
Androgenic alopecia is a hereditary condition that can affect some women.
3. Stress
Physical or emotional shock can cause hair loss in many women. Practicing relaxation techniques can also help manage stress and reduce risk.
Read also: Does stress cause hair loss? Easy Home Remedies for Hair Growth
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4. Nutritional deficiencies
A deficiency of biotin, folate, vitamin B12, and riboflavin are some of the common nutritional deficiencies that can lead to hair loss problems. Nutritional deficiencies can be addressed through dietary changes or supplements.
5. Certain medical conditions
Conditions such as alopecia areata or scalp infections may be causing a problem that needs to be addressed by your doctor.
6. Medicines
Certain medications given to treat conditions such as arthritis, depression, hypertension, high blood pressure, and cancer may increase the risk of hair loss. You will need to consult a healthcare professional to change medications.
7. Hairdressing practices
With so many styling products on the market, it can be hard to resist. But overusing these harsh hair products, tying your hair too tightly or certain hair treatments can damage the hair. It is better to refrain from these problems.
How to stop hair loss?
Hair loss can be avoided if you follow these lifestyle changes, as suggested by Dr. Rinky Kapoor:
1. Eat a balanced diet
Poor diet and nutritional deficiencies can affect both hair growth and structure, according to a study published in Dermatology Practical and Conceptual. You need to make sure you include enough nutrients, including protein, iron, and vitamins (especially B-complex vitamins), in your diet. It is one of the best ways to monitor the health of your hair.
2. Scalp massage
You need to nourish your scalp gently if you want your hair to be healthy and strong. Massage your scalp regularly to improve blood circulation, which will help promote healthy hair production. Studies have shown that people who perform scalp massages regularly experience less hair loss.
3. Gentle hair care
Do you spend a lot on hair treatments like keratin, hair coloring, etc. ? These harsh hair treatments could be the reason why you are losing your hair. You should also minimize the use of heated styling products, as they can make the situation worse for those suffering from hair loss. You should also avoid tight hairstyles as they can put pressure on the hair follicles and lead to hair loss.
4. Stress management
Stress is one of the main factors contributing to hair loss. A study published by the National Institutes of Health found that stress hormones alter stem cells vital for hair growth in mice. It is therefore important to practice stress reduction techniques like yoga or meditation to avoid stress.
5. Stay hydrated
We tend to downplay the importance of drinking water. It is essential to drink 2-3 liters of water every day to not only maintain hair health but also to maintain overall health.
Dr. Kapoor says the ability to reverse hair loss naturally depends on a variety of factors, including the underlying cause, genetics, and stage of hair loss. In some cases, natural methods can slow or partially reverse hair loss, advanced cases or certain conditions may require medical treatments and medications.
