When it comes to hair loss, there is no one-size-fits-all remedy that works for everyone. What works for you might not work for your bestie or the remedy you swear by might yield no results for someone else. The reasons for hair loss in men and women are distinct and hence, need to be dealt with differently.
In order to find the best hair loss treatment, it is important that we identify the hair loss causes correctly. The first step towards overcoming the problem of hair loss is to identify the intensity and type of hair loss which might range from thinning of hair to spot baldness (alopecia areata) to losing over 100 strands of hair a day. Remember, the loss of 80-100 strands of hair a day is considered normal. Hair fall problem is very common especially during rainy season. And to prevent hair loss, this monsoon hair routine can surely come to your rescue.
3 Common Reasons Of Hair Loss
Our lifestyle choices have a gradual but definite effect on hair health. The most generic causes of hair loss include:
1. Weight Loss
A very drastic weight loss is often followed by hair loss. This is because while cutting calories, we often end up consuming fewer nutrients. Also, a rigorous weight loss regime requires a reduced intake of fats, some of which could be good fats which are necessary for hair vitality.
2. Pregnancy And Childbirth
The hormonal changes that take place in the female body during pregnancy and childbirth also have an effect on the hair quality. Many women lose hair during the breastfeeding period also.
3. Use Of Heat
Excessive use of curling irons, straighteners and other styling devices are also contributing factors to hair loss. Prolonged exposure to heat from these devices causes hair to become dry and brittle.Â
Tip: Quickly take a look on how to stop hair fall in rainy season and enjoy monsoons happily.
Top 5 Medical Reasons For Hair Loss
The proven medical reasons for losing hair are:
- Hormonal imbalance
- Genetic disorders
- Thyroid
- PCOD
- Nutrient deficiencies
6 Natural Hair Loss Treatments For Women
Hair loss situations don’t always require medical attention. If you are observant enough to notice unusual hair loss early on, the problem can be nipped in the bud. With just a little care and precaution, some very simple but promising gharelu nuskhe can prove effective in battling hair loss.
1. Oil Massage
Remember the time our nani-dadis would insist on putting oil in our hair. Turns out that regularly massaging your scalp with essential oils and applying oil to your hair activates the hair follicles. It stimulates the growth of new healthy hair and proves to be an effective home remedy for hair growth.
2. Eating Healthy
Healthy hair starts from the inside out. How often do we grab a pizza slice because it is a convenient meal option? What we don’t realise then is that it not only affects our waistline but also the health of our hair. A good diet that is rich in protein works wonders for the quality of hair. Consider adding more almonds, fish, soy and paneer to your diet. A balanced and nutritious diet helps to keep the hair strong and healthy.
3. Say Bye To Heat
Although a fresh blow-dry totally lifts up your overall look, using heat on your hair too often can lead to hair loss. It is advised to keep the exposure of hair to heat minimal. It will also be beneficial to use a heat resistant product every time you indulge in some styling.
4. Say Yes To De-Stress
Unfortunately, stress has become an inherent part of the life of a modern woman. With so many roles to excel at, mental peace does take a backseat. It is this stress that becomes one of the reasons for hair loss. Daily meditation, breathing techniques and some basic yoga asanas done regularly can help beat stress, benefiting your pretty tresses amongst other things.
5. Nutritional Supplements
The deficiency of vitamins A, B12 and C, or low levels of iron, biotin and zinc in the body can be one of the most compelling hair loss causes. A thorough blood count can help identify what it is that your body needs. There are numerous supplements now available that help in replenishing lost nutrients levels in the body which will gradually help you deal with hair loss.
6. Hair Loss Shampoos
Amongst the most basic things to do while dealing with the loss of hair is to start using a gentle shampoo which is devoid of harsh chemicals. There are many shampoos available that are proven to be effective in dealing with hair loss.
6 Ayurvedic Treatments For Hair Loss That Truly Work
The 5,000-year school of Ayurveda is a treasure trove of solutions for all kinds of human health and holistic problems, including loss of hair. With growing global exposure, people all over the world are now benefitting from the science of Ayurveda and new potions are being created using combinations of ayurvedic compounds to beat hair loss.
1. Bhringraj
Bhringraj oil is the superhero of Ayurvedic medicine. It is used to cure a whole array of health issues, hair loss being one of them. The anti-inflammatory properties of this oil help in keeping the scalp clear of any allergies. A gentle massage with this oil also promotes the growth of new hair follicles and helps make the hair shiny and glossy.
2. Amla
It is very common to see amla (Indian gooseberry) as a primary ingredient on numerous hair product labels. It is known to bring strength and shine to hair. The beneficial fatty acids present in amla promote strengthening of the hair follicles. The most effective way of using amla for hair health is to dry the fruit completely, powder it and then add it to your hair oil. Readymade dry amla powder is also freely available in the markets.
3. Hibiscus Flower Extract
The bright red hibiscus flowers which are so commonly found almost everywhere in India are a natural elixir for hair consisting of alpha-hydroxy acids, amino acids and vitamins A and C. To get optimum benefits out of the flower, add the flowers to any oil of your choice and boil till the colour of the oil changes. Use this oil regularly for a healthy mane. Not only does the extract of this flower help in fighting hair loss but also makes the hair shiny and lustrous.
4. Brahmi
Brahmi leaves when added to methi seeds (fenugreek) help in tackling eczema and ulcers on the scalp. The power backed duo contains alkaloids, fibre, potassium, lysine and iron which ends up making your hair soft, strong and thick. To extract maximum goodness out of these ingredients, heat them both with any carrier oil and let them infuse in it for a good 2 days. Transfer the oil to a bottle and keep in a dark, cool place. Massage on the scalp often.
5. Curry Leaves (Kadi Patta)
Who would have thought that your everyday companion in the kitchen is a powerhouse of beta-carotene and can repair your hair roots like a charm! Just boil 40 curry leaves (kadi patta) or so in coconut oil, cool for a day and massage to see the magic. You can also use ghee for hair to stop hair fall immediately.
6. Moringa Oil
The moringa leaf is a nutrient-dense Ayurvedic find that packs a punch with impressive levels of calcium, vitamins A and C, potassium and iron, all of which are wonderful for hair vitality. Usage of moringa oil on the scalp is a time tested Ayurvedic remedy for enhancing hair strength and health.
Top 5 Homoeopathic Treatments For Hair Loss
Homoeopathy is a very popular line of medication which has proven to be very effective in the long run. An important reason why most people choose homoeopathy to tackle hair loss causes is that it is free from any kind of side effects. Homeopathic medication for hair loss problems varies depending on the reasons for hair loss.
1. Pulsatilla Prantesis and Natrum Muriaticum
Pregnancy and childbirth cause a lot of changes in a woman’s body resulting in other problems like hair loss. A woman loses a lot of hair during pregnancy and breastfeeding, which subsides with time for most women. But for the others, medical intervention is required. Along with battling hair loss, using Pulsatilla Prantesis and Natrum Muriaticum also helps a woman deal with anaemia and helps restore her iron levels.
2. Baryta Carbonica
One of the popular choices in homeopathic medicine, Baryta Carbonica is used especially for women who experience spot baldness along with itching of the scalp. Regular use of the medication is said to gradually but steadily help battle hair problems.
3. Mezereum, Kall Sulphuricum and Psorinum
Very rarely do women recognise dandruff as a serious hair problem. Hair fall can also be a result of excessive dandruff on the scalp. In such cases, homeopathic doctors recommend the use of Mezereum, Kall Sulphuricum and Psorinum. In addition to fighting dandruff, these ingredients also help deal with psoriasis, scalp irritation and rashes.
4. Vinca Minor and Fluoric Acid
Bald patches are known as Alopecia Areata. It is an autoimmune disorder that causes the body to view the hair as a foreign object and fight it. Vinca Minor and fluoric acid assist in the release of hydrofluoric acid that battles the condition and helps the hair to grow as intended.
5. Lycopodium Clavatum, Phosphorus
Hormonal imbalances caused by menopause or disruptions in ovarian functions are the causes of hair loss in older women. Statistics state that an approximate 45% of Indian women begin to see signs of baldness by the time they hit 50. A combination of Lycopodium Clavatum and Phosphorous is a promising remedy for these women.
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can Keratin treatments cause hair loss?
A. Keratin is advertised to be a quick solution to manage wavy hair, but the process involves prolonged usage of heating products and harmful chemicals like formaldehyde. Hence, keratin might end up leading in hair loss instead of making them manageable.
Q. Is a birth control pill to be blamed for hair loss?
A. Some women might experience hair loss after consumption of birth control pills. The hormonal fluctuations in the body caused by the pill may change the hair cycle, resulting in hair loss.
Q. Will colouring the hair result in hair loss?
A. Amongst other chemicals, hair colour consists of ammonia and hydrogen peroxide. Both of these are harsh on the hair and can weaken the hair, resulting in hair loss.
Q. How long does it take for a hair loss treatment to show results?
A. The result of every person differs depending on the intensity of the problem and kind of treatment. However, keeping in mind the length of the hair growth cycle, it is recommended to wait 6-7 months to ascertain the effect of the treatment.
Q. Is QOD treatment good for hair?
A. QOD is a treatment that uses less harsh chemicals and is safe for damaged hair. Thus, QOD might be a better choice when compared to Keratin. However, both the procedures do involve the use of heat products. It must be noted that unlike Keratin, QOD does not involve changing the molecular structure of the hair, so it is definitely a safer option.