The topic of hair loss or hair thinning often proves to be a subject that many people are somewhat reticent to discuss. Whether individuals are currently suffering from hair loss or the possibility of it occurring in the future is simply unimaginable, the topic most definitely remains rather vague. However, due to the continuous evolution of medical research, specialist treatments and medication, hair loss no longer has to be pushed under the carpet, there are multiple solutions that can be tailored to each individual.
6 Tips For Those Suffering From Hair Loss
There are many different causes of hair loss, some that are hereditary or due to an illness and others that can be solved through lifestyle changes; these are also known as ‘reactive’ triggers. For many individuals, hair loss comes merely with age and is down to genetics; therefore, unfortunately, cannot be solved but can be treated. The most common type of genetic-related hair loss is hereditary pattern baldness, commonly seen in men but can also be suffered by women. Hereditary pattern baldness begins with thinning of the hair and loss around the front of the crown, then continues to recede.
Reactive triggers are slightly more difficult to uncover and can be down to extreme stress, anxiety or a lack of essential nutrients. In more recent years, awareness of stress-related alopecia has continued to grow as many are unaware of their stress levels until they begin to see changes in their body. When the body is under ongoing immense stress, the hair follicles will become under attack and consequently, will cause clumps to fall out. For more information on the causes of hair loss and thinning, take a look at our previous article.
While, for many, hair loss cannot be entirely resolved, there are a plethora ways that you can begin encouraging new hair growth and disguise any noticeable signs.
1. A Change In Diet
While genetics is a factor that cannot be changed, your diet is a lifestyle choice that can easily be altered to promote a healthier, nutrient-filled body. While it may not seem it, your hair is the second fastest growing cell in the body with around 120,000 individual follicles growing simultaneously at any given time; all of which needs to be supported through rich nutrients. Your hair needs a balanced diet that fulfils every element, both healthy and less healthy, to maintain optimum growth.
Protein, in particular, is imperative in promoting healthy hair growth. A lack of protein causes the follicles to skip straight from the growth stage to the resting stage. With this in mind, it is highly recommended to ensure that you always incorporate the adequate amount of protein into your daily diet, whether this may be through rich meals or snacks throughout the day. Healthline has put together an incredibly helpful article on the 14 best foods for hair growth for inspiration!
2. Take Vitamins Daily
According to Help Guide, your body requires around 30 different vitamins to remain full-functioning with no deficiencies, yet only a handful of these impact hair growth.
Vitamin B12 is responsible for feeding nutrients to the red blood cells to encourage the reproduction of DNA. A deficiency of vitamin B12 often becomes apparent with age and can cause the hair to begin thinning at a considerably quicker rate. Vitamin E, on the other hand, is ideal for encouraging healthy circulation of oxygen around the body and towards vital organs. Together, vitamin B12 and E work hand in hand to ensure that your hair remains strong.
Similarly to protein, there are a number of foods that are rich in vitamin B12 such as tuna, beef and sardines and others that are packed with vitamin E, for instance, green leafy vegetables, seeds and nuts. Incorporating each superfood into your daily diet can prove somewhat tricky, so it is worth also opting for taking multivitamins once a day to ensure that your body is receiving the correct nutrients.
3. Speak To Your Doctor
Hair loss can have a huge impact on an individuals confidence and self-esteem and if left unsolved, can begin affecting mental health. It is important never to ignore the issue and instead, take a trip to your doctor during the early stages to help to pinpoint a cause. Those who experience hair loss at an early age, in particular, may uncover after speaking to a GP that they have a hormone imbalance and require medication. Your doctor is the most valuable source of information, so use them to your advantage. They will be able to help you to begin exploring different solutions and point you in the right direction to begin your journey to healthy hair growth.
4. Specialist Hair Loss Treatments
Hair loss awareness continues to grow with a huge percentage of hair salons now opting for specialising in treatments to resolve signs of loss or thinning. While many treatments designed to treat hair loss do involve surgery, many non-surgical alternatives prove to be just as effective and long-lasting.
Hair replacement systems, in particular, are ideal for combating signs of hair loss and come alongside no harsh side effects whatsoever. Breathable medical grade lace covered with a micro-thin skin system and natural human hair is applied to the scalp strategically to blend seamlessly with an individuals existing hair. As the skin system is just 0.02mm to 0.04mm thick, the replacement hair will be lightweight, durable and achieve a realistic hairline that camouflages perfectly into the scalp. Due to the use of human hair, all replacement systems can be coloured, cut and styled providing full versatility and flexibility to tailor the system to meet requirements.
If you’re interested in hair replacement systems in Milton Keynes, then please feel free to contact Nuda Hair Designs!
5. Care For Your Scalp
Caring for your scalp through regular massaging is key for promoting healthy hair growth. Massaging the scalp helps towards dilating the arteries under the skin which is ideal for increasing blood flow to the hair follicles. While you are unlikely to notice an immediate visible impact, opting to begin massaging your scalp at an early age will strengthen the follicles for the future.
It is your choice whether you treat yourself to a monthly Indian head massage or use DIY methods to stimulate the scalp. When caring for the scalp from the comfort of your home, you must invest in essential oils as these are key for feeding the scalp with nutrients. Many different essential oils are available depending on the scent you love the most. Lavender, rosemary and thyme not only smell fantastic but also are proven to prevent hair thinning.
When learning the art of a relaxing scalp massage that reaps health benefits, aim only to use your fingertips. Focus on circular motions with just slight pressure and work your way around the head in small sections. Live About has an excellent guide on how to give yourself a scalp massage along with helpful top tips!
6. Stress Relief
Particularly when you are feeling super stressed, natural human reaction is to shut off and allow negative thoughts to overwhelm the brain. While it may be tricky, at first, to get yourself into the routine of thinking methodologically when stressed, it will most definitely help to relieve the strain.
One of the most effective ways to achieve successful stress management is to begin practising yoga, meditation and mindfulness. Yoga and meditation are key for relaxing the body and allowing the mind to remain clear, ultimately promoting mindfulness. Mindfulness, by definition, is your mind’s ability to focus on solely the present moment, allowing you to gain full control over your current thoughts and feelings.
Many assume that you must form a dedication to yoga and meditation to gain results; however, this isn’t the case. Even taking 10 minutes a day to focus your mind on recuperating your thoughts is capable of making a dramatic difference. With a busy schedule, you would most definitely benefit from using free mobile phone apps to your advantage. Marie Claire has devised a helpful guide to the best yoga apps of the year!
Promote Healthy Hair and Scalp!
One of the most useful pieces of advice always to keep in mind when dealing with hair loss and thinning is never to panic. If you are beginning to notice any signs, do not be afraid to visit your local doctor to resolve the issue as soon as possible. As mentioned previously, stress and anxiety can be a key cause of hair loss, so worrying will only cause the problem to worsen!