Tips to prevent hair loss

It’s believed that more than one third of the world’s population are suffering from hair loss. While we cannot stop natural hair loss, there are many preventable types of hair loss that can be avoided through simple lifestyle changes. Here are some tips to stave off unnecessary hair loss:

Wash hair daily

Dirt increases the chance of infections caused by bacteria, which can damage hair follicles and lead to hair loss. Wash hair with mild shampoo and conditioner designed for your hair type. Avoid rinsing hair with very hot water and always dry and comb your wet hair gently.

Get enough sleep and reduce stress

Getting a good night’s sleep, managing pressure, and avoiding stress, is important for our overall health and that includes our hair health. People are less likely to experience hair loss when they’ve had adequate sleep and feel comfortable within their environment.

Exercise regularly

Exercise increases blood circulation which is vital for optimum hair growth. Physical activity also improves our overall well-being, which reduces the risk of illness and the use of medications, thus preventing hair loss caused by drugs and disease.

Drink plenty of water each day

Similar to our skin, our hair is comprised of about 20% water. Water helps carry off toxins from both our skin and hair. Drinking 4 to 8 cups of water a day are required to maintain vibrant, healthy hair.

Eat a nutritionally balanced diet

Like other parts of our body, hair also requires energy for peak performance. Protein, iron, and Vitamins A, B, C and E are among the most important nutrients to support healthy hair growth. To strengthen your hair, add the following nutrient rich foods to your diet: meat, fish, dairy, eggs, squash, oranges, lemons, apricots, raisins, avocados, spinach, beans, green peppers, kale, carrots, nuts, and sesame.

Along with a balanced diet, multi-vitamin and multi-mineral supplements may also be beneficial for hair growth. Talk to your doctor to find out which supplements are right for you.

Avoid overheating hair

Constant heating can make hair brittle and fragile, even damage hair follicles. Set your hair dryer on low temperature levels or let your hair dry naturally.

Try not to dye

Frequent use of chemicals like hair dye may cause hair breakage and hurt your scalp, thus affecting the hair growth.

Avoid tight hairstyles

Tight hairstyles such as pigtails, braids, or cornrows can cause traction hair loss due to frequent twisting or pulling of the hair.

Reduce drinking and stop smoking

Studies have shown that excessive alcohol consumption may prevent nutrients from being absorbed properly by the body. Smoking can also destroy hair follicles by interfering with the blood and hormone circulation of the scalp.

Massage scalp regularly

Massaging stimulates the blood circulation of the scalp; this can help lead to healthy hair by increasing the amount of nutrients being absorbed.

Looking to put an end to hair loss? Consult a hair therapy specialist for a thorough assessment, they will determine if you are a qualified candidate and discuss treatment options to best suit your needs.