Minor hair fall is a common occurrence among men and women (losing between 50 to 100 strands a day is considered normal) but when you lose hair while combing, oiling, shampooing and conditioning, sometimes the hair loss can be lot more and rapid causing worry.
Extreme hair fall is a reason for concern but you need not spend thousands of rupees on its treatment yet. Simple alterations in your diet, hair care routine and lifestyle choices can slow down hair fall.
1. Have a good balanced diet
Hair requires a good number of vitamins and minerals too. Vitamin A encourages healthy production of sebum in the scalp and also helps in hair growth. It is found in dark leafy green vegetables, sweet red peppers, mango, papaya etc. Vitamin B12 found in milk, and milk products, beans etc. is useful for hair growth. So, if you are suffering from hair fall, include foods like dairy products, nuts, green vegetables e.g. cabbage that are rich source of biotin in your regular diet.
2. Have enough water
Keep yourself hydrated. The hair shaft comprises one quarter water, so drink at least eight to twelve glasses of water in a day to stay hydrated and for growth of healthy hair.
3. Don’t skip the scalp massage
Hair tends to lose hydration due to the exposure it has to the elements, dry hair can lead to extensive hair fall. One of the most potent ways to avoid this is by applying oil on your hair the night before and showering the next day. Doing this three nights a week with coconut oil or olive oil is recommended. Get yourself a good scalp massage to prevent hair loss.
4. Avoid brushing wet hair
Wet hair is very weak. Brushing wet hair increases chances of hair breakage. If you must comb wet hair, use a very wide-toothed comb. Use your fingers to undo tangles, not a comb or brush.
5. Shampoo regularly
Regular hair washing is a part of preventing hair loss by the way of keeping hair and scalp clean. By doing so, you are lowering the risk of infections and dandruff that may lead to hair breakage or loss. Do not hesitate to shampoo hair on a regular basis.
6. Avoid hot water
Hair is a delicate structure. Do not use excessively hot water to wash your hair. Hot water strips your hair of colour and activates the oil-producing glands. Use lukewarm or tepid water which will help dilute the oil glands’ secretions, remove dirt, and improve blood circulation.
It’s best to end with a cool or cold shower. Such a finish will stimulate circulation at the hair roots and make your hair look smooth and shiny.
Stress is one of the root causes for a lot of health problems, including hair loss. It can also disrupt the process of hair growth and lead to premature greying. Again, meditation and yoga on a regular basis can prove to be a good stress buster.