For many people who lose their hair, it can be a traumatising experience that takes a toll on their self-esteem and wellbeing. As a result, you may wonder what exactly you can do to prevent hair loss. However, the answer is entirely dependent on the type of hair loss.
Preventing genetic hair loss
In most instances, hair loss is genetic. Over the course of their lifetime, two-thirds of men will experience male pattern baldness, with 40% noticing hair loss by the age of 35. Meanwhile, around half of women will experience some type of hair loss at some point in their life.
Although there is no way of preventing genetic hair loss, there are ways of treating it, especially if you seek advice as soon as you start noticing hair loss. Finasteride (Propecia) is a prescription medication that blocks the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that can contribute to hair loss by disrupting the growth cycle. If treatment is started early, Finasteride can be effective at preventing further hair loss. Not everyone is a suitable candidate for this medication, so you’ll need to consult with your GP or a specialist.
Other ways to prevent hair loss
Although there are no guaranteed ways to prevent hair loss, there are ways that you can improve your lifestyle to promote healthy hair growth.
Reducing stress
Stress can be a contributing factor to a type of hair loss called telogen effluvium, which is where hair is shed across the scalp. It happens when the growth phase of the hair cycle is interrupted by a disturbance within the body, causing a large number of hairs to shift into the shedding phase. When we are stressed, our body focuses our energy on only the most essential functions – unfortunately, hair growth is not one of these.
Everyone manages stress differently, so try to find a way of reducing stress that works for you, such as meditation, exercise and getting enough rest.
Cutting out bad habits
A poor diet, smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can all take a toll on your body, impacting every area of your health. Your diet, in particular, may be contributing towards hair loss, as several deficiencies can cause hair loss, such as iron and vitamin D. Make sure that you are eating a healthy, balanced diet with plenty of vitamins and minerals, as well as enough protein, as hair follicles are primarily made of a type of protein called keratin.
Looking after your hair
The way that you care for your hair is key to its overall health. Overusing hot tools such as hairdryers, curling irons and straighteners can make the hair dry, brittle and damaged, as well as more prone to breakage. Make sure to only use hot tools when necessary and use a heat protecting spray.
Wash your hair regularly with gentle shampoo and conditioner, avoiding products that are overly harsh and more liable to dry out your hair. To minimise the risk of excessive hair shedding – or even traction alopecia – avoid tight hairstyles that pull on the root of the hair, like tight braids or ponytails.
If you are struggling with hair loss, in many instances, there are both surgical and non-surgical options to treat it – Crown Clinic offers a wide variety of treatments that are sure to bring your hair back to its former glory. Why not book in for a hair consultation to find out the best course of treatment for you?