Hair loss in humans is inevitable, and it’s worth noting that everybody sheds hair daily. However, the reasons as to why people lose hair may differ from one person to the other. Similarly, there are several remedies to slow hair loss, but they all depend on why you are losing hair in the first place.
In some cases, such as the hair loss experienced after pregnancy, it may resolve independently. However, when your hair loss situation takes a toll on you due to its consistency, you need to seek consultation from your doctor. Your medical provider may be in a position to diagnose hair loss if it’s caused by scalp infections, aging, thyroid issues, or androgenic alopecia.
Below, we’ve compiled a comprehensive premier on 20 things to help you save your hair.
1. Mediterranean diet
The Mediterranean diet, which consists of raw vegetables and fresh herbs, has been researched to significantly reduce the risk of androgenic alopecia - male or female pattern baldness. The study observed best results when participants consumed the diet for a frequency of more than four days in a week.
2. Protein
Proteins are essential in reducing hair loss, and they are the building materials for hair follicles- mainly formed by a protein called keratin. The deficiency of amino acids, the key blocks in protein formation, has been researched to cause hair loss. Protein-rich food includes eggs, nuts, peas, chicken, and turkey.
3. Vitamin A
Vitamin A is made of retinoids which increases the rate of hair growth. In addition, the vitamin is vital in sebum production, thereby maintaining a healthier scalp with more hairs. Vitamin A-rich foods include sweet potatoes, spinach, and sweet peppers.
4. Multivitamin
Research has shown that vitamins such as A, B, C, D, including iron and zinc are essential for the retention process and hair growth, particularly in cell turnover. You can ask your doctor to prescribe some multivitamins for you; also, they are available in most grocery stores.
5. Vitamin D
Treating vitamin D deficiencies may significantly help hair regrowth since the vitamin has been connected with nonscarring alopecia.
6. Biotin
Biotin is usually essential in the synthesis of fatty acids within the body. Fatty acid synthesis is a key process in the hair life cycle, and therefore its deficiency has an impact on hair growth.
7. Saw Palmetto
The saw palmetto is harvested from the fruit of the American dwarf pine trees and is essential in stabilizing the testosterone levels in men. Furthermore, it has been attributed to improved hair growth.
8. Ginseng
Ginseng is known to contain phytochemicals that are essential in promoting hair growth on the scalp. If you are considering taking supplements that contain this ingredient, you should speak to your doctor.
9. Regular washing of your hair
Washing is crucial in maintaining a clean and healthy scalp, thereby protecting you from hair loss. Ensure you use a mild shampoo to prevent drying and breaking of the hair.
10. Using coconut oil
A 2018 review of studies has concluded that coconut oil is essential in averting hair damaged by the harmful ultraviolet (UV). The lauric acid derived from coconut oil is vital in binding the proteins within the hair, thus preventing breakage at the root section. More so, applying coconut oils to the scalp helps enhance blood flow and thus promote regrowth.
11. Olive Oil
Olive oil is a key ingredient in the Mediterranean diet, which slows down genetic hair loss. Further, it helps keep the hair from drying and breaking. You can apply the olive oil to your hair and allow it to sit for thirty minutes before washing.
12. Gentle styling
Gentle styling can simply be achieved by doing away with tight braids or ponytails, which causes excessive strain to the hairs and ultimately cause excessive shedding.
13. Hair processing
Avoid chemical hair treatments such as hair color since they cause severe damage to the scalp, and opt for alternatives such as organic hair dyes.
14. Laser therapy
The use of low-level lasers may significantly improve hair density for those with genetic hair loss or the loss associated with chemotherapy. This type of treatment(redlight therapy) helps stimulate the epidermal stem cells.
15. Platelet-rich plasma
The platelet-rich plasma is injected into the scalp to stimulate hair growth in areas suffering hair loss. Usually, the blood is first circulated through a centrifuge, separating the platelets, before its usage.
16. Minoxidil
Minoxidil is an over-the-counter drug, also known as Rogaine, and is important in stimulating hair growth when applied to the scalp. However, it has associated side effects, such as scalp irritation and acne at the application site.
17. Finasteride
Finasteride, also known as Propecia, is a prescription pill that promotes hair growth and minimizes hair loss. Its mostly used by men and works better for those under sixty years. Pregnant women should avoid it.
18. Phenylephrine
Tropical phenylephrine is essential in stimulating the contraction of the follicle muscle, thereby making it difficult to pull out hairs when brushing.
19. Essential oils
Applying a combination of essential oils such as cedarwood oil, lavender, rosemary on the scalp can significantly improve the effects of alopecia. In addition, you can as well mix these oils with a tablespoon of carrier oil such as jojoba and apply them to the scalp for around ten minutes before washing.
20. Onion juice
Applying crude onion juice to the scalp twice a day may significantly promote regrowth for people with alopecia areata.
The above are some absolute highlights to ensuring your hair is healthy and with minimal shedding. Hoping now you’re in the know!
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional consultation or advice related to your health or finances. No reference to an identifiable individual or company is intended as an endorsement thereof. Some or all of this article may have been generated using artificial intelligence, and it may contain certain inaccuracies or unreliable information. Readers should not rely on this article for information and should consult with professionals for personal advice.
