Myths About Hair Loss
Are you losing your hair? There are a lot of misconceptions about what causes hair loss and how to fix it. In this blog we will discuss some of the myths about hair loss. Ask yourself if there’s been a change in your health both physical as well as mental health? Hormonal imbalance, stress, or a poor diet can all be causes of hair loss.
Don’t just figure it out on your own. It’s best to consult with a hair professional and your doctor to determine what the possible underlying causes can be.
Here are some of the most common MYTHS regarding hair loss.
1st Myth: Hair Loss Is Permanent
Although, there ARE some forms of hair loss that CANNOT be reversed it is NOT true in many cases! Irreversible hair loss happens when the hair follicle is damaged to the point that it cannot produce hair again. The good news is that there are many types of hair loss that can be reversed by determining what the underlying cause of the hair loss is and then (if possible) correcting it. For example, if you’ve experienced significant trauma, it may be possible to reverse that type of hair loss by reducing the amount of stress. Self-care like practicing mindfulness, yoga, or meditation helps. Even quiet time to read can help reduce the stress in your life. If you experienced a lot of hair shedding after having a baby, chances are good that your hair will start growing again in 3 to 4 months after the hair shed.
2nd Myth: Only Men Lose Their Hair
It is a common misconception that losing your hair does not happen if you are a woman. The fact is both women and men experience hair loss. It is estimated that 30 million women in the United States have thinning hair or hair loss.
However, most women suffer from hair loss in a different way than men. Male pattern baldness often happens at the top of the head and the hairline begins to recede, leading to balding. Female Pattern Baldness is hormonal and is an over-all thinning which maintains the appearance of a normal hairline.
3rd Myth: Shampooing Too Often Causes Hair Loss
Washing your hair often is not going to affect the overall growth of your hair, nor will it cause hair loss.
In fact, skipping days may make you think that you are losing more hair based on what you see in your shower drain. That’s because we all shed every day. Our shedding is most often noticed in the drain after we shampoo and condition our hair. When you shampoo daily you will notice less hair in the drain. When you shampoo less often, you will see more hair in the drain but that is because you didn’t wash it the day before. This is your normal amount of shedding. That does not mean you are pulling more hair out. That hair probably would have fallen out otherwise. If, on the other hand, you ARE pulling on it hard, wearing it in tight ponytails or otherwise being abrasive, that could be the cause of a form of hair loss called traction alopecia.
4th Myth: Vitamins Promote Hair Growth
Hair and nails need vitamins and nutrients to grow and thrive in general. Vitamins alone aren’t enough. To promote your growth, improve your diet. More fruits and veggies, less processed foods. You know this! And, of course, reduce stress!
5th Myth: Cutting Your Hair More Often Leads to Faster Growth
No matter how often you cut your hair, it will not accelerate its growth. It has nothing to do with your hair’s growth cycle.
If you are losing hair and don’t know why, do something, take action. Do not ignore it because new hair loss, especially if it is substantial, could be an indication of another health problem. See your doctor to find out what might be going on. Most of the time you will get answers and be able to correct it.
If you are experiencing hair loss or thinning hair, contact our TEAM at Hair Solutions of Long Island for your complimentary consultation!