Expert Tips to Avoid Hair Loss & Boost Growth

There are few sights as emotionally distressing as finding large clumps of hair in the shower or on your pillow, or seeing thinning hair or bald spots in the mirror.

The bad news is that hair loss is a common occurrence that will affect over two-thirds of men and half of all women in their lifetimes.

But the good news is that there are several proactive measures you can take to prevent hair loss or even regain a vibrant, healthy head of hair.

An ounce of prevention can make a world of difference to maintaining healthy hair, which is why it’s vital to implement a proper haircare routine from an early age – much in the same way you would care for your skin or your teeth.

In fact, hair care is particularly important in your younger years, when your hair is at its peak growth potential. Establishing good haircare habits from early on can set the foundation for healthier hair as you age…

Nourish from within

A balanced and nutrient-rich diet is imperative for healthy hair growth. Consuming foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins, such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, builds solid and lustrous hair. Hydration is also vital, so be sure to drink an adequate amount of water daily.

Cleanse gently and condition properly

When washing your hair, opt for gentle, sulphate-free shampoos and conditioners, as harsh ingredients can strip the hair of natural oils and cause damage over time. Massage the scalp gently with your fingertips to stimulate blood circulation and promote hair growth. And avoid excessive shampooing, as this can lead to dryness and breakage.

Conditioning is also vital to keep your hair hydrated and manageable, and for protecting your hair follicles from the stresses of combing and drying. Use a mild conditioner and apply it after shampooing to keep your hair moisturised and manageable. Apply conditioner from the mid-length of your hair to the ends, focusing on the damaged or dry areas, and leave the conditioner on for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly. 

Regular deep conditioning treatments can provide a further boost of moisture and nourishment.

Protect from heat and styling damage

Excessive heat from styling tools and harsh styling techniques can severely damage your hair, which is why it’s crucial to apply heat protectant sprays or serums before using heat-styling tools, such as blow dryers, curling irons, or straighteners. Use lower heat settings whenever possible, and minimise the frequency of heat styling to reduce the risk of hair damage. 

Remember that certain hairstyles, such as tight ponytails and braids, can also cause tension and traction on your hair, leading to hair loss. Avoid pulling your hair excessively, and opt for looser styles that won't strain your scalp.

Be mindful of chemical treatments and environmental factors

Chemical treatments such as perming, relaxing, or colouring can significantly impact your hair's health. Spacing these out and providing ample time for hair recovery between each is crucial. 

Likewise, environmental factors like sun exposure, wind, and pollution can negatively affect your hair. When spending time outdoors, shield your hair with hats, scarves, or protective hairstyles. Additionally, regularly washing your hair to remove build-up and using clarifying shampoos can help to maintain your hair’s health. 

And if you regularly swim in chlorinated pools, it's essential to wear a swimming cap to protect your hair from the damaging effects of pool chemicals. After swimming, shampoo your hair thoroughly to remove any chlorine residue, salt, or other impurities.

Treat your scalp

Remember that hair care starts with scalp care!

Maintaining a healthy scalp environment is crucial for promoting strong, vibrant hair. Opting for gentle cleansing with natural shampoos free from harsh chemicals like sulphates and parabens - which can strip the scalp of its natural oils – is a good first step.

Regular scalp massages can stimulate blood circulation, bringing essential nutrients to hair follicles and encouraging growth. Incorporating natural oils such as coconut, jojoba, or castor oil can nourish and moisturise your scalp, reducing dryness and flakiness.

Regularly exfoliating the scalp with gentle scrubs can remove dead skin cells and promote a clean environment for new hair to grow.

Additionally, using herbal rinses with ingredients like rosemary, peppermint, and green tea can help to invigorate the scalp and support healthy hair growth.

Last but far from least, a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly biotin, vitamin E, and omega-3 fatty acids, plays a vital role in scalp health and hair growth.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr Kashmal Kalan is the Medical Director for Alvi Armani, and an expert in hair transplants and restoration.