Everyone experiences hair loss as a natural part of the hair’s life cycle. However, if it seems that more of your hair is ending up in your brush than on your head, you may be losing more hair than normal. Although you may find your husband’s receding hairline to be somewhat cute, your own thinning hair can have you in tears. Often, increased hair loss can be a temporary condition. Knowing the cause of your thinning locks can help you find the best way to minimize or prevent additional hair loss.
Significance
Many normal conditions can cause an increase in hair loss. Most people lose about 75 strands of hair each day. Some women notice their hair seems to fall out more during certain periods in their menstrual cycles. Fluctuating hormones may cause slight variations in your hair’s normal growth cycle. Many women notice a loss of hair after giving birth. Consult your doctor if you notice a continued increase in hair loss after about six months. He may want to take a few tests to find out if you have a hormonal imbalance.
Good Nutrition
Making sure you consume a healthy diet can help resolve your hair loss. In his book, “Prescription for Natural Cures,” author James F. Balch, M.D., warns against poor eating habits and extreme dieting. Your entire body, including your hair, requires proper nutrients to support normal growth. Balch advises increasing your consumption of whole grains, vegetables and quality sources of protein, such as lean poultry, fish and nuts.
Beauty Routine
You may notice you have lost more hair since you started applying hair bleaches, permanent waves, straightening solutions or dyes to your tresses. These chemical treatments can damage the hair shaft, causing it to fray and break. Examine the hairs in your brush for the appearance of roots. Broken hairs, those without attached roots, usually indicate the presence of weak, brittle hair. Limit your use of harsh chemicals. See your hairstylist for deep-conditioning treatments. Treat your hair gently and avoid pulling and stretching the strands, especially when wet.
Learn to Relax
According to Women to Women, a women’s healthcare clinic in Yarmouth, Maine, rage may play a large part in the production of testosterone. This hormone may cause you to lose some hair. Learning to relax and put things in perspective may alleviate this source of hair loss.
Supplements
Consider taking a few supplements to help prevent hair loss. Get your doctor’s approval before beginning a therapeutic course of vitamins or herbs, especially if you suffer from a medical condition or take prescription medications. The Women to Women website recommends gingko biloba or herbs that contain iodine, such as kelp. Since some vitamin and mineral deficiencies can cause hair loss, make sure you get enough calcium, iron, magnesium and Vitamin E, Vitamin C and Vitamin B. A balanced multivitamin with minerals can ensure adequate amounts of many important nutrients.
Photo Credit
- woman brushing hair image by forca from Fotolia.com
