Hair loss can be a distressing experience, but there are several things you can do to prevent it or encourage hair growth. Here are some tips from various sources:
- Wash and condition your hair gently: Use a gentle shampoo and apply a moisturizing conditioner after every shampoo. Conditioner coats your strands, which reduces breakage and split ends. Avoid shampoos that can strip moisture from your hair.
- Be gentle with your hair: Brush or comb your hair gently, and only enough to style it. Tugging on your hair while brushing or combing it can lead to hair loss. Avoid twisting your hair around your finger or pulling on it, as these habits can further weaken already fragile hair.
- Use lukewarm water: To avoid damage, use lukewarm water instead of hot, avoid brushing and stretching your hair while wet, and use a deep, moisturizing conditioner.
- Eat a healthy diet: Eating a balanced diet that includes enough protein and vitamins can help prevent hair loss. Vitamin deficiencies may be a risk factor for hair loss. Some vitamins and minerals that may help include iron and protein.
- Avoid harsh hair treatments: Avoid heating tools, hair dye, and bleaching. Hairstyles like tight ponytails or braids can also cause hair loss.
- Use over-the-counter hair loss medication: Minoxidil, an over-the-counter medication that helps prevent hair loss, is available as a solution or foam that’s applied to your scalp. It has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) at a 5% strength. Low-dose oral minoxidil is also being considered as a treatment.
- Consider low-level laser light therapy: This treatment involves using a special comb or brush that emits low-level laser light to stimulate hair growth.
- Talk to your doctor: If you notice sudden or patchy hair loss or more than usual hair loss when combing or washing your hair, talk to your doctor. Sudden hair loss can signal an underlying medical condition that requires treatment.
Remember that hair loss can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, aging, hormonal changes, and medical conditions. The best way to prevent hair loss is to address the underlying cause.
