Hair Loss
An average of 50-100 hairs lost per day is defined as normal. Many historical references as well as small scale studies show that there are ways to slow down or even slightly reverse hair loss.
You must identify the likely cause of hair loss in order to treat it effectively. This article discusses different causes of hair loss as well as provides many tips on how to maximize your hair health.
The hormonal link. There is a strong hormonal link to hair loss. Male Pattern Baldness is caused by a combination of genetic predisposition and hormonal imbalances. It is believed that the over production of a type of testosterone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is responsible. High cholesterol, certain nutritional deficiencies (ex. Zinc) and prostate problems happen to correlate with high DHT.
Menopause may affect hair loss in a manner similar to the hormonal pattern experienced by men. Low estrogen levels often correlate with high DHT. This plays a role in the facial hair growth elderly women may experience. Thyroid imbalances, common to menopausal women, can also affect hair quality. Iodine deficiency may cause premature graying, dryness and stringy hair. Because of sudden changes in hormone levels, both the withdrawal from the Birth Control Pill and the end of childbirth can bring on temporary hair loss.
Herbal and nutritional support can help balance hormones and indirectly address hair loss.
The stress link! Stress indirectly causes hair loss by tiring out your “stress glands” called the adrenals. The adrenals are responsible for producing estrogen, especially after menopause. If they are exhausted then estrogen levels will be low and this may cause DHT to be excessive. Stimulants such as alcohol, caffeine and nicotine will compound the stress of the adrenals.
Good circulation is key. Hair relies on nutrients for its survival. High stress can cause secretion of hormones that cause constriction of your blood vessels. Important nutrients are cut off from the hair roots. Dandruff also prevents circulating nutrients from getting to the hair.
Chronic hair conditions. Dandruff and excessive sebum (natural hair oils) can build up on the scalp. They prevent nutrients from getting to the hair, deregulate the acid balance of the scalp, cause inflammation and harbor bacterial growth.
Nurture your Hair. Nutritional deficiencies (for example, B vitamins, proteins, vitamin A, Zinc, Silica, PABA, Sulfur, potassium, iron, vitamins C and E) can impair hair quality and make it more prone to breaking, splitting or falling. High salt intake has been linked to hair loss in one study. Diuretics such as coffee, pop and fruit juices can cause the loss of important nutrients needed for healthy hair. Essential Fatty Acid deficiencies can cause dry brittle and falling hair.
Foods to feed your hair. The following foods are high in nutrients necessary for hair health: carrots, cucumbers, spinach, alfalfa juice, watercress, parsnips, oats, beans, sea salt, seaweeds, garlic and onions. The herbs nettles and horsetail are also very beneficial. Topically, many essential oils help increase blood circulation to the scalp.
Choose hair products with care. Forget about the name of products and read the ingredients. Commercial shampoos, especially antidandruff ones, cause mineral loss due to harsh chemicals that strip away natural oils.
Avoid cosmetics with any of the following: Methyl, propyl, butyl and ethyl parabens; diethanolamine (DEA), Triethanolamine (TEA); Diazolidinyl Urea, Imidazolidinyl Urea; Sodium Lauryl/Laureth Sulfate; Petrolium; Propylene Glycol; PVP/VA Copolymer; Stearalkonium Chloride; synthetic colors; Synthetic Fragrances.
Look for shampoos with the following ingredients: Panthenol (B5), Keratin, Jojoba Oil, Evening Primrose Oil, Safflower Oil, Burdock, Chamomile, Chaparral, Horsetail, Nettles, Rosemary, Sage and Polysorbate 80. Use products with a PH 5.5.
Avoid commercial products. Commercial hair sprays, gels and styling mousse as they are loaded with harmful chemicals including known carcinogens. Try products such as Aubrey Organics, Druide, Nature’s Blends, Afrikan Beauty’s, African Formula Products, Inc., and Life in the Wood. These are only available in health food stores. In my experience there are no comparable products in drug stores.
Tips on brushing and drying. In order to preserve your hair do the following: avoid extremely hot water; use minimal shampoo; massage scalp with fingers not nails; rinse longer than thought necessary; avoid shampoo/conditioner combination products; pat hair dry (don’t rub) if it breaks easily; blow dry AFTER towel drying to damp; use a dryer with power less than 1000 watts at the lowest heat using wide nozzle 6 inches away and keep it moving; don’t pull wet hair with a brush as it stretches and breaks (use a wide-toothed smooth edge comb).
