Thinning Hair – How To Properly Deal With It

Thin Hair

Table of Contents

Amount of thinning hair and hair loss conditions increase over the past two decades among males and females. This can be due to various causes, both psychological and physical; however to better understand how and why hair loss is experienced one must have knowledge of the conditions. Furthermore, the attainment of the most appropriate treatment also depends on the amount of knowledge one has about hair loss and thin hair. This article will provide information on the causes and treatments for hair loss and thin hair among males and females.

 Thinning Hair

 

Thin hair is something that can affect men and women of all ages. Thin hair is something that can be caused by genetics, or as a natural side-effect of aging, but it can also be a sign of other issues, including nutrient deficiencies.

Your hair is a natural window to the healing of your body as a whole, and if your hair starts to fall out or thin then this is usually a sign that you have some form of allergy, hormone issue or nutrition problem.

Thinning Hair Men

 

Thinning hair and hair loss is most commonly associated with, and seen in, males. Approximately 50% of all males under the age of 35 will experience hair thinning at some point in their lives, which can lead to hair loss later in life. Hair loss among males generally begins as a receding hair line, which will progress to bald spots across the scalp. Research has shown that the most common cause of hair loss is biological and has a genetic factor. Among men, this biological trigger relates to a lack of testosterone in the body.

 

Thinning Hair Women

 

Despite being considered a problem among males, the issue of hair loss and hair thinning can also be seen in a large amount of females across the globe. It is generally seen that females between the age of 25 and 40 are more likely to experience thinning hair than children or older adults. There are various causes for hair thinning and hair loss among women, including a genetic influence. Due to the variety of causes, it is important for a female to consult a medical practitioner once the symptoms begin. The most common trigger of hair thinning and hair loss in females is pregnancy. This is due to the fact that one’s hormones are being altered and a change in hormones can cause alopecia.

 

The Available Treatments For Hair Thinning

 

Due to the growth in cases of hair loss, there has been an increase in the type of treatments available. Many of these treatments will both treat the hair loss or hair thinning and will assist in prevention of re-occurrence. One of the most well-known and used treatment for thinning hair is the application of an ingredient known as minoxidil. This ingredient, when mixed with corticosteroids, acts as a hair stimulant and will increase growth among hair follicles. Of course, the effectiveness of this solution is dependent on the individual’s hair type and the severity of the condition.

Unfortunately, there is no instantaneous treatment for hair thinning or hair loss and one must continue using the solution for several months before any results are noted. During this time one can opt to disguise the thinning hair. There are various products and techniques available that will make the existing hair follicles seem thicker and healthier. It is also possible style one’s remaining hair follicles to imitate healthy and strong hair.

 

Thin hair and Self Treatment

 

You can often manage thinning hair with home treatments. Change your shampoo and conditioner to a milder product, and if you use hair colours stop them for a while or use them less often. In many cases thinning hair is a sign of damage to your scalp and something that is easily remedied.

Another thing to consider is nutrition. If you have been following a calorie restricted diet then you may not be getting enough essential nutrients. Even if you are not practising calorie restriction, if you are not getting enough protein and healthy fats, or your diet is low in iron, zinc or certain vitamins, then the quality of your hair could suffer.

Taking a multivitamin and supplementing your protein intake or simply eating more whole foods could help to improve the thickness and health of your hair. You may also benefit from using coconut oil or aloe vera on your hair as an overnight treatment. The oils will soak into your follicles and nourisdh them, soothing any damage that was done and also helping to stimulate the production of new healthy hair growth.

If you experience sudden, unexpected hair loss or thinning that does not get better after a short period of self treatment, it is important that you see a doctor as soon as possible to rulke out any underlying serious health conditions.

Tips – How To Deal With Thinning Hair

 

You probably don’t think about it much until you start to lose it. That’s usually the way it is with thinning hair. You may take having hair for granted, until you see it all inside of your drain. Apply these tips to help keep the hair exactly where it ought to be.

TIP! Make sure that your diet includes plenty of foods that are rich in protein to prevent your hair from falling out. Your hair is made up of protein.

Vitamin C plays a significant role in preventing thinning hair. Collagen plays a vital role in keeping hair alive and healthy. Vitamin C can aid in proper production of collagen. There are a number of foods that contain vitamin C, including citrus fruits like oranges. Supplements are also available.

TIP! The role that Vitamin C plays in hair loss prevention cannot be ignored. It helps your body produce collagen, which in turn keeps your hair healthy and strong.

Blading can be caused by certain hair styles. Avoid pulling hair too tight, and do not keep it tied in rubber bands or other holders for long amounts of time. Hair products have greatly evolved, but many can still result in damaged hair. Tight ponytails can cause damage to the hair shaft, eventually damaging the hair follicles.

TIP! It is important for you to maintain your health if you have an illness. If you don’t take care of it by doing or taking what you were advised, your body may go into “overdrive” trying to stay alive and repair itself.

You can reduce the rate at which you’re losing your hair by eating a lot of protein-rich foods. Many foods, such as legumes, meats and eggs are high in protein. Although there is no cure for baldness, a high protein diet can slow it down by providing the hair with keratin. When you have plenty of keratin in your body, the hair will be strong and healthy.

TIP! There are some hair products that are not healthy for your hair. If you choose wisely, and are aware of what products cause damage, you will be okay.

You may not believe it, but one way to combat the loss of your hair is to move to an area that has low air pollution. If you live in a highly polluted area, you may lose your hair. Exposure to pollutants can cause hair to fall out.

TIP! Despite the temptation, avoiding hair styling gels and other related products is a sound way to prevent your hair from falling out. Hairspray, gel, or mousse can damage your hair.

It can be depressing to watch your hair flow down the drain. Finding a way to help it grow back or preventing any more hair from leaving the head, can be invaluable. Be sure to apply what you have read via the tips above, and you can begin today. Hopefully, you will see a difference on that scalp in the immediate future.

TIP! Do not brush and style wet hair. Wet hair can be very easy to damage.

Hair Thinning: Everything you need to know
What is hair thinning?
Hair thinning refers to progressive mild to moderate hair loss. Contrary to popular belief, hair thinning does not necessarily result in baldness; however, it may result in hair thinning in certain spots on your scalp.

It is important to note that hair thinning is not the same as alopecia, i.e., baldness or widespread hair loss. Hair thinning may lead to hair loss eventually if left unattended, but the progression may vary.

What causes hair thinning?
Hair thinning may be attributed to a multitude of causes, including genetics, lifestyle habits, illness, and more. As per the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), losing 50 to 100 hair strands every day is normal. Shedding more hair than average, however, is concerning and must be addressed.

The following are some factors that may contribute to hair thinning.

• Over-treating your hair with color and heat treatments
• Using hair products with harsh chemicals such as gels, hairsprays, and temporary color
• Tying your hair too tightly in a ponytail or bun
• Living a stressful life which causes the release of the stress hormone cortisol

• Having a mineral or vitamin deficiency such as folic acid or iron
• Having a family history of hair thinning
Other factors that may contribute to hair loss include:
• Childbirth

• Hormonal fluctuations
• Drastic weight loss
• Autoimmune disorders
• Skin infections or disorders
• Eating disorders

• What are the symptoms of hair thinning and hair loss?
Hair thinning and loss patterns are subject to variation depending on the underlying cause. Thinning may initiate suddenly or progress over time. Moreover, it may be restricted to just the head or may affect the whole body.
Signs and symptoms of hair thinning may include:
• Gradual thinning on top: This is the most common type of hair loss pattern that occurs with age. In men, hair recession mostly begins at the hairline on the forehead. In women, hair thinning and loss typically presents as a broadening part.
• Bald spots: Losing hair in bald spots or patches on the scalp, eyebrows, or beard is another common symptom of hair thinning.
• Sudden hair loosening: Physical or emotional stress may cause hair to loosen, resulting in handfuls of hair coming out when combing or washing your hair.

• Scaly patches on the scalp: Scaling patches may be a sign of ringworm. The scaly patches may accompany broken hair, itchiness, redness, swelling, and more.

How can hair thinning be diagnosed?
Hair thinning can be diagnosed with the help of different tests and exams. It is essential to consult a professional in this regard. The doctor typically starts the diagnostic proceedings with a detailed physical exam, inquiring about your and your family’s medical history along with details of your diet and hair care routine.

Your doctor may conduct some tests to confirm the diagnosis, such as:

• Blood tests: They reveal any underlying medical condition or deficiency that may be causing hair thinning and loss.
• Pull test: This test helps determine the stage of shedding. The process entails pulling several dozen hair strands and assessing how many come out.
• Light microscopy: Light microscopy uses a special instrument to examine the hair at the base to discover any possible hair shaft disorders.

• Scalp biopsy: A scalp biopsy can help confirm if the hair thinning and loss are the result of an infection. In this, a skin and hair sample is taken and examined in detail under the microscope.

• What are the risk factors associated with hair thinning?
Various factors may heighten one’s risk of experiencing hair thinning. These include:
• Age
• Weight loss
• Family history of baldness
• Medical conditions like lupus, diabetes, and more
• Malnutrition
• Stress

• How can hair thinning be treated?
Hair thinning can be managed and treated effectively with the help of multiple therapies. The following is a list of ten remedies that have been studied to help hair thinning.
Scalp massage
A scalp massage is a tried and tested way to get thicker hair. This is the cheapest and easiest way to get the job done, and the best part: it comes with zero side effects.

The easiest way to get the job done is by applying gentle pressure on your scalp with your fingertips when you wash your hair. This action helps boost blood flow to the scalp, thereby encouraging hair growth. An alternate method is to use a scalp massager that helps remove dead skin cells from the scalp surface as well.

• Essential oils
Essential oils are extracted from plants. They are used in alternative medicine and aromatherapy. Every essential oil harbors a unique set of benefits. When it comes to hair thinning, lavender oil is the potion of choice.
As per the Mayo Clinic, lavender essential oil can help pattern baldness. It is often used in combination with other essential oils such as thyme and rosemary.
However, before you try your luck with essential oils, be sure to do a patch test first. Although helpful, essential oils can be quite potent and may result in a reaction in the form of redness, rashes, or hives.
Anti-thinning shampoo
Anti-thinning shampoos have become increasingly popular over the years. These shampoos are formulated with amino acids and vitamins that help boost hair growth by providing nourishment to the scalp. They also add more volume to your hair, making it appear thicker and fuller.

• Multivitamins
Your hair’s health relies heavily on your overall health. An individual with proper nutrition is more likely to have a healthier head of hair as opposed to its malnourished counterpart. Nutrient deficiencies are to blame in many cases of hair loss and thinning. Blood tests prescribed by your healthcare provider can help diagnose any deficiencies in your system.
If you are deficient in certain key areas, consult a healthcare professional who may advise you to take a daily multivitamin with essential nutrients for thick and strong hair growth such as zinc, folic acid, and iron.
Please note that you must not take multivitamins without a prescription. The Mayo Clinic advises against the consumption of any extra vitamins unless you are deficient in the.
• Biotin
Biotin, also referred to as vitamin B-7, is a water-soluble nutrient found naturally in foods such as liver, nuts, lentils, and more. Biotin has become increasingly popular over recent years owing to its hair growth benefits.
While biotin has been proven to help break down enzymes in the body, there is minimal evidence available on its action towards hair thinning.
Please note that if you are taking vitamin B5 supplements, refrain from taking biotin supplements as the two, when taken together, can reduce each other’s efficacy.
Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids
Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are referred to as essential fatty acids because the human body cannot produce them.

Omega-3 fatty acid helps the body fight inflammation, which is the underlying culprit behind numerous conditions, including premature hair loss. Omega-6 fatty acids are essential for overall skin health, which benefits the scalp.
Omega-3 fatty acids are abundant in fatty fish like tuna and salmon. As for omega-6 fatty acids, they can be found in plant-based oils. If these foods are not a part of your diet, incorporate them into your diet.

• Minoxidil
Minoxidil, most commonly known as Rogaine, is an over-the-counter hair loss treatment approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Minoxidil is widely available in the form of a foam or liquid. It helps promote hair growth in bald patches and spots when applied twice a day.
Studies suggest that Minoxidil may take up to four months of consistent use to bring about results. Possible side effects to look out for include scalp irritation and unwanted hair growth on different areas of the head and neck.
• Spironolactone
Spironolactone (Aldactone) is prescribed for people who experience androgen production-related hair thinning. In women, spironolactone has been studied to treat hair loss and thinning resulting from hormonal fluctuations. Spironolactone must be prescribed by a doctor after a detailed physical and bloodwork assessment.
• Finasteride
Finasteride (Propecia) is a prescription hair loss treatment exclusively for men. Finasteride, unlike topical ointments like Minoxidil, is available in the form of an everyday pill. Finasteride is not advised for women as it may pose serious potential side effects, especially in pregnant and nursing women.
• Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids are prescription medications used to treat an array of conditions related to underlying inflammation. Certain inflammatory conditions can result in symptoms, such as hair loss. Corticosteroids are to be used for a limited time duration as they are unsuitable for prolonged use.
• Can hair thinning and hair loss be prevented?
Hair thinning and hair loss can be avoided using the following tips.
Be gentle with your hair helps prevent unnecessary breakage and subsequent hair loss. Use a detangler to get rid of any knots. Avoid tugging your hair when brushing or combing it. Employ the use of a wide-toothed comb to prevent any unnecessary hair breakage. Avoid the use of harsh heat and chemical treatments. Minimize hair tension caused by braids, rubber bands, and barrettes.

Consult your doctor for any supplements and medication that may be triggering your hair loss.
Protect your hair from direct sunlight as well as other sources of UV light.
Refrain from smoking. Recent research suggests smoking may contribute to balding and hair thinning in men.
It is important to note that baldness, i.e., widespread hair loss resulting from genetics, cannot be prevented.

The most popular articles