The Do’s and Don’ts of Preventing Female Hair Loss
Hair loss is not just a “man’s issue” — in fact, approximately 20 million American women suffer from some degree of hair loss. Why?Well, the causes of one’s symptoms will vary, but among women, hormonal levels and genetics tend to play a role. Although a complex issue, there is hope in terms of prevention.
How Can I Prevent Hair Loss?
Remember, everyone is unique. Female hair loss can be caused by a combination of factors, including lifestyle choices and overall well-being. Regardless of potential underlying issues, there are key steps to take, in addition to controlling and avoiding other harmful variables.
DO — Take These Steps
Trying to proactively maintain healthy hair? If so, please:
Manage stress levels — for those who suffer from alopecia or Telogen Effluvium, stress is likely a main trigger. The effects of stress in the body can disrupt the natural hair growth cycle, so be sure to practice deep breathing, yoga, and other calming exercises.
Increase your intake of key nutrients — as many as 10 percent of American adults are deficient in vitamin D, better known as the sunshine vitamin. Research has shown that this essential nutrient may prevent hair loss by stimulating production. The same is true for vitamin E, as it helps increase circulation, delivering oxygen and nutrients to hair follicles. In order to consume enough hair-strengthening biotin (vitamin B7), consume more fish, nuts, fruits, carrots, eggs and whole grains.
Monitor the signs — early intervention is the best possible treatment, so be aware of the following: thinning of hair; a widening part; increased scalp visibility; an accumulation of hair on your brush, pillow or within the shower.
DO NOT — Participate in the Following
Just as women can proactively reduce their risk, there are some habits and choices that can increase risk — so, do not:
Stress — as mentioned above, stress can alter the body’s biochemistry and in turn, negatively affect hair follicles.
Take birth control — when taking high androgen birth control (pills that yield a high index of this specific steroid), this can cause an increase in DHT production, resulting in a hormonal imbalance.
Smoke and binge drink — smoking significantly affects circulation and can essentially starve hair follicles of nutrient-rich blood, while increasing free radical damage. Binge drinking can also yield nutritional imbalances and dehydrate the body, negatively affecting hair growth.
Although hair loss can be worrisome, early intervention is key — especially if hair loss is related to a more serious health condition. Your doctor and a hair loss specialist will be able to properly diagnose the root cause, so please do not hesitate to seek their opinion.
At Transitions Hair Loss Centers, we offer hair loss prevention services for women experiencing thinning hair, the early stages of female pattern baldness, or problems associated with the scalp. To schedule a free hair and scalp analysis at one of our hair loss studios nearest you click here.
Source:
https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/vitamin-d-deficiency-united-states/