Tackling Hair Loss

We all lose hair everyday; this is part of the natural hair growth cycle. The 10% of our hair which is in a resting phase would fall out every 2 or 3 months with 90% of the hair in a growth phase. Hair loss tends to get noticed when the loss is beyond the usual limit. Several factors could be behind hair loss. These include: Alopecia areata: Causes rapid hair loss and affects men and women. Identifiable with one or more spots of hair loss on the scalp. This is usually caused by an immunity disorder when the intrinsic white cells attack the hair follicles. Alopecia Totalis is another reason for hair loss where all the scalp hair has fallen. A rare condition sometimes occurs called Alopecia Universalis which involves complete loss of hair from the body.

Genetic reasons: This causes 25% men to be affected by male pattern baldness by age 30. Male hormone testosterone could also be another contributing factor. Testosterone is converted to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) which slows down or stops hair growth and produces weaker, shorter hair. Men who do not have testosterone do not get male pattern baldness.

Skin diseases: hair loss and affectation of the scalp can also happen due to this. The particular skin conditions which cause hair loss include: dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, scalp fungus such as ringworm and tinea captis.

Sudden illness or fever: hair can come off in large tufts after an illness or fever. This is generally a temporary condition however.

The other common factors which can also result in hair loss include childbirth, menopause, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and getting old. Over and above these main reasons, there are other reasons too.

Hair loss can often be treated successfully; not only can you stop hair from falling but you can re-grow hair as well. Here are some natural ways you could treat hair loss: 1. Vitamins A, B, C and E are hair promoters. Include them in the diet. What is the importance of these vitamins? They not only provide sebum, they also help in increase of blood circulation to the scalp by absorbing more oxygen and collagen.

2. Importance of scalp care: Remember to massage your scalp regularly with herbal oils like olive oil, jojoba oil, amla oil. Some conditions of alopecia areata can be effectively treated with essential oils of thyme, rosemary, lavender and cedar wood.

3. Avoid scalp abuse: Stop daily use of harmful chemical shampoos and blow drying. Hair and scalp can get severely damaged when you use chemical treatments like coloring as well as straightening. You hair is stripped of natural oils and turns brittle if you wash it daily with hot water.

4. Use of herbal care: There are some very effective options here. Use powders of amla, shikakai, henna and ritha as shampoo and conditioner. One of the richest sources of natural vitamin C is amla powder, known for its anti-oxidant properties. It is also excellent in preventing graying and hair loss. If you want a hair cleanser which cleanses without depriving your hair of its natural oils, go for Shikakai, also known as the Fruit for hair. It has a natural low pH. Henna is a wonder natural conditioner after this.

5. Reduce stress: Take the help of exercises and meditation to reduce stress levels, which is another factor in hair loss. Quit the Cancer Stick: The nicotine blocks the blood passage to the scalp, reducing blood supply to this region. Avoid excessive sun exposure as UV rays can burn and damage the scalp.

There are also some home remedies to treat hair loss.