Tips For Preventing Hair Loss

Posted: Monday 22 August 2011 10:47am

Hair loss can be caused by age, illness and genetics, and unfortunately these are difficult to treat without professional care. But another reason your hair might be falling out is the condition of your hair, the way you style it, and even what you eat. Take care of your tresses and help reduce the amount of unnecessary hair loss with these tips.

Don’t over-wash your hair

Excessive shampooing can damage your hair, especially if you use harsh formulas that strip the hair of moisture and natural oils. These will leave your strands dry and brittle. If you are noticing hair loss try shampooing your hair every second or third day rather than daily. Wet hair is more elastic and prone to breakage so after your shower make sure you blot your hair dry with a towel instead of roughly towel-drying.

Go easy on the hair brushing

Vigorous brushing, and brushing your hair when it’s wet, can do serious damage to your hair. Always brush your hair gently, starting at the ends and slowly brushing higher as you comb out the knots. Refrain from brushing damp hair as the tugging motion causes the weakened strands to snap.

Use gentle hair products

Harsh, chemical-rich products can result in hair breakage and hair loss. Visits to the hairdresser for a regular colour will also leave your hair damaged. If you can’t imagine skipping your six-weekly appointment then give your hair a helping hand with weekly hair masks and specially formulated shampoos and conditioners for colour-treated hair. They will help replenish lost moisture, are gentle on your strands, and seal the cuticle for a soft, smooth appearance. Another tip is to never dye your hair more than one or two shades darker or lighter than its normal colour. Severe colour changes require additional chemicals.

Hair styling product can also increase hair loss. Hairspray and gels can dry out hair, and if you brush after they set you’re more likely to pull the hair out. After you apply styling products to your tresses, comb it through and style immediately before it completely dries.

Ease up on the heat styling

It’s no surprise that the high heat you subject your hair to when you blowdry, straighten or curl your locks can encourage further hair loss. Always protect your hair with a heat protecting spray before using styling tools and try to let hair air dry on its own as often as possible.

Fun fact: On average, we lose fifty to a hundred hairs a day. So a little hair loss is to be expected!

Choose the right hairstyle

Pulling your hair taut into a ballerina bun day after day can cause stress to your hair, as well as breakage. If you prefer to have your hair up most days, try to keep it as loose as possible. Your hair accessories might also be causing breakage: Use a snagless hair elastic (one without a clasp) and limit the number of clips and bobby pins whenever possible. Take care when removing clips and hair ties.

Fix your diet

A deficiency in iron could be attributing to your hair loss. Check with your doctor to see if this is the case: A blood test will be able to tell you if you’re not getting enough iron. In the meantime if you think this might be your problem, change your diet to include rich sources of iron, such as oysters, mussel, steak, lamb and licorice.

Protein is also important in encouraging hair growth. Eat more meats, eggs, fish, nuts, seeds, and beans to help hair grow stronger.

Regularly trim your hair

A regular trim will keep split ends away, as well as help prevent damage. A haircut every 6-8 weeks will keep your hair in healthy condition and further encourage hair growth.

by Chelsea Tromans

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