Hair Thinning & Hair Loss

According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), it’s very common to lose 50 to 100 hairs per day. Any more than this could mean you’re losing more than you should, which could lead to overall thinning hair.

Thinning hair typically happens slowly, which means you have time to know the causes and figure out the best treatment possible.

What causes thinning hair?

Thinning hair may be caused by daily habits, genetics, or both. Certain medical conditions may also cause thinning of hair.

Lifestyle habits may include:

Over-treating your hair.
Using harsh hair products.
Wearing tight hairstyles.
Not getting a sufficient amount of iron, folic acid, and other minerals.
Experiencing extreme stress.

Thinning hair may also be caused by:

pulling at your own hair
Pcod/Pcos
eating disorders
a high fever

Treatments and home remedies for thinning hair

Some cases may be treatable at home. Consider these mentioned treatments which you can do at home, but make sure to talk with your doctor first.

1. Scalp massage

To get thicker hair is to have a nice scalp massage. It doesn’t cost anything, and if done properly, it isn’t harmful either.

When you wash your hair, gently massage by applying pressure with your fingertips around your scalp to enhance blood flow.

2. Essential oils

Essential oils are primarily used in aromatherapy and other types of different medicine.

Lavender oil has been used by some people with pattern baldness. Lavender is often combined with other essential oils, like rosemary and thyme.

Test a small quantity of the oil on your arm and wait for 24 hours to see if any reaction happens. Redness or a rash could indicate an allergic reaction.

3. Anti-thinning shampoo

Anti-thinning shampoo works in two different ways. First, they provide volume for your hair, so hair looks thicker. This can be helpful for those who have thin or naturally fine hair.

Shampoos for thinning hair or hair loss also contain vitamins and amino acids which help to promote a healthier scalp.

4. Multivitamins

Healthy hair depends on your overall good health. In cases of malnourishment,, new hair may stop generating from follicles. Healthy hair needs iron, folic acid, and zinc to keep growing strong. Look for some daily supplements for men and women that meet these needs.

However, you should keep away from taking any extra vitamins if you’re already getting the nutrients that your hairs need.

5. Folic acid supplements

Folic acid is a type of B vitamin that’s vital for new cell generation. A few studies have suggested that folate deficiency may be linked to some types of hair loss.

6. Biotin

Biotin, or vitamin B-7, is a water-soluble nutrient that’s naturally found in foods, like nuts, lentils, etc.

If you have a well-balanced diet, it’s doubtful that you’re low in biotin. While biotin helps break down enzymes in your body, there’s very little proof that it can help with thinning hair.

You should avoid taking biotin if you take vitamin B-5 supplements. When they are taken together, they can reduce the effectiveness of one another.

7. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids

Both fatty acids are called essential fatty acids as they can’t be made by the human body.

Omega-3 fatty acid helps your body fight inflammation, an underlying cause of several conditions. Premature hair loss may also be related to it.

Omega-6 is important for overall skin health, which might benefit the scalp as well.

8. Minoxidil

Minoxidil is an OTC hair loss treatment that is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

When applied directly to the scalp two times a day, minoxidil may slowly thicken hair in balding spots. Scalp irritation and unwanted growth of hair on the face and neck are possible side effects of using this.

9. Spironolactone

Spironolactone (Aldactone) is sometimes advised for people with thinning hair related to androgen production. In women, this may help treat thinning hair and following hair loss related to hormonal changes.

10. Finasteride

Finasteride (Propecia) is a prescription hair loss drug. Unlike topical treatments like minoxidil, Propecia comes as a daily pill that usually men take for hair loss.

Women should avoid this medication due to several serious side effects. People who are pregnant or nursing should also completely avoid this medication.

11. Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids are prescription treatments used for conditions linked to basic inflammation. Sometimes, inflammatory conditions can cause a variety of signs and symptoms, including hair loss.

12. At-home laser therapy

Laser treatment is basically used by dermatologists and other skin specialists. The FDA has cleared the technique for some products to be used at home.

At-home laser therapy for hair is planned to help regrow your hair while also making them thicker. The effect of the results can take several months.

When to look for a doctor?

Although it’s pretty common to lose hair all throughout the day, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor if you’re losing more than 100 hairs daily.

Hair loss in patches could also signify an underlying medical condition.

Take Away

While the process of thinning hair can be concerning initially, many types of thinning hair are usually treatable. Massaging with a good hair growth oil is also sometimes recommended.

If you’re encountering new hair loss or hair thinning, or if you’re developing any bald spots, you should speak to your doctor. They can help you find any underlying medical conditions, as well as provide any related medications.