Daily Trust Sunday

Dealing with hair loss

- Compiled by Etim Bassey Rosemary

Hair loss, a common concern for both men and women, can be caused by various factors, including genetics, hormonal imbalances, stress, and lifestyle choices. While not all forms of hair loss can be completely reversed, several remedies can help manage the condition and promote hair growth. Here are some effective approaches to deal with hair loss:

Healthy diet: A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals is crucial for hair health. Incorporat­e foods like eggs, nuts, seeds, leafy greens, and lean proteins, as they provide essential nutrients for hair growth.

Scalp massage: Massaging your scalp increases blood circulatio­n, which can stimulate hair follicles. You can use essential oils like lavender, rosemary, or coconut oil during the massage for added benefits.

Hair care routine: Use mild shampoos and conditione­rs, and avoid excessive heat styling, as it can damage hair. Be gentle when brushing and avoid tight hairstyles that can pull on the hair.

Avoid harsh chemicals: Limit the use of harsh chemicals and dyes on your hair. These can weaken and damage the hair shaft.

Stress management: Chronic stress can lead to hair loss. Practice stress-reduction techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises to help manage stress levels.

Prescripti­on medication­s:

Consult a healthcare profession­al to discuss medication­s like minoxidil and finasterid­e, which are FDA-approved to treat hair loss. These can be effective for some individual­s.

Topical treatments: Some over-the-counter topical treatments, such as serums containing caffeine or other growth-promoting ingredient­s, may help slow hair loss and promote regrowth.

Laser therapy: Lowlevel laser therapy (LLLT) devices are available that can stimulate hair follicles and promote hair growth. Consult a healthcare provider for recommenda­tions.

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy: In this procedure, a person’s blood is drawn, processed, and then injected into the scalp. PRP contains growth factors that can stimulate hair follicles and encourage regrowth.

Hair transplant: For individual­s with more advanced hair loss, hair transplant­ation is an option. It involves moving hair follicles from one area of the body to the thinning or balding area.

Supplement­s: Biotin, vitamins (such as A, D, E, and

B-complex), and minerals like iron and zinc can support hair health. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.

Aloe vera: Aloe vera gel can be applied to the scalp to reduce inflammati­on and promote hair growth. It also helps balance the pH of the scalp.

Onion juice: Some studies suggest that applying onion juice to the scalp can promote hair growth. The sulfur content in onions may help with hair regrowth.

Natural oils: Oils like castor oil and olive oil can be applied to the scalp to moisturize and strengthen the hair. They may also have some benefit in promoting hair growth.

Wig or hairpiece: If other remedies are ineffectiv­e, wigs or hairpieces can provide a non-surgical solution to conceal hair loss and boost self-confidence.

It’s important to note that not all remedies work for everyone, and results can vary depending on the underlying cause of hair loss. It’s advisable to consult with a healthcare profession­al or dermatolog­ist to determine the cause of your hair loss and develop a personaliz­ed treatment plan. Additional­ly, patience is key, as most hair growth remedies take time to show visible results. Combining multiple approaches may provide the best results, and remember that maintainin­g overall health and managing stress can significan­tly impact the health and appearance of your hair.

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