When people start to notice thinning hair or hair loss, it affects how they perceive themselves, as well as how others perceive them. What people often fail to recognize is that many factors, beyond genetics and age, contribute to hair loss, including daily grooming habits. While determining the precise cause of hair loss can be complicated, eliminating contributing factors can slow or even stop the process.
Overuse Of Hair Products
Hair products are often advertised and promoted as the key to a thick, healthy-looking head of hair. When you start to notice thinning hair, it's common to search for products that will help you regain some lost volume. While many of these products may give you the style and look that you want, they can be harmful to your hair when used too often.
Many hair products contain chemicals that can damage your hair's structure, and the hair follicles if overused. Gels, mousse, pomades, hair sprays, and leave-in conditioners may save you from a potentially bad hair day, but when used daily, these products can strip your hair of its natural oils. Daily use of hair products can also cause residue to build up, which can clog and damage hair follicles, slow down hair growth, and contribute to hair loss.
While shampooing your hair is typically a part of many people's daily routines, shampoo can also contribute to hair loss. Many shampoos contain chemicals, scents, and preservatives, which can damage hair shafts and follicles. Using too much shampoo and conditioner can strip away the natural oils that moisturize and protect the hair. To improve your hair's health and the regulation of your hair's natural oils, switch from shampooing every day to every-other-day, and merely rinse your hair on the days in between.
Brushing, Combing, and Detangling
Brushing your hair is commonly believed to help distribute natural oils from your scalp to the end of the hair, making it appear shiny and healthy. While brushing your hair may make it look good for the moment, the regular tugging weakens and breaks individual strands, damaging hair follicles and contributing to hair loss.
Wet hair is even weaker and more prone to breakage than dry hair, and brushing or styling your hair before it is fully dry can lead to damage. Let your hair dry completely and never use a brush, fine-toothed comb, or styling tools, like a flatiron or curling iron, until your hair is fully dried.
If you struggle with stubborn tangles after a wash, don't forcefully brush them out. Avoid vigorously drying your hair and instead lightly wring and pat it dry with a towel before using a wide-toothed comb to gently start detangling from the middle. Carefully combing your hair will reduce strain on the scalp, snagging or tearing of hair strands, and minimize hair thinning and loss.
Hairstyles
Creating the hairstyle you want, whether it's perfect curls or a professional business look, can take a lot of work. Not only the chemicals and tools involved, but the hairstyle you choose can exacerbate hair loss.
Tight hairstyles, such as ponytails and braids, firmly pull the hair shafts, straining the hair and causing it to fall out or break. Hair accessories, such as elastic hair ties and hairpins, can also strain the hair shaft and damage the follicles. Switching to looser hairstyles and avoiding consistent use of tight ones can reduce broken hairs and permanent damage to the hair follicles.
What Can You Do?
While often due to age and genetics, other factors, such as grooming habits, can contribute to thinning hair and hair loss. At New Image, our professional staff is trained in every aspect of hair care, and we understand how important your hair is to you.
We have the knowledge and expertise to provide you with solutions for hair loss such as laser hair therapy, hair restoration systems for men and women, topical thickening products, and more. To learn more about what causes thinning hair and hair loss, and common mistakes you could be making, contact us today to schedule your FREE consultation.