If you are an avid Google or Pinterest user, you've likely searched for natural remedies for a lot of common ailments. One Facebook status update about a cough will bring multiple comments from friends with suggestions from essential oils to cool mist humidifiers. There are "experts" all over the internet offering alternative treatments to just about anything. Hair loss treatment is no exception. Whether your hair loss is genetic, a medical condition, pregnancy-related, or seemingly out-of-nowhere you've probably wondered if there is a quick home remedy that will nip it in the bud.
One quick Google search will bring up hundreds of articles with advice and cure-alls. Among these, one of the most common natural remedies is the use of Apple Cider Vinegar to prevent and treat hair loss. It is said that the apple cider vinegar will clean your scalp, rejuvenate hair follicles, and accelerate hair growth. There are YouTube videos, blog posts, tweets, and even online magazine articles on the topic.
With so many first-hand success stories and before and after photos, it begs the question: does it really work?
The argument is that while some daily hair loss is normal, more than 100 strands a day is out of the ordinary and cause for suspicion of a more serious condition. For many, the theory is that the hair follicles have been dried and damaged to the point of breakage. Then, when the hair grows back, it is thinner and weaker and the cycle continues until the follicles actually die and stop producing hair altogether. The apple cider vinegar is said to help repair the damaged strands with its oil. In addition, the apple cider vinegar advocates also claim that germs on the scalp can also cause hair loss. The apple cider vinegar's high acidity and powerful enzymes can supposedly kill the germs that cause scalp irritation and hair loss.
We all know the saying, though, "if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is."
There are many health benefits associated with apple cider vinegar, but treating hair loss is not one of them. The apple cider vinegar approach is actually a natural remedy for dirty hair. It is a great way to deeply cleanse the scalp to rid it of left-over products or waxy buildup from shampoos/conditioners. When this is done, it helps alleviate conditions such as clogged hair follicles that cause dandruff. This can make the hair appear fuller and more voluminous simply because it does not have products weighing it down.
This should be done sparingly and with caution, though, as using too much apple cider vinegar can be harmful to the hair. The scalp produces natural oils to maintain cleanliness and shine. The apple cider vinegar not only strips away leftover products, it strips away the natural oils. If this is done too much, it can lead to thinning and breakage of hair.
As with most things in life, there are no quick fixes. There are natural and organic ways to help relieve some symptoms, but treatment requires intervention that, unfortunately, apple cider vinegar can't offer.
The good news is that New Image Hair Clinic can pick up where the vinegar leaves off. There are a variety of solutions available for hair loss such as Laser Hair Therapy, Gradual Hair Restoration, Hair Replacements, along with many more. The benefit to consulting with a specialist over taking advice from "Dr. Google" is that the core cause of the damage, thinning, or loss can be discovered. Once the source is identified, treatment will be individualized and targeted specifically to the client's needs. There are rarely one-size-fits-all solutions when it comes to clinical wellness.
If you are ready to discuss your options, contact us. We'd love to talk with you and create an individualized plan for your needs.