Hair loss does not discriminate and can be a particularly distressing condition for both men and women. Typically, humans lose about fifty (50) to a hundred (100) hairs every day, but this is not usually noticed as it is continually replaced by new hair growth. Hair loss becomes noticeable when the rate at which hair is lost exceeds the rate at which it is replaced. One exciting new treatment that can be used to stimulate new hair growth and rejuvenate the scalp is PRP injections which will be discussed further on.

Hair loss can be the result of several factors working in tandem, and often when the process begins, people act as if they cannot stop it. However, this simply is not the case and there are several natural remedies and new advancements that can help you to fight for your luscious locks.

What causes hair loss?

As stated before, hair loss can be caused by a myriad of factors, some of which work together. These include genetics, hormonal changes, medical conditions and medication, radiation therapy, severe stress, and nutritional deficiencies. Even though some of these are beyond our control there are steps that we can take to mitigate and even reverse the effects of hair loss.

What can be done to reduce hair loss?

Preventing Hair Loss

PRP Treatment:

A PRP treatment involves taking a blood sample from the scalp and then processing it so that only platelet rich cells remain (the red blood cells are removed). It is then re-injected into the scalp with a thin needle and this stimulates scalp rejuvenation and new hair growth. This can also be combined with a hair transplant where injections are used to stimulate the scalp prior to undergoing the surgery and to promote growth post-operation. PRP can also be used on its own to slow the progression of hair loss and to encourage the follicles to grow.

Avoid hairstyles that pull excessively on hair

Hairstyles that pull your hair away from your scalp with excessive force reduce the bond between your hair and scalp and cause hair to break and be lost.

Avoid heat application

Excessive heat dries the hair follicle, causing it to become dehydrated and much more susceptible to damage. Tools such as hair dryers, hair straighteners, and curling irons can cause significant damage if repeatedly used.

Avoid chemically treating or bleaching your hair

Chemical treatments work by degrading disulfide bonds that exist in the hair. These bonds are responsible for holding the protein in your hair together. Repeatedly breaking down these bonds weakens the hair and can lead to breakage.

Supplements

A diet that supplies the nutritional requirements of Iron, zinc, niacin, selenium, vitamin D, and vitamin B-12 supplements can help to produce healthy, strong, and beautiful hair.

Essential oils

Oils such as peppermint, castor oil, jojoba, and tea tree have been implicated in stimulating hair growth.

Using coconut oil

In a 2018 study, it was found that coconut oil may help to prevent hair loss from ultraviolet light damage or grooming habits.

Diet

Diets rich in antioxidants can help fight oxidative stress, which is the environmental factor that damage hair follicles. Foods that are rich in antioxidants include strawberries, blueberries, beans and legumes, spinach, and kale. Diets rich in raw vegetables and fresh herbs may reduce the risk of hereditary hair loss, or at least slow the onset. A protein-rich diet (lean meats, fish, soy, or other proteins) also helps keep hair healthy.

It is well within your power to fight hair loss. Whether it is with simple changes, natural remedies, or a PRP injection, give yourself a fighting chance.  Do not let hair loss win.