What is Hair loss?

It is normal to lose 50 to 100 hairs a day. In place of them new ones grow. But the problem is when more hair falls out than grows back in.

Genetic baldness is caused by the body’s failure to produce new hairs. In men the hairline recedes into a bald plate and in women it is an overall thinning so they do not develop a bald patch.

Symptoms of Hair loss

1. Overall hair thinning in women.
2. In men, hairline recedes and develops into a bald spot on the crown of the head.
3. Circular bald patches appear due to sudden hair loss.

Causes of Hair loss

1. Hormones and genes are responsible for hereditary pattern baldness.
2. In women oral contraceptives, hormonal changes during pregnancy and afterwards are responsible for sudden dramatic hair loss. Improper diet, anemia, thyroid disorders, emotional stress and various drugs and medications particularly chemotherapy can cause hair loss.
3. Excess intake of Vitamin A is another cause.
4. Wearing tight hats or wigs constantly causes Friction Alopecia.
5. When hair is pulled tight into ponytails or braids hair falls out (Traction alopecia). Alopecia Areata can cause complete hair loss or patches.

Natural treatment for Hair loss

1. Overexposure to sun, straightening, bleaching, permanent waves and hot combs should be avoided.
2. Use baby shampoo, that too only once a day.
3. Comb your hair gently particularly if it is thinning.
4. If you are using hair dryer keep it on a low setting.
5. Thinning hair can be made less noticeable by applying, hair-color eye shadow in the thin spots.
6. Hair thinning in women can be hidden by hair cosmetics like gels, mousse and spray or by having a short haircut. The visual effects of hair loss can be minimized by hair dyes.

How can one Prevent Hair loss

1. Brush your hair only when it is dry. Detangle the hair with brush. Use nylon brush or natural bristle brush with rounded edges.
2. Eat lot of fresh vegetables and fruits which will maintain healthy hair.