10 Common ‘Hair-Raising’ Questions Answered

Questions regarding hair problems are never ending. Here are some most common ‘hair-raising’ questions answered to ease your doubts.

• Can my hair regrow? Will I get back all the hair I have lost?

  Hair regrowth largely depends on the hair problem you are diagnosed with and how much it has progressed. For example: male Patterned Baldness in its early stages responds well to treatment. In advance stages it may not be possible to bring back your lost hair but the progress of hair loss can be slowed down. On the other hand, hair loss is 100% reversible in cases of patchy hair loss (alopecia areata), or after a bout of fever (typhoid, malaria), or anaemia. Hair loss is not reversible in scarring hair loss. It’s best to consult a trichologist for a personalized review for each individual case.

• How long will I have to take treatment for hair loss?

  Most cases of hair loss require long term treatment (often for years). Hair growth cycle is of 3-7years. It is important not to lose patience during treatment because impatience and resulting stress will slow down the process of recovery.

  Consider it a lifestyle illness, much like high blood pressure or diabetes where you keep taking pills for all your life to keep them under control. This holds good for progressive hair loss. You have to keep taking medicines for a long time, but then it’s worth your time and effort.

• Is stress related to Hair loss?

  The effect of stress on hairloss has been known for a long time. While it is natural to lose about 50-100 strands of hair each day, there is no reason for us to worry when our hair seems thin or it falls more than usual or falls in clumps or small bald patches appear. When this happens you think of stress as a factor affecting your health and in turn your hair. Stress triggered hairloss is generally short-term or temporary. Once the stress factor is reduced, there is often re-growth, although the process can take up to six months or more, provided no stressor exists. Chronic stress can cause substantial damage to your hair sometimes leading to permanent baldness.

• How can one control the damage caused by hair colours and dyes?

  Hair colours and dyes are harmful for your hair, but these have become a necessary ‘evil’ in our times. It is always better to do a patch skin test, if you are colouring or dyeing your hair to see if your skin reacts adversely. If your skin does not react, you can safely apply the colour or dye on the scalp. One good option is using a colour or dye with no ammonia. Coloured hair requires special care such as colour protect shampoos and conditioner regularly, protecting from harsh sunlight and washing hair with cool water (at best, lukewarm water).

• Is Henna a good option to hair dyes or colours?

  Natural henna is better than dyes and also safe. While chemical colours seep into the hair shaft, henna only coats the hair from the outside without seeping into the shaft. Hence it is safe. The only problem with henna is it dries up the hair. Just condition your hair well before applying henna. Henna does not promote growth and has no effect on dandruff.

• What is the role of oils in improving hair growth and as a conditioner?

  Oil conditions your hair. So, if you have dry hair, applying oil is good because it moistens hair roots and conditions your hair. Oil is good for the scalp, but only if your scalp is dry. However, hair oil does not promote hair growth.

• Does yogurt (curd) or beer help to control dandruff?

  Not really, although yogurt may help in fighting dandruff, thanks to its probiotic (good bacteria) action.

  Remember, hair loss and dandruff is primarily medical conditions. They are best treated by a professional trichologist, along with dietary changes.  Applying beer is a big No. a better, natural and healthier option in fighting dandruff is to intake flaxseeds in your diet. Flaxseeds have natural ingredients that help control dandruff.

• Is it compulsory to use a conditioner after each hair wash?

  A conditioner is good, once or twice a week; it softens your hair. But, you don’t have to use it each time you shampoo your hair. A conditioner is useful if you have frizzy or dry hair. Conditioner should be applied only in the length of the hair and not from the scalp. Applying a conditioner from the scalp tends to make the hair more elastic and breaks them easily. The work of a conditioner is just to detangle and make the hair smooth and easy to comb.

• What makes a good hair care regime?

  Men must shampoo thrice a week; women should shampoo twice a week, since they have long hair. Avoid the use of powerful, strong soaps on your hair. You may use a shampoo with natural extracts, and with good effect, too. Condition regularly, with a good conditioner. Oil may be applied once or twice a week along with a gentle head massage.

• What is your best plan for healthy, lustrous and beautiful hair?

  A calm attitude, good sleep, healthy relationships, balanced diet and a good hair care regime. Never abuse your hair with powerful colour treatments or amateur parlour procedures that may cause damage to the hair. Hair is a plant and requires a good quality manure to help it grow well and be healthy. Intake of nutritious foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, flaxseeds will help to nourish your hair and keep them healthy. Trimming hair from time to time helps to remove split ends and managing hair becomes easier. The moment you notice hair loss, dandruff or any other scalp problems, consult a professional trichologist without delay.

  Your hair will express a big Thank You for this.