Common Hair Loss Questions Answered for You
Although hair loss is fairly common, it can be difficult to live with. Most of us shy away from asking for help, feeling embarrassed to admit that we face hair loss. Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Hair loss is more common and normal than you think it is. There are several types of hair loss and many different causes that contribute to this scalp condition. Here we list the top 10 hair loss questions that most people need answered.
- Does frequent combing cause hair loss?
Combing your hair a couple of times a day, is not a cause of hair loss in itself. However, combing your hair roughly by pulling at knots or combing when your hair is wet can dislodge a few strands. The strands that fall are often already at the end of their life cycle. So, this hair fall can be considered normal.
- Does shaving increase hair growth?
No, it doesn’t. Many people believe that shaving helps hair grow back thicker. This is a false notion born out of the fact that a shaved strand of hair appears sharp and dark at the tip. The actual hair follicle – which influences your hair growth – is deeper in your scalp. So, shaving your hair has no effect on the follicle.Shaving does help psychologically for patients undergoing treatment such as chemotherapy.
- How much hair loss in a day is considered normal?
The average woman loses about 50 to 100 strands of hair per day. The average man loses about 25 to 50 strands of hair per day. Most of our hair fall occurs while we are busy and don’t even notice it. If you want to understand if your hair fall rate is normal, run yourhands steadily through your scalp. If around 5 to 7 strands get dislodged, this is normal. Anything more – 15 strands of hair or more – means you have a serious hair loss issue and need to consult your doctor.
- Does dandruff cause hair loss?
Dandruff is not a directcause of hair loss. However, dandruff flakes make the scalp itchy. Constant scratching makes your hair roots brittle and this leads to hair loss. Thus, if you have dandruff treat it immediately to avoid becoming a victim of hair loss.
- Can accessories like helmets worsen hair loss?
The answer is yes. Tight helmets, headbands and clips can cause your hair to break. Thus, people who wear helmets over an extended period of time, often notice tiny bald patches develop. Simply tie a bandana around your hair before you slip on a helmet. For ladies, wear headbands only when required: for instance, when you hit the gym. Avoid tying your hair too tightly.
- Is smoking a cause of hair loss?
Excessive consumption of cigarettes over a long period will cause hair loss, among other problems. The reason behind this is that smoking affects the lungs, the liver and reduces blood circulation to the body extremities. Your hair follicles depend on a steady supply of oxygen and blood to thrive. Unhealthy or dying follicles lead directly to excessive hair fall.
- Does blow drying lead to hair loss?
Blow drying your hair occasionally will not cause any hair damage. However, using a blow dry daily can increase scalp dryness and cause hair breakage. The same goes for styling gear like tongs. Towel and air dry your hair. Save the blow dryer and styling for special occasions.
- Is hair loss permanent?
Not always. If genetic factors cause your hair loss, then yes, it is permanent and you might need to seek professional hair fall treatment. If your hair loss is caused due to hormonal medication, pregnancy and any kind of illness, then it is a temporary phase and your hair will grow back. When we fall ill, our hair is one of the first parts of the bodyto show signs.
- Can children face hair loss?
Yes. Hair loss in children is a sign that they are unwell. A bad diet, a fungal scalp infection or some other sickness like a viral fever may cause a child to lose hair. Girls who tie tight cornrows or pigtails can also experience hair loss and even develop bald patches near their fringe line.
- What is hair restoration surgery?
Hair restoration surgery involves transplanting hair follicles from the back of the head to the front. Hair follicles at the back of the head are generally resistant to balding. Post-surgery, these follicles begin to grow hair normally. The surgery is done under local anaesthesia and the results are permanent.
