Thicker and lustrous hair is a part of our personality and a good hair care routine keeps hair nourished and healthy with increased self-confidence and an enhanced personality. Advancing towards a healthy hair care routine can prevent some problems relating to hair fall and hair loss. Let’s delve deeper into the topic to understand more about hair fall, hair loss, phases of hair loss, and the methods to minimize hair loss and hair shedding.
Understanding Hair Fall & Hair Loss
Hair fall is a naturally occurring situation seen in most individuals including children. Typically, a person sheds 50-100 hair strands per day which are replaced by new hair strands. However, the situation becomes alarming when the new hair strands do not replace the shredded hair strands. This condition is commonly known as hair loss and in medical terms, it is called “alopecia”.
The basic difference between hair fall and hair loss can be identified by the number of hair strands falling out. The time when an individual experiences loss of hair looms instead of negligible hair strands, then the deep analysis should be done to identify the root cause of excessive hair shedding and minimize its effects.
Hair loss(alopecia) has different patterns, indicating different causes leading to hair loss. Depending upon the understated patterns of hair loss, one can identify the root cause and the perfect solution to the problem.
There are some alopecia patterns mentioned below:
- Widened partition: If you notice your part getting wider, then you must consider a solution for your thinning hair.
- Hairline receding: The hairline retreating backward is a clear sign of excessive hair shedding and hair thinning.
- Loose hair strands: Finding looms of hair instead of individual hair strands on hair brushes, pillows, or shower drains? A definitely alarming situation of hair thinning.
- Bald spots or patches: Bald patches can be found in both men & women and this is also an alarming situation of excessive hair shedding and hair thinning.
Understanding the Causes of Hair Loss
Hair loss is a phase of the hair growth cycle and generally, it is a reversible situation without medical help. Some types of hair loss are common in most people while some are rare. Some factors that cause excessive hair loss and hair thinning include genetic factors, internal factors, and external factors.
Here’s a look at some causes of hair loss:
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Androgenic Alopecia: Androgenic alopecia, also known as “pattern hair loss” or “pattern baldness” is genetic or hereditary hair loss. Androgenic alopecia causes gradual hair loss and affects middle-aged people and older people. In some cases, hair loss starts as soon as puberty is hit. It is the most common condition occurring in more than 50% of the population. It occurs in two patterns i.e., male pattern baldness and female pattern baldness in both men and women respectively.
Female pattern baldness results in hair loss all over the scalp noticeable through widened parts and receding hairline. It typically occurs in old-aged women but it can now be noticed in middle-aged women also.
Male pattern baldness affects men over 50 years of age creating an ‘M’ shape over the crown of the head. Hair loss occurs in a progressive manner above the temples and the crown. - Alopecia Areata: Alopecia areata causes the immune system to attack hair follicles resulting in small and large bald patches on the scalp. Some cases even lead to complete hair loss. Additionally, some people with this condition lose their hair from eyebrows, eyelashes, and other parts of the body.
- Telogen Effluvium: Telogen effluvium presents as a sudden and excessive shedding of hair caused by physiological or psychological stressors. Events like childbirth, illness, surgery, or extreme stress can trigger this condition, leading to a temporary disruption in the hair growth cycle.
- Traction Alopecia: Traction alopecia results from the persistent pulling of hair, commonly due to tight hairstyles like braids, ponytails, or extensions. Over time, this constant pulling damages hair follicles, resulting in hair loss, particularly around the hairline and temples.
- Tinea Capitis: Tinea capitis, also known as the ringworm of the scalp, is a fungal infection that affects the scalp and hair shaft. It causes small and large bald patches that are scaly and itchy. If not treated on time, the size of the patch or patches will gradually increase resulting in pus.
Treatments of Hair Loss
Choosing the best option available to treat the root cause of hair loss should be the priority. Get medical help and over-the-counter medications consisting of shampoo, conditioners, gels, solutions, or foams that you can apply directly to the scalp. Also, sticking to other methods can provide long-term solutions to continued hair loss.
- Nutritional Balance: A well-balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins is essential for maintaining healthy hair. Nutrients like biotin, vitamin D, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids play vital roles in promoting hair growth and preventing hair loss.
- Stress management: Manage stress through relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or mindfulness exercises. Prioritize self-care and make time for activities that help you relax and unwind, whether it's reading, taking a bath, spending time outdoors, or engaging in hobbies you enjoy.
- Choosing the Right Products: When it comes to hair care products, opt for gentle, sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners offered by FCL formulated to promote scalp health and hair strength. Additionally, consider incorporating hair loss-specific treatments like hair masks, serums, or foams into your haircare regimen.
Products that are highly effective in combating the problem of postpartum hair fall are:
- FCL Strengthening Shampoo: FCL Strengthening shampoo is designed as a preventive solution to hair loss and thinning hair concerns ideal for frequent usage. Enriched with 2% shea butter it is perfect for controlling causes of hair loss also.
- FCL Strengthening Conditioner: A restoration conditioner for dehydrated hair that provides luster and nourishes damaged hair with vitamins and proteins.
- FCL Hair Strengthening Mask: Strengthening Hair Mask is an instant revival treatment for weak and damaged hair. Enriched with proteins, antioxidants, and 98% natural nourishing ingredients, this creamy mask provides deep conditioning and hydration to dull, lifeless, and brittle hair, and restores hair elasticity and shine.
In the process of hair loss, understanding the root of its causes, treatments, and preventive measures is important. By arming oneself with knowledge and adopting proactive strategies, one can navigate the challenges of hair loss with resilience and confidence, reclaiming control over your mane and embracing the beauty of your unique journey.
