Hair Fall: Causes & Basic Care

Earlier, my own hair also started falling, so I started trying to find out the reason for it. I thought maybe the condition of my hair was getting worse due to some new shampoo or oil, but when I read about it, I understood that there can be many different reasons for hair fall.

Sometimes it is said that there is excessive hair fall for some time and then it becomes better after that, the thinning of hair can be due to some internal reason, that is why I think it is important to first understand Why hair falls?

It is normal for a few hairs to fall every day. About 50 to 100 hairs fall every day. This is often misunderstood, but it is not the same in every person. The thing to notice is whether the hair is appearing thin or an empty space is forming on the head.

What is the common cause of hair loss?

When I tried to understand this topic, I came to know that hair fall is not due to just one reason, it is different for different people.

1. Genetic cause

If there is an issue of thinning & receding of hair in the family, then its effect is also visible in the next generation. In women, it results in overall thinning of hair. Whereas in men, the phenomenon of receding of the front line of hair and receding of hair on top is more common.

Therefore, if a hair problem is already present in the family, then just changing the oil or shampoo will not necessarily make a difference.

2. Stress or illness

After any major illness, operation, high fever or any stress, people may feel their hair falling more than usual. Such a condition can happen, and the condition of hair can improve with time.

3. Nutritional deficiency

It is not enough to take care of the hair health only externally, it also needs a balanced diet. Deficiency of iron, protein and zinc is associated with hair fall. Therefore, if the hair suddenly starts falling excessively, before buying a new shampoo or oil, pay attention to your diet.

Balanced diet may include proteins, vegetables, fruits & other essential nutrients.

4. Hormones and thyroid

Changes in hormones can also affect the condition of hair. During hormonal changes in women, hair becomes thinner. Similarly, some thyroid-related hormones are also associated with hair loss.

Therefore, if hair fall continues and other physical symptoms are also experienced, it is more important to consult a doctor rather than relying only on cosmetic products.

5. Pulling hair tight

I have also realized that we are aware of but ignore some hair styling habits. If the hair is tied in a very tight ponytail or bun or braided every day, then there is constant tension on the roots, and the hair can get damaged. This hair loss is called traction alopecia.

Therefore, instead of keeping your hair tightly tied all the time, it is better to have loose hairstyles sometimes.

6. Heat and chemical treatments

Straightening the hair, hair dryers, frequent coloring and bleaching etc. can damage the hair. Understand one thing here, especially for me, breakage of the hair and hair fall are not the same thing.

Hair can also break due to excessive heat or chemicals, so it is important to see whether the hair is falling from the root or breaking from the middle.

What do I understand about hair care?

It is not necessary to make a very complicated routine for hair. In my opinion, basic habits are more important.

Washing hair gently:

It is better to apply shampoo gently on the hair. Avoid rubbing the hair vigorously or scratching the scalp with nails. How often should the hair be washed? It depends on the hair type of each person, hence the same washing routine is not necessary for everyone.

Using hair conditioner:

Applying conditioner after shampoo can help keep hair soft and reduce breakage during combing. It’s a good idea to have conditioner be a part of your routine, especially if your hair is damaged or tangled.

Wet hair care:

Wet hair can be more delicate, that’s why I think it is better to handle it gently rather than rubbing it too hard with a towel or brushing it with force. I also understand that keeping hair beautiful does not mean using such products, but it is about the way you handle it.

Reducing heat exposure on hair:

If straighteners or curling irons are used daily, hair can get damaged. When heat is to be used, it is important to maintain proper temperature. It is better to avoid unnecessary heat styling.

Reduce tight hairstyles:

If you wear a tight ponytail or bun every day, it is better to keep the hair loose sometimes; especially if there is tension on the scalp due to the hairstyle, it should not be ignored.

Should supplements be taken immediately after hair fall?

It is not always a good idea to start a supplement. If there is a lack of vitamins, the doctor can suggest tests as needed.

In fact, even excess vitamins can cause harm. The idea that excess vitamins = healthy hair is wrong.

My easy hair care routine

My biggest learning about hair care is that the simpler and more consistent the routine, the better the results will be.

  • Do not tie your hair too tight
  • Do not rub your wet hair vigorously
  • Apply the shampoo gently on the scalp
  • Try to use hair conditioner as per your need
  • Don’t pull your hair and don’t brush too harshly
  • Don’t start taking supplements on your own just because of hair fall
  • Reduce the use of straighteners and curling irons
  • Give hair breaks from frequent chemical treatments

FAQs

Is daily hair fall normal?

Yes, daily hair fall is a normal part of the hair growth cycle. The average of 50 to 100 hairs falling daily is often said to be normal, but the actual concern shows in hair thinning and hair density.

Can applying oil stop hair fall?

While oil can help in keeping the hair soft and conditioned, it is not a cure for every type of hair loss. If the reason is genetic, nutritional, hormonal or medical, then it is more important to understand the real reason.

Can a tight ponytail damage your hair?

Yes, constant stretching can damage the hair and its roots, so it is best not to make very tight hairstyles a daily habit.

Is hair fall permanent?

No, some may be temporary while some may last for a long time, hence it is important to know the real reason for hair fall.

Does brushing hair cause hair fall?

Rough brushing can cause hair breakage and unnecessary pulling so it’s better to brush gently.

Can wet hair be brushed?

Yes, but wet hair is more delicate, so it should be handled and brushed carefully.

Last thing

Hair fall is such a thing that we start blaming oil, shampoo or serum, but with the passage of time, I understood that for healthy hair, one cannot rely on external care only.

Stress, illness, poor diet, tight hairstyle, hormonal changes, excessive heat, chemical treatment, all play their role.

Therefore, my advice is that first look at your hair care habits and overall health, then look for the reason. If hair is falling excessively then do not ignore it.

This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for any treatment.
bolohoor.com does not represent any medical institutions.

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About the author

Um-e-Habiba is the founder and writer behind Bolo Hoor, where she shares honest, practical beauty, skincare and haircare tips from her own experience.

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