5 Tips for Preventing Hair Loss

Have you noticed an increased amount of hair on your pillow in the morning? Perhaps looking through old photos, you notice a change in your hairline. Mild to moderate hair loss effects around 50% of men and women comprise roughly 40% of American hair loss sufferers (American Hair Loss Association). When it comes to hair loss, prevention is key. Follow these 5 simple and effective tips for preventing and combating hair loss.

1. Check out Rogaine

Scanning the shelves of your pharmacy to find a good hair growth solution can be a daunting task. Among a number of spurious medications for hair regrowth, there are two medications that are proven to be effective in stopping further hair loss. The first is minoxidil (Rogaine). Minoxidil can be purchased over-the-counter in 2% and 5% solutions. While the packaging says it is only effective for treating the common “bald spot” at the top of the head, this is because it is the only area that the makers of Rogaine tested their product. It is indeed also effective along the scalp line and the crown of the head. The medication works by stimulating the sebaceous glands underneath the hair follicle. Minoxidil may not be effective for everyone, but it is a good place to start.

2. Try Propecia

Another medication, called Propecia, works in a different way. Propecia’s active ingredient is Finasteride, a chemical which suppresses the hormone DHT (dihydrotestosterone) linked to hair loss. Propecia is another method of treating hair loss at its source, but it isn’t without drawbacks. Firstly, you cannot buy Propecia over-the-counter, you must receive a prescription for the medication. Secondly, Propecia has a number of adverse side-effects. Thirdly, because it is a hormone therapy, you must remember to be consistent with your medication regiment to regulate your hormonal balance.

3. Consider changing the foods you eat

A number of healthy foods have vitamins and nutrients that will aid healthy hair growth and development. Vitamin B12, found in beef, fish, poultry, eggs and cheese products, stimulates the growth of healthy hair. Omega fatty acids, found in fish, avocado, nuts and oils, also improve hair’s resilience and sheen. These nutrients provide a number of other health benefits, so it is recommended that you incorporate foods with high B12 and Omega fatty acid content into your diet, or consider taking a supplement as a method of improving the texture and strength of your hair.

4. Reduce stress and sleep well

It goes without saying that stress can wreak havoc on a number of biological factors and hair is no exception. Ensure that you get a proper amount of sleep each night, exercise regularly and take time for de-stressing activities. One incredibly useful way to eliminate stress is to meditate. Even 15 minutes a day of quiet meditation, where you sit in a comfortable position and release your mind of thoughts and worries, can have enormous physical and mental benefits.

5. Try a hot oil treatment

Heat oil with hair-nourishing Omega fatty acids (Canola, flaxseed, hemp or soya) and rub it into your scalp. Apply a gentle massaging technique that doesn’t tug on your hair, but allows the oil to completely soak into your scalp. The scalp and crown massage will not only relax you, but also deliver a powerful punch of nutrients to your hair follicle. Try adding an aromatic oil such as patchouli or peppermint oil to add aromatherapy to your massage.

With these tips, you can start on the path to protecting yourself from further hair loss and you may also experience moderate regrowth. As always, talk with a dermatologist about your concerns as he or she can provide a more comprehensive examination. Try out these tips to improve the strength and health of your hair.