Hair loss, commonly known as Alopecia, can affect both males and females.
It can affect self-esteem and confidence, leading to emotional turmoil.
Therefore, taking preventative measures to maintain healthy hair and prevent hair loss is important.
Several factors can cause it, including hereditary, hormonal changes, underlying medical conditions, stress, and poor diet.
Some medical treatments, such as medication and hair transplants, can also effectively prevent hair loss and boost growth.
Natural remedies like adopting healthy habits and a nutritional diet can help.
This article will help with the most effective measure for hair loss prevention and treatments to help you maintain healthy and luscious locks.
Natural treatments
Several natural measures can be taken to help prevent hair loss.
Here are some of the most effective ways:
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is an essential substance that can help prevent hair loss.
Retinoids are a form of Vitamin A.
They contribute to healthy hair growth and regulate the growth cycle.
However, Vitamin A’s impact on hair depends on its amount in the body.
As both an excess and a deficiency of it can cause hair damage.
However, it is rarely a case that Vitamin A gets excess in the body.
Therefore, it’s advisable to consume foods naturally rich in Vitamin A.
These include sweet potatoes, peppers, and spinach, among others, to promote healthy hair growth.
Protein
A protein called Keratin makes up the hair follicles; hence it is important for hair growth.
In a 2017 study conducted by Emily L. Guo and Rajani Katta found, several subjects who were suffering from hair loss had nutritional deficiencies, like that of amino acids, essential building blocks of protein.
Although the topic still needs studies, consuming a protein-rich diet may aid in preventing hair loss.
Here is a list of healthy food options that contain protein:
- Fish
- Nuts
- Eggs
- Chicken
- Beans and peas
- Low-fat dairy products
- Turkey
Multivitamin
Research has shown that specific vitamins and minerals are vital for hair growth and prevent hair loss, as they contribute to cell turnover.
These include vitamins A, B, C, and D, iron, selenium, and zinc.
Daily multivitamins containing these nutrients are available at most pharmacies or grocery stores.
Alternatively, you can consult your doctor for a prescription for a multivitamin supplement that meets your specific nutritional requirements.
Biotin
Biotin is a water-soluble B vitamin necessary for cell growth and metabolism.
It is also essential for maintaining healthy hair, skin, and nails.
While there is limited research on the effectiveness of biotin supplements in treating hair loss.
Some studies have suggested that taking biotin supplements may improve hair thickness and reduce hair shedding in specific individuals.
Coconut oil
A review of studies conducted in 2003 by Aarti S Rele, R B Mohile suggests that coconut oil may prevent hair damage.
Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which assists in binding protein in hair and safeguarding it against breakage at the root and strand.
Massaging coconut oil on the scalp can enhance blood circulation and stimulate regrowth.
Olive oil
Olive oil is a beneficial hair treatment that can help prevent dryness and associated breakage.
It is known for providing deep conditioning.
Olive oil is also a vital component of the Mediterranean diet, which may help slow down genetic hair loss.
To use olive oil as a hair treatment, apply a few tablespoons directly to the hair and leave it in for approximately 30 minutes before washing it.
The oil penetrates and deeply conditions the hair, making it stronger and more resilient.
Leafy greens
Protein-rich collards, kale, and spinach promote hair development.
These vegetables include vitamins A, C, beta-carotene, folate, and iron.
Iron, essential for healthy hair, is found in six milligrams per cup of cooked spinach.
The World Health Organisation lists iron deficiency as one of the most frequent dietary deficits.
Vitamin A, needed for healthy hair, is found in leafy vegetables.
This nutrient produces sebum, which moisturizes and protects hair.
Medical treatments
Hair loss affects a person’s physical appearance and can damage mental health.
On the brighter side, various medications are available to prevent hair loss and stimulate new growth.
These medications work in different ways and are suited for different types of hair loss.
Minoxidil
Minoxidil is a clinically-proven medication that helps boost hair growth.
It is available both over the counter and on prescription.
It generally comes in two forms solution and spray. You can get more info about Rogaine Minoxidil Foam hair growth treatment .
Minoxidil allows more oxygen, blood, and nutrients to enter the hair follicles and activates potassium channels.
However, it can take months of constant usage of minoxidil for results to be visible.
Finasteride and Dutasteride
They are oral medications that also help in hair growth.
They work by blocking the conversion of Testosterone to DHT.
DHT is a hormone that can contribute to hair loss in people with a genetic predisposition to Androgenetic Alopecia.
Unlike Minoxidil, they are only available by prescription.
However, it can several months of regular use to see results.
It is noted that they can have potential side effects, such as decreased libido.
Ketoconazole
It is an antifungal medication used to treat seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff.
However, the medicine is also known to prevent hair loss.
It does so by inhibiting DHT production and reducing inflammation.
Both prescription-strength and over-the-counter formulations are available.
Corticosteroids
They help people with certain types of hair loss, particularly Alopecia Areata.
It can be injected directly into the scalp to reduce inflammation.
These injections may need to be repeated every few weeks.
However, only a licensed medical professional can help you with the injections and on the recommendation of a doctor.
Corticosteroids can have potential side effects such as skin Atrophy and Telangiectasia.
Laser therapy
Low-level laser therapy is a popular treatment that may be helpful in hair loss prevention.
It is also known as red light therapy.
It is helpful for individuals experiencing genetic hair loss or hair loss due to chemotherapy.
Laser therapy works by stimulating epidermal stem cells.
Home laser devices are readily available on the market, and regular usage may be required to achieve visible results.
Conclusion
You must have heard the saying, “prevention is better than cure”.
So why not include this approach in our daily lives?
Hair is an important aspect that defines the way we look.
Good hair is necessary for health and confidence.
Therefore, we must use these useful methods to stop hair loss and improve the appearance of our hair.
Natural remedies like coconut oil, the Mediterranean diet, and embracing a diet full of proteins, and biotins help in hair loss prevention.
There are medical treatments like Minoxidil, Finasteride and Laser therapy also available for people with excessive hair loss.
Let’s start now and have beautiful hair.
