Alopecia affects men and women. Tips and recommendations from experts to prevent hair loss.
All people lose their hair throughout life, there is a replacement that is part of the natural cycle and it is logical that this is visible. But there are times when it can become a concern, and there are signs to tell.
It is estimated that 40% of women have suffered from hair loss and that 1 in 6 women suffers from alopecia, progressive hair loss. Likewise, inquiries about this problem have increased since the pandemic began.
“It is totally to be expected that between 100 and 150 hairs fall out per day. Let’s remember that we are animals, there are cycles where the hair falls out, like when we change the season. It is important to take care of the scalp because it is part of all hair care. But if the fall is greater or we begin to see white areas of the scalp, it is necessary to consult a specialist”, expressed the dermatologist Lucas Ponti to Infobae, a member of the Argentine Society of Dermatology.
Tips and recommendations from specialists to prevent hair loss
Frequent Washing
According to doctor Michael Martin, it is necessary to perform a daily wash or every other day, to ensure the hygiene of the scalp and maintain its stable microflora, which plays a protective role.
In this line, Dr.Lucas Ponti outlined that it is important to wash it when it is dirty, neither before nor after: “It is a myth that if I wash more it falls off faster. But, in turn, excessive washing can cause it to become irritated or alter the flora and fall off”.
Avoid Chemicals And Excess Heat
Martin explained that chemical substances that include discolorations, dyes, and straightening can generate toxicity and cause hair loss because they damage its structure.
Ponti detailed: “Those who need elements of heat such as drying and ironing, it is recommended that they reduce their frequency. And in the case of those who start to observe a regular fall, it is important that they avoid it.”
Haircut
In relation to the cut, Marti assured us that it does not modify growth that, however, can “improve damaged hair”.
“Cutting does not help except in those who have very heavy hair, the length of the hair we have it genetically encoded. So if I want to be Rapunzel at 30 and my genetics say my hair has to be shoulder length, the hair is going to grow shoulder length, then it’s going to get porous and start to stand up. So, those who want it long and can’t, it’s important that they cut it,” Ponti pointed out.
Hairstyle
Marti spoke of the importance of avoiding strong styling, with a lot of pullbacks, because it can cause hair loss. Also, avoid extensions because they can generate a micro-inflammation of the follicle and lead to “scarring alopecia”, that is, the hair follicle (which makes up the root of the hair) does not grow anymore, due to the inflammation.
In this sense, Ponti highlighted the relevance do not do hairstyles with braids and buns very tight to the scalp because they can accelerate hair loss by traction. In addition, the brush must be smooth; and it is better if it is done with damp hair and with conditioner.
Do Not Apply Natural Products
According to Martin, Products such as oils, fruit extracts, and baking soda cause scalp irritation and can hasten your downfall.
Healthy Eating
Ponti emphasized the importance of having “a good diet, a good rest, and physical activity”, in addition, to good habits such as “not smoking and not drinking alcohol” because that “favors the appearance of gray hair.”
In this sense, I have assured that “junk food” as well as sugar and flour are taken as oxidation by the scalp, the skin, and the whole organism, and this is reflected in duller and weaker hair. Food, according to the specialist, should be rich in antioxidants, which are found in fruits and vegetables, and a good quantity and quality of protein.
You may like to read Eight tips for a balanced and healthy diet
