How to stop hair fall? Why am I losing so much hair all at once? Is it normal? I can see portions of balding on my scalp! What can I eat or apply on my hair to stop hair fall immediately?
These are perhaps some of the thoughts that brought you here.
You will surely find answers to all your queries here. However, here is an important thing that you should know before you proceed.
Your worries about your hair health are surely genuine. Our hair does define the outlook of our face, which is of course the primary feature what everybody else sees. That’s why hair fall kind of goes deeper to touch your level of confidence about your perception of beauty.
However, you do need to know that your hair doesn’t define “who you are”. So, first of all stop worrying about your falling hair as it is going to make it worse (I’ll show you how).
Second, you should act on your hair loss! Educate yourself about the possible causes, remove them and adopt a diet and lifestyle that will help you to regrow healthy hair and stop all that premature hair fall.
And with this post, we will do just that! We will help you to dig deeper into the root cause of hair fall and poor hair health.
Also, we will go through Ayurvedic natural solutions on how to stop the hair fall for once and for all. Let’s get started!
Hair Loss in Ayurveda
In Ayurvedic medicine, any ailment in the body can be traced down to an imbalance in any of the three doshas. If there’s a deviation of any of these from their normal composition (Prakriti), then there’ll be a deviation from health too. To cure the condition, the dosha whose energy has gone in excess needs to be restored to its normal proportions.
In hair loss, the pitta is mainly the dosha that has gone imbalanced, but actually, all the three doshas have a part to play in this crime that is robbing you of your beautiful mane of hair.
How Dosha affect Your Hair Growth Hair Life Cycle
- The Role of Pitta: When there’s a spike in Pitta energy, since this dosha is associated with fire, there is increased heat from the inside, and this inflames the follicles, thereby weakening the roots of your hair.
- The Role of Kapha: Kapha is associated with earth, building up. If this dosha energy spikes, sebum is produced at a disproportionately high rate, and this excess sebum clogs the hair follicles.
- The Role of Vata: Vata is the air dosha. An imbalance in pitta dehydrates the scalp, and as a result, the root of the hair and the hair follicles are left exposed to the ultraviolet rays from the sun. Thus, the follicles are damaged, and the hair is caused to fall out.
Understanding Hair Growth Cycle
We need to understand first what’s happening on your head, how hair grows, and then we’ll get better perspective on what to do. Really, hair loss is as a result of these processes going on. Our Hair generally has two parts;
- The Root is the part under the skin, which dips into the hair follicle. The hair follicle is a structure through which nerves and blood vessels reach the hair. This hair follicle is very important because it supplies nutrients to the hair. If it is impeded, then the hair will not be at optimum health.
- The Shaft is the part above the skin that you can see.
Stages of Growth of Hair
Hair grows in three stages:
- Anagen: This is the stage where hair grows actively. 90% of the hair on your head is in the anagen stage. This is also known as the kapha phase, since it deals with building up. It lasts for 2-8 years.
- Catagen: At this stage, hair has stopped growing, and the hair follicles begin to shrink. This stage is the Pitta stage, as it deals with transformation. It lasts for about 2-3 weeks.
- Telogen: Telogen is the final stage. This is when hair falls out, and the follicles go into an inactive state and rest. This is the Vata phase, and the follicles rest for 2-4 months.
The remaining 10% of hair are either in the catagen or the telogen stage, so most of the time, the hair is actively growing. The primary cause of hair loss is a break or a disturbance in this hair cycle.
Understanding the Root Causes of Hair Fall
Hair fall is more than just a cosmetic concern; it’s often a reflection of our overall health and well-being. To truly combat hair fall, it’s essential to understand its root causes. Let’s delve into the common reasons behind this perplexing issue.
Hormonal Imbalances
A leading cause of hair fall in many women is hormonal imbalances, particularly during events like pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause. Fluctuations in hormone levels can disrupt the hair growth cycle, leading to increased shedding.
Nutritional Deficiencies
Lack of essential nutrients, such as iron, zinc, and proteins, can weaken hair follicles, making them more prone to breakage. A balanced diet is crucial for maintaining strong and healthy hair.
Underlying Medical Conditions
Conditions like thyroid disorders, alopecia areata, and certain autoimmune diseases can lead to significant hair loss. in addition, genetic predisposition to conditions like androgenic alopecia can result in hair thinning and loss in both men and women. It’s essential to consult a healthcare professional if you notice sudden or patchy hair loss.
Lifestyle and Life stages
Each strand of our hair has its life cycle, with phases of growth, rest, and shedding. As we age, our hair naturally thins, and the rate of hair growth slows down. Various factors can disrupt this cycle as over-styling and chemical treatments. Frequent use of heat tools, chemical dyes, and harsh treatments can weaken hair, leading to breakage and fall.
Seasonal Changes as Autumn Shedding
Research suggests that many people experience increased hair shedding during the fall months. This seasonal hair fall is believed to be a result of the hair’s life cycle – hair tends to grow more during the summer to protect the scalp and sheds more during the autumn.
The Science Behind Stress-Induced Hair Loss
Prolonged periods of intense stress can lead to conditions like telogen effluvium, where hair follicles are pushed into a resting phase, resulting in increased hair shedding. Chronic stress can also affect our body’s nutrient absorption, further exacerbating hair loss.
Mental Well-being and Hair Health
Constant overthinking and anxiety can affect our sleep patterns and hormonal balance, both of which play a pivotal role in hair health. Prioritizing mental well-being is not only essential for our minds but also for our tresses.
Important Factors for Hair Growth
Hair growth is a complex process influenced by several factors. Understanding these factors can help you maintain the health of your hair and potentially stimulate hair growth. Here are some crucial factors that play a role in hair growth.
Balanced Diet
A balanced diet rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and proteins is crucial for healthy hair growth. Nutrients like vitamin A, B-vitamins, vitamin C, vitamin D, iron, zinc, and protein contribute to the health and strength of your hair.
Scalp Health
A clean, healthy scalp is the foundation for healthy hair growth. Regular scalp massages can improve blood circulation, delivering the necessary nutrients to the hair follicles. Avoiding harsh hair care products and maintaining a clean scalp can prevent issues like dandruff and scalp infections that can hinder hair growth.
Hormonal Balance
Hormones play a significant role in the hair growth cycle. Hormonal imbalances, often caused by stress, pregnancy, or health conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can disrupt this cycle and cause hair loss.
Genetics
Genetics also play a role in hair growth. Some people naturally have faster hair growth than others due to their genetic makeup.
Stress Management
Prolonged periods of stress can disrupt the hair growth cycle, leading to hair loss. Techniques to manage stress, such as yoga, meditation, and regular exercise, can indirectly support healthy hair growth.
Adequate Hydration
Drinking enough water is important for overall health, including hair health. Hydration helps to keep the hair shaft moist and supple, preventing dryness and brittleness that can lead to breakage.
Proper Sleep
Sleep is a restorative process, and this extends to hair growth as well. Lack of sleep can disrupt the body’s natural processes, including hair growth.
By understanding and addressing these factors, you can create an optimal environment for healthy hair growth.
Ayurvedic Herbs for Hair Health
Ayurveda, an ancient medicinal system, offers a wealth of potent herbs known for their hair-strengthening and hair growth properties. Here are some of the Ayurvedic herbs that are specifically praised for their benefits for hair health.
Bhringraj (Eclipta Alba)
Often referred to as the “king of herbs” for hair care, Bhringraj is renowned for its ability to rejuvenate the scalp and hair. It works by stimulating blood circulation in the scalp, strengthening hair roots, and promoting hair growth. Regular scalp massages with Bhringraj oil can reduce hair fall, prevent greying, and impart a natural shine to your tresses.
Amla (Indian Gooseberry)
A powerhouse of vitamin C and antioxidants, Amla is one of Ayurveda’s most treasured herbs for hair care. Regular use of Amla can strengthen hair follicles, reduce hair thinning, and stimulate hair growth. Its high iron and carotene content helps to boost scalp health, curb hair fall, and improve hair texture. Amla can be used in the form of oil for a scalp massage or as a paste for a nutrient-rich hair mask.
Neem (Azadirachta Indica)
Neem, with its potent antimicrobial properties, is an excellent remedy for common scalp issues like dandruff and fungal infections that often lead to hair fall. By restoring the scalp’s pH balance and health, Neem paves the way for robust and healthy hair growth. A regular rinse with neem-infused water can keep your scalp clean, healthy, and free from hair fall-causing issues.
Brahmi (Bacopa Monnieri)
Brahmi is another jewel in the crown of Ayurvedic hair care. It nourishes the roots, boosts hair growth, and improves the thickness and overall health of the hair. Brahmi oil also has a calming effect on the mind and helps reduce stress, a common cause of hair fall.
Methi (Fenugreek)
Methi, or fenugreek, is packed with proteins and nicotinic acid that promote hair growth and rebuild hair follicles, thus reducing hair fall. Methi seeds soaked overnight, ground into a paste, and applied as a hair mask can prevent dandruff, scalp irritations, and hair loss.
Natural Remedies to Stop Hair Loss
When it comes to halting hair loss, nature offers a variety of powerful remedies that can nourish the scalp, strengthen hair follicles, and promote hair growth. Here are some effective natural remedies to combat hair loss.
Scalp Massage with Essential Oils
Massaging your scalp stimulates the hair follicles, promoting hair growth. Essential oils like rosemary, lavender, and peppermint oil are known for their hair growth-promoting properties. You can add a few drops of these essential oils to a carrier oil like jojoba or coconut oil and massage your scalp regularly.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera has long been used for treating hair loss. It soothes the scalp, conditions hair, and promotes hair growth. Apply pure aloe vera gel to your scalp and hair a few times a week, letting it sit for an hour before rinsing it off.
Onion Juice
Although the smell might be off-putting, onion juice has been shown to promote hair growth and reduce hair loss. The high sulfur content in onions can boost blood circulation to the hair follicles, stimulate hair growth, and reduce inflammation. Extract the juice of one onion and apply it to your scalp, leaving it on for at least 15 minutes before washing it off.
Fenugreek (Methi) Seeds
Fenugreek seeds are rich in folic acid, proteins, and nicotinic acid, which are known for their hair growth-promoting abilities. Soak the seeds in water overnight, grind them into a paste the next morning, and apply this to your hair. Rinse it off after about an hour for best results.
Green Tea
Green tea is rich in antioxidants, which can help boost hair growth and prevent hair loss. Soak two green tea bags in hot water, let it cool, and then apply it to your hair. Rinse your hair with this mixture after each shampoo.
Remember, while these natural remedies can help reduce hair loss and promote hair growth, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional if hair loss persists or worsens. Hair loss can sometimes be a sign of an underlying health condition that requires medical attention.
Nutritional Powerhouses: Foods That Promote Hair Growth and Reduce Hair Fall
A well-rounded diet plays a pivotal role in maintaining healthy hair. Certain foods are nutritional powerhouses, providing the key vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients essential for hair growth and health. Here’s a list of foods that can help promote hair growth and reduce hair fall.
Eggs
Eggs are a fantastic source of protein and biotin, two key nutrients that promote hair growth. A lack of protein in the diet has been linked to hair loss, and biotin is essential for producing a hair protein called keratin.
Berries
Berries are loaded with beneficial compounds and vitamins that promote hair growth. This includes vitamin C, which has strong antioxidant properties. Antioxidants can protect hair follicles against damage from harmful molecules known as free radicals.
Spinach
Spinach is a healthy green vegetable loaded with beneficial nutrients like folate, iron, and vitamins A and C, all of which promote hair growth. Vitamin A helps the skin glands produce sebum, which helps moisturize the scalp to keep hair healthy.
Fatty Fish
Fatty fish like salmon, herring, and mackerel are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been linked to improved hair growth and density. They’re also a great source of protein, selenium, vitamin D3, and B vitamins, nutrients that can help promote strong and healthy hair.
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a great source of beta-carotene. The body converts this compound into vitamin A, which is linked to good hair health.
Avocados
Avocados are rich in vitamin E, which may promote hair growth. Additionally, they are a great source of essential fatty acids. These fats cannot be produced by the body, but they are essential for hair growth.
Nuts
Nuts are packed with nutrients like vitamin E, B vitamins, zinc, and essential fatty acids, all of which promote hair growth and are linked to many other health benefits.
The richness of vitamins and minerals and the antioxidant properties of avocado will rapidly restore your hair, and regulate the production of sebum in the hair. The vanilla will give your hair a heavenly fragrance. You will certainly not miss out of the fragrance and antioxidant properties of vitamin c too.
Head Massage for Hair Regrowth
A head massage can be a powerful tool for promoting hair regrowth. It works by stimulating the scalp and improving blood flow to the hair follicles, which in turn can enhance the strength of the hair roots and encourage growth. Here’s how to incorporate a head massage into your hair care routine for optimal results:
- Choose the Right Oil: Oils like coconut, almond, olive, or specialized hair growth oils like rosemary or castor oil can nourish the scalp and hair while facilitating the massage. Warm the oil slightly for added relaxation and increased scalp absorption.
- Technique Matters: Using your fingertips, apply gentle pressure and make small circular motions. Start at the front of your scalp and work your way towards the back. Don’t forget the sides and back of your head.
- Time It Right: A 5-10 minute massage daily, or at least a few times a week, can be beneficial. It’s also a great way to relax and relieve stress.
- Combine with a Healthy Lifestyle: A head massage alone may not be enough to stimulate hair growth. Combining it with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and proper hydration can contribute to overall hair health and potentially enhance hair growth.
- Be Patient: Hair growth takes time, so don’t expect instant results. Consistency is key when it comes to seeing the benefits of a head massage for hair regrowth.
Conclusion
Dealing with hair loss can often be a frustrating and emotionally draining journey. The quest to find a solution that works for you might seem endless, filled with trials, errors, and sometimes, disappointment. It’s important to remember that you’re not alone, and it’s completely understandable to yearn for thicker, healthier hair.
Ayurveda, with its rich repertoire of natural remedies and holistic approach, offers effective solutions to hair fall. At Medhya Herbals, we are committed to helping you find relief from your hair concerns. Our Ayurvedic treatments focus on addressing the root cause of hair loss, providing a sustainable, long-term solution rather than a temporary fix.
We invite you to schedule a consultation with our experienced Ayurvedic doctors. They can help you understand the underlying causes of your hair fall and provide a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Remember, every strand of hair tells a story, and we’re here to ensure your story is one of strength, resilience, and radiant health.
FAQ
What is the fastest way to get thicker hair?
The fastest way to get thicker hair involves a combination of proper nutrition, effective hair care routines, and a healthy lifestyle. Consuming a protein-rich diet filled with vital vitamins and minerals strengthens hair follicles and promotes hair growth. Incorporating hair-healthy foods like eggs, berries, spinach, fatty fish, and nuts can make a significant difference. Regular scalp massages with essential oils like rosemary or castor oil can stimulate blood circulation and enhance hair thickness. Additionally, using gentle, sulfate-free hair products and minimizing heat styling can prevent hair damage and breakage. Finally, managing stress and getting adequate sleep are crucial, as these factors can significantly impact hair health and thickness.
I experience Hair Loss, why won’t my hair stop falling out?
Well, several factors could contribute to hair loss. First, note that if you lose only about 50 to 100 strands of hair in a day, then that is completely normal, and you have nothing to worry about. However, if you suddenly notice your hair falling out in huge clumps, then you must immediately take action, because it is critical that early diagnoses and treatment is done to give your hair a chance of survival. Some of the reasons are normal, and are no cause for alarm, but some others call for alarm. Hair loss can be attributed to a myriad of reasons ranging from genetic predispositions and hormonal imbalances to nutritional deficiencies and external factors like stress, over-styling, or underlying medical conditions. Consulting a healthcare or hair care professional can help pinpoint the specific reasons behind your hair loss and guide you towards effective treatments and solutions.
Can I wash my hair with just water?
While water can help rinse away dirt, it might not be sufficient to remove all the natural oils, product buildup, or environmental pollutants from the hair. However, for those aiming for a minimalist approach, water-only washing can help maintain the natural oil balance of the scalp.
How often should you wash your hair for hair growth?
The ideal frequency for hair washing varies from person to person, depending on their hair type, scalp condition, and lifestyle. Overwashing can strip the scalp of its natural oils, leading to dryness and potential hair breakage. On the other hand, infrequent washing can lead to product buildup and an unhealthy scalp environment. It’s crucial to strike a balance and understand what works best for your unique hair needs.
Can thin hair become thick again?
Yes, thin hair can become thick again, but it often requires addressing the root cause of hair thinning. Hair thinning can be due to numerous factors, including nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, stress, and using harsh hair care products. By correcting these issues, you can stimulate hair growth and improve hair thickness. For instance, a diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals can nourish hair follicles and promote hair growth. Regular scalp massages can improve blood circulation to the scalp, encouraging hair growth. Using gentle, sulfate-free hair products can help maintain the health of your hair and scalp. Additionally, managing stress and ensuring adequate sleep are important for overall health and hair well-being. It’s always recommended to consult a healthcare professional to identify the specific cause of hair thinning and receive personalized treatment.
References
- MANAGEMENT OF KHALITYA (HAIR FALL) BY AYURVEDIC FORMULATIONS -A REVIEW
- Concept of Hair Problems and its Treatment in Ayurveda
