There are many misconceptions and untruths when it comes to hair loss. In an age where there is almost too much information at hand it's hard to decide what is true and what's not.
This is also the case when it comes to myths about hair loss. You've probably seen so many articles saying that certain lifestyles, products or habits may be responsible for your hair loss. While some of them may well be true, there is also a lot of false information available which could very well lead you down the wrong path.
So when it comes to hair loss, what's true and what's false?
Myth: Only Men Experience Hair Loss
The truth: Unfortunately both men and women can suffer from hair loss. In general, no gender suffers from it more than the other. Male pattern baldness is common among men and can result in bald patches and widespread hair loss, even from an early age.
Women also suffer hair loss via several different circumstances. A poor diet, hormonal changes, stress, post partum hair loss, or genetics can cause female hair loss.
Myth: Wearing Hats Causes Hair Loss
The truth: While not a direct relation, regularly wearing a hat has no effect on hair loss and does not directly contribute to shedding. It was often rumoured that regularly wearing a hat restricts blood flow to the scalp and thus causes hair loss, which is false.
However, it must be noted that wearing certain types of hats may increase a buildup of grease on the scalp, which must be washed out as necessary to avoid any hair loss.
Myth: Frequent Hair Washing Leads to Hair Loss
The truth: Washing your hair regularly does not cause hair loss. In fact, regular hair washing can nourish the hair, assuming the right products are being used.
If you have a greasy scalp be sure to wash it to reduce the buildup in the follicles. If you notice any hairs in your hands while washing or using a scalp brush don't worry, this is normal. Most people experience a loss of 50-100 hairs per day, and these hairs are usually at the end of the hair growth cycle and are ready to be replaced.
Myth: Hair Loss is Inherited from Your Mother’s Side
The truth: While genetics play a significant role in hair loss, it’s not just your mother’s side that contributes to it. Both maternal and paternal genes can influence hair loss. If there’s a history of hair loss on either side of your family, you might be at a higher risk.
Myth: Stress and Anxiety Cause Permanent Hair Loss
The truth: Unfortunately, stress is one of the most common causes of hair loss. This can happen as part of telogen effluvium - a condition where hair follicles enter a resting phase prematurely.
However, it should be noted that this type of hair loss is usually temporary, and hair growth typically resumes if stress is relieved.
Myth: Hair Loss Only Affects Older People
The truth: Hair loss can occur at any age. While it’s more common as people age, many young adults and even teenagers can experience hair loss due to genetics, medical conditions, or other factors.
Hair loss is quite common with male pattern baldness and can be passed down from generation to generation.
Myth: Brushing Your Hair Frequently Causes Hair Loss
The truth: Regularly brushing your hair will not cause hair loss. However, you should take care when brushing and be sure not to use excessive force. It’s essential to treat your hair gently and avoid aggressive brushing. Avoid using harmful products in your hair and try to use natural hair oils for better hair health.
Brushing your hair while wet is also safe. Hair tends to be more elastic while wet and can actually help with brushing. While it may feel like hair is falling out more it is just because hair is splitting, giving the illusion that more is falling out than usual.
Myth: Smoking and Drinking Will Contribute to Hair Loss
The truth: If you smoke and drink heavily you will more than likely suffer from all round poor health. Smoking and drinking can affect physical health and can contribute to speeding up the process of aging. Smoking especially can damage the hair's sheen and make it look aged and damaged, thus resulting in excessive hair loss.
