DID you know that certain foods can play a “key role” in helping prevent hair loss?
Diet and hydration are both very important in the health, growth and the condition of our hair.
And there are a number of simple and easy foods that can help reverse hair loss.
Eva Proudman, a trichologist at Absolute Collagen lists five foods that can help many women struggling with the issue.
She revealed that foods which are rich in protein will help provide keratin – which hair is made of.
You can make sure your diet includes lean meats, fish and beans which are all high in protein.
Omega-3 fatty acids are also great to help nourish the scalp and reduce inflammation, potentially minimising hair loss.
You can find this in fish and flaxseeds.
And to make sure you are getting enough protein and omega-3 in your diet, rather than choosing an on-the-go breakfast, take the time each morning to have a well-balanced meal.
You can add a spoonful of flaxseeds to your morning cereal or even opt for a plate of scrambled eggs.
A number of women may experience hair loss during the menopause.
Hair changes is one of the many changes women can struggle with.
It has been found that 40 per cent of women experience some sort of hair loss during menopause.
Eva added: “Many women in midlife notice a change in their hair. This is because your hormones fluctuate during menopause.
“Oestrogen and progesterone can decrease; oestrogen in particular is beneficial for the hair as it helps to keep it in the ‘growing phase’ for longer.
“The relationship with our hair can be very emotional. And the impact that hair loss can have on our mental health and wellbeing is often underestimated.
“It can affect self-confidence, feelings of femininity and a person’s ability to socialise, with many avoiding social occasions due to hair problems.
“On top of this perimenopause and menopause can heighten feelings of anxiety, and when the hair develops a problem around this time of life, it intensifies these feelings.”
We told earlier how a mum who refused to leave the house because her hair loss was so bad now has the “thick and shiny” locks from her teens again after creating a three-ingredient wonder pill.
The mum of two, from Scotland, said it was a “horrific” and emotionally challenging experience.
Marie Nieuwoudt, a Group Education Manager at CLOUD NINE told Fabulous everything you need to know regarding hair loss.
What are the common causes of hair loss?
Marie explained: “There are so many reasons why someone may face hair loss.
“The number one reason is usually hormonal changes or underlying health conditions (like thyroid conditions), and stress of
course also plays a big part in changes to your hair health.
“But another very common day-to-day cause is excessive damage to your hair created by mistakes in your styling routines – and this a
big one to be aware of for people who are regularly applying heat to their hair!
“It’s important to know the right temperature for your hair type when using styling tools, as this is essential in reducing unintentional heat damage.
“I also see a lot of people facing hair loss resulting from hereditary conditions, which are passed down from generation to generation.”
What are the best hairstyles people should try to reduce their hair loss?
According to Marie: “Less is more when it comes to hair loss! It’s important to be gentle with your hair, so a low-maintenance style that limits pulling on your scalp will be your best option.
“Putting your hair up in a tight ponytail or adding hair clips can cause stress points at the roots.
“Instead, try leaving your hair down, or out.
“You’re not limited in your options, but it pays to be intentional with your hair styling. Using tools which limit damage to your hair is vital.
“Discussing your concerns with a hairdresser or hair loss specialist is also a great way to find styles that suit your specific needs, whilst still making sure you look and feel your best.”
How long does it take for hair loss to stop?
If you’re itching to know when your hair will grow back, Marie confirmed: “Hair loss is a personal journey – and it’s different for everyone, so it’s very difficult to put exact timings on this process.
“Every head of hair is unique, and so too is your hair loss experience.
“As always, you can speak to a professional hairdresser or trichologist about your specific concerns and hair changes, and they’ll be able to help you manage those expectations.
“I can’t emphasise enough how important it is to be kind to your hair. Most people treat their hair quite roughly, and this is something you definitely want to avoid when dealing with hair loss in particular.
“Make sure you’re choosing products and styling routines that you know are good for your hair, rather than causing additional damage.”
