Hair Loss and the Myths Around it

Hair loss or thinning of hair is a problem faced by all men and women. Medically called Alopecia, it may happen as an outcome of heredity, stress, hormonal changes, or medical conditions. And even till today, specialists and scientists are finding solutions to this problem.

We hear many quick sure shot solutions and techniques for hair regrowth. The dilemma which stands is: are these solutions fruitful? In the hope of regaining lost hair, we all at some point are guilty of practising these quick hacks and methods. 

For instance, castor oil is considered a boom for hair regrowth. The reality however is somewhat different. Castor oil makes your hair strands look thicker which gives an appearance of voluminous hair. It doesn’t stimulate hair growth in any way. It works on your existing hair; that too only when used correctly.

Castor oil is just one example, we all have heard of so many solutions from our kitchen be it curd, egg, banana, etc. The underlying problem is that a lot of research needs to be done by an individual before using these solutions. One needs to understand their hair problem, texture, and what product will complement their hair type. Based on this, an informed decision should be made. 

A lot of women get worried when they see hair stuck on their hair ties. The truth is that it is actually not that of concern. On average a person can lose 50-100 hair in a day and it is a normal amount. This is because the new hair grows at the same time.

Another belief is that getting monthly trims promotes hair growth. What people fail to notice is that hair grows from roots and not lengths. Getting trims frequently is only going to make your hair shorter. One should wait at least 3-4 months before going to the next trimming sessions.

These are just a few pieces of misinformation that people fall prey to. Let’s have a look at a few other common hair loss myths that you should be aware of. 

10 Hair Loss Myths Busted 

1.   Change of Environment 
Many people blame environmental changes for their hair loss. This notion is not backed by science. While environmental changes such as an increase in humidity can make your hair oily, it has nothing to do with hair loss or breakage. Using shampoos and conditioners catering to specific needs is the key to curb dryness or oiliness.

2. Hard Water 

At some point, each of us has believed that hard water causes our hair to fall but it is simply not true. Hard water does not even threaten our health. The only time hard water can bother us is through its bitter taste and nothing else! There is only the water’s taste that differs. Hair does not fall if the water tastes bitter. The texture may change but there is no scientific proof that shows hard water causes shedding of hair. 

3. Switching Hair Products 

Many people believe that switching hair products such as shampoos, conditioners, hair masks, or oils causes hair fall. This comes from the notion that the hair gets ‘habitual’ to certain products. Yes, there can be certain products which do not suit your hair or are simply bad products in general but switching products does not cause hair loss. Making a change in products frequently is rather suggested because each product may serve different treatments. You need to understand what kind of treatment your hair requires. Are your hair feeling too dry? Pick a moisturizing shampoo or mask. Are your hair feeling too oily? Pick a shampoo or mask with strong cleansing actions.  

4. Dandruff Increases Hair Loss

This is another common notion that seems quite logical but isn’t true. Dandruff can make your scalp flaky but it does not cause hair loss. The growth of new hair may be slowed down because the cuticle is not able to protect the hair follicles well. You should be gentle to your scalp. If you have dandruff and an itchy scalp you should not scratch it vigorously because it will lead to hair breakage. The least you can do is gently massage the itchy area with therapeutic oils and keep the scalp as clean as possible with the help of a dermal-approved anti-dandruff shampoo.

5. Intoxication Does not Cause Hair to Fall
This is completely false. If you smoke quite often and frequently drink alcohol, it will cause hair fall. If you are already suffering from hair loss, these intoxications will further speed up the hair loss process. A healthy lifestyle is extremely important to prevent or stop hair from falling. 

6. Using Good, Expensive Products is Sufficient

A majority of people only focus on buying hair care products and they believe that it stops the hair loss problem. It is crucial to keep a tab on your eating habits as well. If you’re only eating junk foods and not consuming vitamins and minerals, no product will work. Hair care products and your nutrition intake go hand in hand. Consumption of vitamins, iron, zinc, and protein are essential for healthy, happy hair.

7. Oiling Promoted Hair Growth

Since childhood, our moms and grannies have never stopped boasting the infinite benefits of the oil. While some oils have certain healing properties, others can clog your scalp and cause hair loss instead of preventing it. Oils such as coconut are widely used as a hair treatment but coconut oil is comedogenic, which means it can clog pores. So, make sure you consult with your dermatologist before using oil as a hair treatment. 

8. Combing Hair Multiple Times in a Day Leads to Hair Growth 

This statement can not be more inaccurate and on top of that it will lead to more hair loss. Combing hair 2-3 times a day as required is completely fine and it boosts enough blood circulation. However, if you’ll keep combing your hair multiple times for a good 10-20 times (as the myth suggests) or more will weaken your roots and you will lose more hair. 

9. Using a Blow Dryer Causes Hair Fall
It is said that drying your hair naturally rather than using a blow dryer prevents hair loss. Well. it’s not absolutely true. Yes, too much heat will damage your hair but if you’ll set your hairdryer to the lowest heat setting it will not damage your hair or cause hair fall. Research has shown that exposing hair to water for too long can be bad as hair are weakest when wet and can break easily.

10. Wearing a Hat or Helmet Causes Hair Fall 

A lot of people believe that wearing a hat or helmet will harm their hair. Whereas, wearing a hat or helmet may protect your hair roots from getting dirty. However, one should take care that whatever they're wearing on their head should be clean and free from grime or dirt. 

It is always a good idea to fact check a tip, especially a skin or hair care tip before you try it. You can never be too cautious about your body and making sure everything you do or apply to your skin or hair is safe, should be your topmost priority.