Hair loss—it’s a natural phenomenon that happens to our bodies, just like shedding cells. Typically, we don’t even notice how much hair we lose and grow. Sometimes, however, more significant hair loss can take place. There are two major kinds of hair loss: Genetic and reactive. While genetic hair loss is exactly what it sounds like, reactive hair loss describes hair loss related to specific triggers.
Here are six types of reactive hair loss you may not know about and how to correct them and prevent hair loss from happening altogether:
1. Post-Partum Hair Loss
Post-partum hair loss is an experience many women can relate. After childbirth, when hormones like estrogen and progesterone begin to drop, it is common to experience hair loss. Not to worry, though—after the fall-out stage, you will typically see complete regrowth up to a year after childbirth. During that period, it’s best to keep taking care of your hair with nourishing products.
2. Diet Deficiency
Certain deficiencies in your diet can cause hair loss. While there are several culprits, two of the most common are an iron deficiency and a vitamin B-12 deficiency. While one can take iron and B-12 supplements, they can also be found in many foods. One of the easiest ways you can take care of your hair is by eating a balanced diet. Incorporate plenty of dark greens, nutrient-rich fruits like berries, and good proteins into your routine and avoiding excess dairy, which has been linked to hair loss.
3. Hormonal Imbalance
Our hormones are a significant factor when it comes to hair growth. Just like with post-partum hair loss, estrogen is responsible for hair growth. However, a lack of this and an increase in hormones like androgens can cause hair loss. For balancing your hormones, it is best to consult a doctor as this could be related to certain endocrine disorders and, of course, keep taking care of your hair in the meantime.
4. Brushing Your Hair While Wet
Yes, brushing your hair while wet can cause hair loss! While brushing your hair when dry is optimal as it results in less hair loss overall, that just isn’t an option for many hair types. If you’re someone with curlier hair, the best way to protect your hair from fall-out while brushing is to brush it in the shower while conditioning with a wide-tooth comb or wet brush.
5. Stress
Stress can have many adverse effects on our bodies, and one of those effects is hair loss. Prolonged, severe stress can abruptly force large numbers of hair follicles into their resting phase, which can cause significant hair loss. This is temporary, and typically, your hair will grow back. It’s important, however, to try and manage your stress. Mindfulness and meditation have not only been linked to lowering overall stress levels, but the improved blood circulation to the head that meditation provides has been linked to hair growth. By practicing mindfulness and self-care each day, you can keep yourself and your hair healthy.
6. Too-Tight Hairstyles Too Often
The myths are once again confirmed: Wearing your hair in too-tight hairstyles can lead to hair loss or traction alopecia. You can still wear your hair in tight up-dos from time to time, but you should avoid doing it every day and try to keep your hair loose right around your hairline. For women who wear protective hairstyles, remember to take breaks in between to keep hair healthy and strong.
Tips For Preventing Hair Loss
Along with eating a balanced diet and meditating (both of which you should practice for overall hair health even if you aren’t experiencing stress- or diet deficiency-induced hair loss!), other hair care methods can promote growth. One of the biggest mistakes when it comes to hair loss is not stimulating the hair follicles, which are responsible for growth. When washing your hair, be sure to cleanse the follicle by massaging your shampoo into your scalp.
In conjunction with adequately cleansing your hair, you might try working essential oils into your weekly hair care routine to stimulate re-growth! Peppermint and eucalyptus oil a perfect when it comes to hair health. Two to three times a week, apply these oils to a warm washcloth, massage them into the scalp and leave in for a half-hour to let the essential oils work their magic.
References:
Hair Loss Sources
https://www.realsimple.com/beauty-fashion/hair/hair-care/hair-loss-causes-in-women
https://www.cosmopolitan.com/uk/beauty-hair/advice/a48958/hair-loss-reasons/