If you’re noticing the hair in the front of your head is thinning or falling out and you often braid your hair or wear tight ponytails or pigtails, this is probably the main source of your problem. [4] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
Using hot rollers or getting a perm is uniquely bad when it comes to hair loss since it combines high levels of heat with hair pulling. [6] X Expert Source Courtney FosterCertified Hair Loss Practitioner Expert Interview. 9 December 2019.
If you have a professional stylist putting highlights in every year or so, it’s probably not a big deal. But frequent use of hair coloring chemicals increases the chances that you accidentally do some serious damage. [8] X Expert Source Courtney FosterCertified Hair Loss Practitioner Expert Interview. 9 December 2019. Bleaching is especially harmful for your hair, since it strips the nutrients in your hair and scalp. If you do dye your hair, either skip the bleach or choose a color that doesn’t require it in the first place. [9] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
The other problem with stress and hair loss is that it’s a compounding problem. You lose hair when you’re stressed, and realizing that your hair is falling out can make you even more stressed. Emotional distress will also cause hair loss. If you’re dealing with depression or some other kind of mood disorder, getting some help should relieve the hair loss. [11] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
Sleep hygiene also plays a big role in this. Aim to go to bed and wake up at the same time, keep the temperature cool at night, and make sleep a priority!
The common culprits for hair loss when it comes to nutritional deficiencies are protein, iron, zinc, and biotin. [15] X Trustworthy Source Harvard Medical School Harvard Medical School’s Educational Site for the Public Go to source Biotin is especially popular when it comes to the supplements, but unless you’re deficient, your body won’t even be able to process the extra biotin and you won’t see any additional growth. [16] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source This may not have a huge impact if you’re already getting the vitamins and nutrients your body needs, but it’s worth giving this one a shot anyway since there are no downsides to a healthy diet. [17] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Improving your diet isn’t going to totally negate your hair loss if it’s genetic, but it certainly won’t hurt. What’s the worst that happens? You end up feeling better and more energetic? It’s a win-win no matter what the outcome is.
A glass of wine with dinner is totally fine, but if you’re polishing off a 6-pack every night, it’s going to do damage to your hair. Hair loss is one of the big side effects of long-term alcohol abuse and liver disease. [19] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source
The hair loss from smoking appears to be less dramatic than the hair loss from heavy alcohol use. However, drinking too much and smoking are both bad for you, so quitting is still going to be a smart move. [22] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
Rogaine is over-the-counter these days, but your doctor may be able to prescribe you a stronger formula if you check with them first. While it’s mainly marketed towards men, women can use Rogaine as well.
