Written by Diane Tuffuoh
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Believe it or not, shedding is a natural part of your hair growth cycle and is usually nothing to worry about. All hair typically has three specific stages to its life cycle. Anagen which is the growth stage, catagen – the resting phase and telogen, known as the shedding stage. It’s normal to shed between 50 – 100 strands of hair a day, which is low considering we have on average 100,000 hair strands on our head.
If you’re noticing more shedding than normal, this can be pretty distressing and there may be some other contributing factors to consider. Excessive hair shedding can be brought on by a variety of things such as illness, stress, diet, weight loss and hormone changes and it’s essential to understand the reasons behind hair shedding, in order to tackle the issue head on. However, if shedding continues for longer than 3 – 6 months, it would be advisable to see a trichologist or doctor. To help limit shedding, there are a few things that can be done.
1) A healthy diet
Your hair needs some love from within and a healthy diet is super important in supporting hair growth. Eating meals packed with nutrients like vitamins A, B, C, D, and E, as well as minerals like iron and zinc are essentials that help promote hair growth and strengthen your hair follicles, reducing the chances of excessive shedding. So, load up on leafy greens, eggs, fish, nuts, and fruits to keep your hair happy and healthy.
2) Handle your hair with care
Rough handling, excessive heat, and harsh chemicals can really take a toll on your tresses. So, skip those tight hairstyles and ditch the styling tools that crank up the heat. If you do use heat, always remember to apply a heat protectant first to minimize damage. Always make sure your hair is well detangled, use a good wide tooth comb or a detangling brush and products you know your hair loves.
3) Kick stress to the curb
Stress can mess with your hair growth cycle and make shedding worse. No one wants that, right? Take some time to de-stress and pamper yourself. Try self-care activities you enjoy, that helps you relax. Finding a hobby or doing something you love can also work wonders. And let’s not forget the importance of beauty sleep! Getting enough rest allows your body, including your hair follicles, to repair and recharge.
4) Love your scalp
A healthy scalp means healthy hair! Keep your scalp clean and free from oil and product build-up. Find a shampoo and a good hair mask that suits your hair type and give your scalp a nice massage in circular motion when you’re washing your hair. It stimulates blood circulation and promotes hair growth.
5) Seek professional help if you need to
If you’re still experiencing excessive hair shedding despite all your efforts, it’s time to call in the pros. Don’t hesitate to see a trichologist or your doctor. They’re the experts who can identify any underlying medical conditions or hormonal imbalances that might be causing your hair loss. They’ll provide you with personalised treatment options and guide you on your journey to healthier hair.
