For many men and women, hair loss can feel like an existential threat. Seeing their hairline receding or discovering a growing bald spot can be devastating. If you have noticed your hair is thinning, it’s normal to want to assign blame. Perhaps you’ve put your hair loss down to wearing hats too often, or maybe it’s that shampoo you picked up off the shelf. What we’re here to tell you is that these are simply myths.
If you are losing your hair, there’s almost certainly nothing you have done wrong to cause it. Don’t beat yourself up about it or think there were things you could or couldn’t have done to prevent it. Read on to discover some of the most common hair loss myths and why they’re exactly that – a myth.
Frequent Shampooing
Whether you’ve got long, luscious locks or you’re sporting more of a bob, shampooing your hair is essential for keeping your hair healthy and shiny. However, one of the most popular myths surrounding hair loss and what causes it is shampooing too often. Washing your hair often doesn’t actually cause hair loss. In fact, keeping your hair and scalp clean is imperative for maintaining a healthy environment for hair growth. The best method is to find a gentle shampoo and avoid excessive hair manipulation while it’s wet. This is because wet hair is more prone to damage.
Direct Sunshine
When the sun beats down, many of us love to rush outside and make the most of it. While we’re fully aware of the importance of wearing sun lotion and sunglasses to protect our skin and eyes, some people believe that direct sunlight can contribute toward hair loss. This is a myth! No sustained sun exposure will make your hair fall out. However, too much sun can cause damage to your hair and result in a loss of volume. This means the next time you’re out and about enjoying the sunshine, you may want to throw on a hat.
Wearing Hats
Speaking of hats, some people are of the belief wearing them too often can cause hair loss – this is false! You may think your scalp needs to ‘breathe’ and that wearing hats frequently can stifle that. It’s actually oxygen your hair follicles require for growth, not surrounding air. This means you can wear a hat every day if you so wish. It won’t cause your hair to thin or shed, we promise!
Only A Problem for Men
While we do associate hair loss more with men, the condition does affect both genders. Female pattern hair loss can happen and be equally distressing. Although, the causes and patterns of hair loss may differ between genders. Therefore, it’s crucial you seek proper medical advice to get an accurate diagnosis and treatment options. There are many hair loss treatment plans which are suitable for both men and women and could yield brilliant results for your hair loss.
Higher Testosterone Levels
Many people believe high testosterone levels are to blame for hair loss. However, this isn’t true at all! In fact, male pattern baldness (the most common kind of hair loss) is actually caused by levels of a growth hormone known as DHT (dihydrotestosterone). DHT binds to certain proteins in your body, which can reduce the size of hair follicles. This can result in a delay in the growth of new hair strands or thinning of the hair. To put it simply, both high and low levels of testosterone can put you at risk of hair loss.
Colouring or Styling
Lots of us like to switch up our hairstyles and use heat styling tools to get our locks looking in check. Although excessive use of harsh chemical treatments and heat styling products can cause damage to your hair and make it more prone to breakage, they don’t directly cause hair loss. Instead, hair loss happens when hair follicles stop producing new hairs or shed them prematurely. To keep your hair in tip-top condition, it’s always best to use chemical treatments and styling tools in moderation, rather than every day.
Stress
You’ll have a hard time finding someone who’s never experienced stress. Whether you’re having issues in the office, relationship troubles or something has just got your back up, let’s face it – we ALL get stressed. Although day-to-day stress isn’t typically enough to result in hair loss, it is true that major traumatic events have been associated with hair loss. This could be things like losing a loved one or enduring alife-long illness. Everyday stresses like a demanding job or kids who drive you crazy aren’t linked to hair loss.
Always Hereditary
While genetics do play a substantial part in hair loss, it isn’t the sole cause. There are numerous other factors that you need to know about. These include nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, stress, and autoimmune disorders. Certain medications can also contribute toward hair loss. Many of us believe hair loss is passed down from our mother’s side of the family too. However, it can actually be passed on by either parent. We won’t lie and say genetics cannot be blamed for hair loss. But, don’t pin this one on either of your parents, or your grandad!
Old Age
We typically link hair loss with ageing. However, it can occur at any stage in life. In some instances, people may experience hair loss in their late teens or early twenties. It’s crucial to understand that age isn’t the sole determinant of hair loss. We appreciate losing hair at such a young age can have a catastrophic effect on your confidence and self-esteem. With that said, it’s important to identify the cause and seek appropriate treatment as you may be able to promote regrowth and avoid going down the hair transplant route.
Hair Loss Is Permanent
While male pattern baldness is a genetic condition that is irreversible, hair loss can be caused by other factors which may not be permanent. This can include hormonal changes, trauma, illness, or eating disorders. Women can also suffer from postpartum hair loss. This normally rectifies itself roughly six months after giving birth. There are ways you can treat postpartum hair loss, like trying out a new haircut to make your locks appear fuller, and being especially gentle with your hair when you brush, wash, and style it.
Poor Blood Circulation
This one is a tad more complex. Yes, poor blood circulation is linked to the process of hair loss. However, circulation isn’t the cause – it’s the result. Hair needs excellent circulation in the scalp to grow. Although, as male pattern baldness starts, circulation begins declining. There are lifestyle changes you can make that can support scalp health and circulation, including performing regular exercise and watching what you eat.
As we’ve shown above, there are many myths and misconceptions that surround hair loss. Understandably, this can lead to confusion and cause anxiety for those experiencing it. Debunking such myths is imperative for helping you better understand hair loss.
If you’re worried about your hair loss and aren’t sure where to turn, it’s wise to seek professional advice. This is because early intervention is key for managing hair loss effectively and potentially promoting regrowth.
