As a unisex product, Hair Loving is used to hearing stories about both female and male hair loss. Widely accepted as an issue only associated with men, you may be surprised to hear that many women experience this confidence crushing condition just as frequently. In a time when body positivity is high on the agenda, Hair Loving is opening the conversation of female hair loss, tackling this taboo subject head-on. Below are some common culprits of hair loss and the empowering steps you can take to combat this socially debilitating condition:
Hormone Imbalance
The life cycle of hair involves four key stages; growth, rest, fall and regenerate. A delicate balance of hormones is essential to maintain each step of the cycle. It is however extremely easy to disrupt the chain, coming off female contraception and menopause are some of the leading causes. It goes without saying that a healthy diet and lifestyle are essential to boost hair growth and prevent thinning. However investing in some great products to support hair growth and maintenance is vital, Hair Lovings very own Hydrating Oil is a great starting point.
Diet (Lack of Protein)
Vegetarians, vegans and those on extreme diets are more susceptible to not getting enough protein in their diet. Protein is the main structural component in the hair so a deficit can cause the body to reserve any protein that otherwise would have been distributed for the hair and direct it towards more vital bodily functions. In today’s health-conscious world, there are several easy and delicious ways to boost protein intake. For those of us on the go all the time, Eat Naturals range of protein-packed snack bars and Bounce protein balls are great ways to grab that quick fix of protein. A range of protein powders or protein water such as Women’s Best and Upbeat are a great way to increase your uptake of protein while keeping you hydrated.
Diet (Lack of Iron)
Continuing on the topic of diet, maintaining sufficient iron levels is of particular importance for women. Iron plays a vital role in making red blood cells, which are in turn responsible for carrying oxygen to parts of the body. In the case of a deficiency of red blood cells, the hair follicles can die due to a disruption in the supply of oxygen and consequently, the hair can fall out. Increasing iron in the diet through whole grains, green leafy vegetables, meat and pulses is the most effective way to raise iron levels; however, some women who experience heavy periods may require an additional iron supplement. Superdrugs and Holland and Barrett have a great selection of accessible and affordable iron supplements.
Over Styling From Heat or Tight Hairstyles
Straighteners, curling tongs and hairdryers; a girl’s best friend, right? Unfortunately not! Although styling your hair will make you feel and look amazing, overzealous use of heat and tight hairstyles such as ponytails, braids and cornrows can cause hair to fall out and become dry and brittle over time. Using heat protection spray and using specially made products to prevent damage and snagging of the hair can help to minimise the impact. Invisibobble traceless hair ring, Slips silk pillowcase and Hair Lovings very own Microfibre Hair Towel Wrap are hair care essentials to minimise damage.
Cancer Treatment
Unfortunately, hair loss during cancer treatment is a widely known side effect of the strong cocktail of drugs used to fight off the disease. Excellent hair care through product use, diet and lifestyle choices may help to keep any remaining hair in good condition; however, hair loss may, sadly, be inevitable in the case of cancer treatment. Practical ways of coping such as using wigs may be of benefit, helpful and informative support can be found here and here.
Pregnancy
Stretch marks, weight gain and swollen ankles are just some of the natural body changes during pregnancy, but did you know many women enjoy a new found level of lustrous and thick hair due to the high levels of estrogen hormone, which reduces the hair shedding phase? For some women, this is great news; however, for others, this benefit is short-lived and around three months postpartum as the estrogen levels drop back to normal levels prompting the hair to shed. Thankfully, although this cause of hair loss can be distressing to experience the hair will return to normal as hormones settle after birth. Speak to your GP for advice.
Stress
There has been a lot in the news about the damaging effects of stress on the body and in particular the adverse effects on hair. The growth phase in the hair cycle can be cut short by internal disturbances in response to stress, as the body goes into fight or flight mode, taking vital nutrition away from hair follicles, leading to hair falling out prematurely. There are lots of great ways to manage stress and break the cycle of hair loss, start daily meditation, indulging in some self-care and keeping active are great stress busters.
Vitamin Deficiency (Vitamin B, Zinc, Selenium, MSM)
Another diet-related cause of hair loss is a vitamin deficiency, a further reason that a nutritious, varied and healthy diet is not just necessary for your overall general health but also key to getting those gorgeous locks. A lack of vitamin B12, zinc, selenium, MSM and biotin can all cause a degree of hair loss in different ways. A multivitamin aimed at hair will ensure you are getting your daily intake of vitamins. There is a lot of choice on the market for hair vitamins; Holland and Barrett have a great selection, catering for vegetarians and vegans whilst Perfectil has a multivitamin that targets hair, nails and skin.
Medication
A vast amount of pretty standard medications can contribute towards hair loss. Antibiotics, acne medications, blood pressure tablets and antidepressants are just a few of the offenders to look out for. Thankfully hair loss caused by medication is generally temporary and self-limiting, the hair will begin to grow back a short time after stopping the medication. It is advisable to speak about your hair loss symptoms with your GP who may be able to offer an alternative medication. he body. In the case of a deficiency of red blood cells, the hair follicles can die due to a disruption in the supply of oxygen and consequently, the hair can fall out. Increasing iron in the diet through whole grains, green leafy vegetables, meat and pulses is the most effective way to raise iron levels; however, some women who experience heavy periods may require an additional iron supplement. Superdrugs and Holland and Barrett have a great selection of accessible and affordable iron supplements.
