Self-care for more hair
If a bad hair day wasn’t annoying enough, try it with a receding hairline. There’s nothing quite like looking at your brush filling up as you try to get your remaining strands under control.
And while there are many factors that contribute to hair loss, your hair styling routine could also be playing a crucial role. In this article, we’ll look at some tips to reduce hair breakage, promote healthy hair growth and keep you looking sharp.
Gentle handling
It’s always important to be gentle with your hair. Avoid vigorous brushing, especially when your hair is wet. Wet hair is more prone to breakage, and aggressive brushing can lead to stress on the strands, causing follicle damage and hair loss. A wide-toothed comb can also help to detangle your hair gently.
Choose the right styling products
The products you use can impact your hair health. When it comes to shampoos and conditioners, choose something that’s pH balanced and sulphate-free. This will help you avoid stripping your hair of natural oils. (See our recommended hair loss shampoos).
It also pays to be skeptical of products that advertise hair loss ingredients such as caffeine or saw palmetto. While these ingredients aren’t damaging, and can be beneficial when taken orally, there isn’t much evidence to suggest they’ll work when applied topically.
Harsh chemicals can also cause hair loss. Avoid any volumising and styling products that include parabens, alcohol, formaldehyde, silicones or synthetic fragrances.
Regular trims
As well as keeping you looking fresh, a regular trim promotes healthy hair. Trimming prevents split ends which, if left untreated, can travel up the hair shaft and lead to breakage. Aim for a trim every 6-8 weeks to keep your hair in optimal condition.
Loose hairstyles
Tight hairstyles such as ponytails and braids can put extra stress on your hair follicles and potentially lead to traction alopecia. Where possible, go with a looser hairstyle that doesn’t pull on your hair too much. If you love ponytails, use soft, fabric-covered hair ties and avoid securing your hair too tightly.
Heat styling precautions
Heat styling tools like flat irons and curling wands are popular, but excessive use can damage hair cuticles, leading to breakage and hair loss. If you use heat styling tools frequently, apply a heat protectant spray before styling. Additionally, use the lowest effective temperature to achieve your desired look.
Avoid excessive chemical treatments
Chemical treatments like perms, relaxers, and frequent hair coloring can weaken the hair shaft and contribute to hair loss. If you have any chemical treatments, ensure they are spaced out, and always follow the recommended aftercare procedures.
Scalp massage
If you needed an excuse, a good scalp massage stimulates blood flow to the hair follicles, promoting hair growth. If you can’t convince your partner to indulge you, just use your own fingertips to gently massage your scalp in circular motions for a few minutes each day. This simple practice can improve circulation and strengthen hair roots.
Balanced diet
For strong, healthy hair, you need the right intake of essential nutrients. Ensure you have a well-balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, including biotin, vitamin E, and omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients support hair health and can contribute to reduced hair loss. Get more detailed healthy hair diet tips here.
Don’t worry, be hairy
Worrying about your thinning strands will only make it worse as stress can contribute to hair loss. And really, there’s no need to be concerned. It really is possible to fix your hair loss with the right treatment.
Come to Ashley & Martin for a free hair loss assessment and we’ll let you know what’s causing your hair loss and provide some options on how you can fix it.
Often just taking that first step to fixing your hair can lead to positive outcomes by reducing the stress that comes with a receding hairline.
Make today your turning point and book a free hair loss consultation.