Dealing with hair loss can severely restrict one’s ability for self-expression, sometimes leading to a reduction in confidence and overall self-esteem. Thankfully, there are options available for slowing and reversing hair loss, as our understanding of the root causes of hair loss have greatly expanded in recent years.  Employing a holistic approach which addresses a multitude of health factors including diet, exercise, and overall stress levels is essential if we aim to overcome our hair loss.

 

1. Stress is a huge factor in hair loss

Stress is one of the greatest factors that can contribute to a decline in health. This is also true in the area of hair loss. According to the Mayo Clinic, a condition called Telogen Effluvium.  With the follicles in this resting phase, new hair isn’t being grown from them. Another condition caused by extreme levels of stress is Alopecia Areata, which is when the body’s immune system begins to attack the hair follicles, eventually leading to the hair falling out. This type of hair loss is difficult to treat but reduction of stress is one thing that can help. For a good breakdown of this, this is a good article to read: How to Prevent Stress-Related Hair Loss: 10 Tips.

Support hair growth holistically with the laser cap that restores starting at the follicle

 

2. Vitamins can make or break hair regrowth

In the fight against hair loss, one vital element to look at is nutrition. B-vitamin deficiency can play a major role in the health of our hair. Biotin is one of the most important vitamins for hair restoration. Biotin deficiency can be caused by smoking, impaired liver function, as well as pregnancy. It’s also beneficial to hair thickness because it rebuilds hair shingles which may be damaged by sun-exposure, chemicals in shampoo products, or excessive blow-drying. Vitamin B5 is also helpful in supporting the adrenal glands, a part of the body which contributes to stimulating hair growth.

 

3. Follicles need to be repaired by Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

Holistic hair restoration requires a wide range of treatment methods. This laser therapy applies a low-level or low-power laser to the skin to stimulate hair growth and reduce hair loss. Clinical trials have shown it to stimulate growth of hair in mice subjected to chemotherapy-induced Alopecia as well as Alopecia Areata.

The lasers stimulate hair growth by using a light with a specific wavelength which is absorbed by the molecules of hair follicles. LLLT penetrates the scalp and stimulates epidermal stem cells which are responsible for regenerating hair follicles. This process also stimulates metabolic processes important for hair growth and provides nutrients and oxygen to hair follicles by increasing blood flow.

 

4. Exercise is always overlooked

When thinking of ways to prevent hair loss, an extended workout at the gym isn’t usually the first thing that will pop into your head. But exercise is an essential habit for maintaining mental and physical health and it can benefit hair growth. Regular workouts can also reduce the chances of certain medical conditions which can negatively affect your hair’s growth. Conveniently, exercise is also a fantastic way to reduce stress, which can contribute to the likelihood of hair loss. However, excessive physical exertion can put a strain on your body and lead to additional hair loss. As with many things in life, moderation in this arena is crucial.

 

5. Pharmaceuticals and invasive surgeries can add stress

While there have been advances in the field of hair loss, specifically with pharmaceutical and surgical treatments, these choices have some side effects. The most common pharmaceutical options available are Minoxidil (such as Rogaine) and Finasteride (such as Propecia). Minoxidil has shown results with stopping or slowing hair loss, but scalp irritation is common. Women who use the product may experience unwanted facial hair growth. Finasteride has also displayed positive results with preventing hair loss but can also reduce sex drive.

Surgeries, such as hair transplant surgery, are another option for those seeking more immediate results. But side effects can include swelling of the scalp, infections, pain, and the possibility of losing more hair after the surgery is complete. These treatments can also increase stress, which can negatively impact the results.

 

6. Hair products can compound the problem

You may have a wide assortment of hair products designed to improve the look of your hair, but their chemical ingredients can compound hair loss. If you regularly bleach your hair or use permanent dyes, you are causing damage and stress to your hair, which can increase the odds of losing your hair.

Blow dryers and flat irons can also increase the possibility of hair loss. While you may want your hair to look its best, its important to consider the long-term ramifications–an immediate improvement to your hairstyle is certainly not worth the possibility of losing it altogether.

 

7. Lack of confidence can create a vicious cycle of stress-induced hair loss

Let’s face it: hair loss can significantly reduce a person’s confidence. No longer having a lush, full head of hair can be demoralizing for a lot of people. What used to be your prized attribute can eventually become your Achilles heel. Unfortunately, a lack of confidence can lead to a vicious cycle of increased stress which can lead to hair loss speeding up. Confidence is key to facing hair loss and reversing it. For more, read How Hair Loss Can Affect Confidence in Men.

There are many elements that can contribute to a person’s hair loss, and only a holistic approach considers all of them. By taking a multi-faceted approach to this unfortunate health condition, the chances of regrowing one’s hair increase dramatically, and you’ll end up improving many other areas of your life along the way., and you’ll end up to achieving lasting results.