Science-based Home Remedies
05 / 23 / 18

Science-based Home Remedies for Thinning Hair

Thinning hair is a common problem for both men and women, but finding a solution is possible! It's completely normal to lose a few hairs every day, but if your hair is coming out in clumps, it's wise to see a specialist who can diagnose the root of the problem. Hair loss is caused by a variety of factors, so not every home remedy works for every person. However, if you're not ready to see a specialist or want to do something while you wait for your appointment, these home remedies can help. We took a science-based approach to identify the most common causes of hair loss and offer solutions for each one.

Diet

Nutritional deficiencies are one of the most common causes of hair loss. Fortunately, it's easy to get these nutrients by incorporating a few essential ingredients into your diet. Your hair is made of protein, and eggs and nuts are a great source of protein and healthy fats. Be sure to eat plenty of leafy greens, which are rich in iron. This important mineral helps facilitate hair growth, and can give you more energy if you're not getting enough. In addition, other foods like beans, carrots and rice provide essential nutrients that encourage hair growth too. 

Changing your diet isn't easy, but if your diet is causing hair loss, it's important to address changes. Talk to your doctor about vitamin deficiencies if you suspect your diet is the cause of your hair loss. A doctor can suggest supplements to help along the way, and they can rule out a more serious underlying problem or figure out if something besides your diet is causing your hair loss.

Stress

Everyone is busy these days, and long days at a high-pressure job or responsibilities that result in lack of sleep can stress out anyone. Unfortunately, chronic stress can signal your hair follicles to stop producing hair. Stress management techniques are a great first step toward managing your hair loss. Try some relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation. A short burst of vigorous exercise can also help you reduce your stress levels. Take a few minutes out of your day to devote to yourself, and you'll look and feel much better.

It's normal to experience stress after a major life event. If you've recently experienced the loss of someone close to you, you might notice some hair loss. Don't worry about your hair during this time. Your hair will grow back on its own with time. Even a positive change, like a marriage or a new baby, can affect your hair growth. If your hair seems unhealthy after a major change, it's likely that time will fix the problem.

Hormones

A hormone imbalance can trigger hair loss. For instance, if you're pregnant or just had a baby, it's normal to notice some hair loss. This problem will also fix itself with time. However, there are other hormone imbalances in both men and women that can trigger hair loss. See a doctor to make sure your thyroid is working normally and your hormones are well balanced.

Hair styling

If you're in the habit of coloring your hair, using harsh products, or working with heated tools like a blow dryer, it's wise to cut back. Ask your stylist about gentle, natural products that won't damage your hair. Opt for air drying your hair or cut back to washing it every other day instead of daily. Harsh products can irritate the scalp, reducing hair growth. In addition, heated tools can damage hair along the shaft, weakening strands of hair and making them more prone to breakage.

If you must continue using heated tools, ask about natural, organic heat protection products. Your stylist can help you find products to protect your hair from the tools you use to achieve your favorite style.

Hair loss is a complicated issue, and if it doesn't resolve with these simple home remedies, you should see a hair specialist. At LH Hair, we're always ready to help you identify the real cause of your hair loss so you can treat it correctly from the beginning. If home remedies aren't working for you, contact us so we can evaluate your hair and scalp to come up with personalized hair treatment options that fit your needs perfectly.