6 Myths and Truths about Hair Loss in Modern Days

Is my stress causing hair loss? Wearing a hat leads to hair fall? Hair loss occurs due to many reasons, such as family history, pregnancy, childbirth, taking medications for cancer, depression, heart problems, or arthritis, hairstyles and treatments, radiation therapy, and trauma. There are many hair loss myths, and knowing the truth about them would help people get clarity and decide what to do and what to avoid. Let’s look into six common myths about hair fall and health care tips. 
 

Six Common Hair Loss Myths Debunked
 

Myth 1: Wearing A Cap Will Make You Bald

People experiencing hair fall tend to wear caps often, but wearing them does not necessarily lead to baldness. Wearing them very tight may decrease the blood flow to the follicles and cause hair fall. It is usually temporary, but it may progress to permanent hair loss over time. Wearing a tight hat can also pull the hair and may cause hair loss. Prefer loose-fitting hats to prevent hair loss. 

Myth 2: Stress Leads To Hair Loss

You probably heard that stress leads to hair fall. The day-to-day stress factors such as parenting, busy work schedule, or running late won’t cause hair loss. Even if there is a hair fall, it is almost temporary. But, excessive emotional or physical stress associated with illness, injury, or surgery can cause hair loss.

Myth 3: Hair Loss Comes From The Mother’s Side Of Your Family

It is one of the common myths about hair fall. Genetics plays a bigger role in hair loss. When genetics cause hair loss, it is commonly known as male or female pattern baldness. Baldness genes may skip generations and are entirely random in terms of who they will affect. For example, your twin brother may have hair loss, and you will not have it. 

Myth 4: If You Cut Your Hair Often, It Promotes Speedy Hair Growth

Have you heard that regular trimming promotes thick and fast hair growth? Cutting hair definitely keeps you away from split ends and prevents getting shorter from breaking. But, cutting the hair does not stimulate hair growth or favor thick hair growth.

Myth 5: All Hair Loss Is Permanent 

It is one of the popular hair loss myths. Hair loss can be temporary or permanent, and hair losses that are caused by factors other than genetics are usually not permanent. If the cause of hair fall damages the hair follicle, hair cannot grow from the damaged follicle, and having many numbers of damaged hair follicles creates permanent bald spots.  

Myth 6: Brush Hundred Strokes A Day For A Healthier Hair

Some people say brushing hair many times may add shine and stimulate hair growth. But, brushing continuously may cause friction on hair, damage the cuticle and result in frizzy hair. American Academy of Dermatology Association states that hair never needs hundred brush strokes per day, and it’s a myth. Brush and comb the hair only to detangle and style it. Gently comb your hair using a wide-toothed comb. 
 

Hair Care Tips To Follow

• How often anyone should wash their hair depends on how oily it is. Frequently wash if you have oily hair.
• Use hair conditioner after shampooing unless you use a 2-in-1 shampoo that cleans as well as conditions hair.
• Wear a scarf around the hair, and use an umbrella or a wide-brimmed hat to protect your hair from sun damage. If you have fine or light-colored hair, your hair is more prone to damage from the sun.
• Avoid rubbing the hair with a towel to dry it. Instead, wrap the hair in your towel to absorb the water.
• Wear a swim cap if you swim, and rinse the pool water out of your hair with clear water.
• Know your hair type and choose the hair care products suitable for your hair type.
• Poor nutrition is a risk factor for hair loss. Have nutrient-rich foods. Include spinach, eggs, green leafy vegetables, fatty fish, avocados, and berries in your diet, as they contain nutrients that promote hair health.
   

When To Visit A Physician?

When you experience sudden or patchy hair loss, experiencing hair fall more than usual when washing or combing, or persistent hair loss, talk with your health care professional. The sooner you start treatment for hair loss, the more effective it will be.