How to Stop Thinning Hair
Trichology… So many people ‘claim’ to be a Trichologist. It’s so important you have a consultation with a ‘Qualified’ Trichologist (and make sure they mention that bit!)
But it’s not only other ‘Trichologists’ that can confuse you, it’s also the world wide web. What a time to be alive; as you can search your symptoms and hey presto you’re cured! Not quite so much… Here’s how to stop thinning hair in its tracks. I reveal my secrets to having fuller, shinier hair.
1 – Diet
It should come as no surprise that an unhealthy diet doesn’t just impact your general health but will lead to unhealthy hair too. Increasing the amount of protein in your diet can help with hair loss and actually boost hair growth. The recommended amount of protein you should eat for healthy hair is at least 45g per day and can be made up of meat, seafood, eggs, milk, nuts and pulses. If you are a vegan or vegetarian, sources of protein include beans, legumes, nuts and quinoa. A protein shake can also help to boost your intake by half to make up your 45g a day quota.
2- Supplements
Getting the right balance of nutrients in your diet is essential to having healthy hair and any nutritional deficiency will take its toll. For example, busy schedules, heavy periods or simply not eating enough protein can lead to an iron deficiency which, in turn, can result in hair loss. Diet supplements, such as Biotin, Iron, Vitamin B12 and Vitamin D, will all help to boost hair growth and promote fuller, thicker hair.
3 – Massage
Massaging the scalp stimulates the flow of blood to the hair follicles and, over time, can lead to thicker hair shafts and giving your hair a fuller look. But make sure you don’t slide your fingers through your hair without the use of an oil or condition as this could result in your actually pulling your hair out!
4 – Laser Phototherapy
Low-Level Laser Hair Therapy is one of the most effective methods of treating early-stage hair loss in both men and women. Trials have found that Laser Hair Therapy is generally most effective for individuals who are in the early stages of hair loss and thinning but it is a viable treatment at any stage in the treatment of hair loss.
This treatment is a non-chemical, painless and completely side-effect free treatment and works by emitting a gentle light onto the scalp, which is absorbed by the cells, stimulating the cell’s metabolism and protein synthesis. This stimulates the follicles on the scalp and, over time, the process will lead to promoting thicker hair shafts and giving your hair a fuller look. It has also been shown to re-activate dormant hair follicles back into a healthy growth cycle.
5 – Relax
Always good advice and the same can be said for your hair! Wearing your hair in tight hair styles, such as ponytails or buns, can have a devastating effect on your hair over time. Tight hair trends put a strain on your hair follicles and can ultimately lead to Traction Alopecia. The same is true with regular use of heavy hair extensions. If you have thin or thinning hair, try to avoid these styles and opt for a loose shape or messy bun instead.
6 – Drink Water
Water is good for controlling your weight, skin complexion and, just like your skin, will keep your scalp healthy and hydrated too. A healthy scalp means healthy hair too!
7 – Visit a Trichologist
Don’t ignore the signs or what your body is telling you. If you are worried about thinning hair or hair loss, book an appointment with a Trichologist! A Member of The Institute of Trichologists will work with you to fully understand the underlying cause of your condition and provide you with a treatment plan that gets you back to having healthier and thicker hair.
Finally, A good hair care regime is important. Using Nioxin that has been specifically developed to support hair thinning is a good regime to follow.
Benedetto Cusumano MIT
Member of The Institute of Trichologists
