Hair Loss: Understanding it & Preventing it

Hair is often seen as a crown of glory, but what happens when you start noticing more strands in your brush or patches of open scalp? Hair loss is a common concern that affects people of all ages, genders and race but understanding its causes and knowing how to prevent it can make all the difference.

Understanding Hair Loss

Hair loss can happen for a variety of reasons, ranging from temporary to long-term conditions. Here are some of the common causes:

1. Stress and anxiety: Emotional or physical stress can send your hair follicles into a "resting" phase, leading to temporary hair loss (telogen effluvium). You may notice more shedding during particularly challenging periods in life.

2. Diet and nutritional deficiencies: Your hair needs certain vitamins and minerals, like biotin, iron, and vitamin D, to thrive. A diet lacking in these nutrients can weaken your hair, causing it to fall out or thin over time.

3. Hormonal changes: Hormones play a major role in hair growth. Pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, and conditions like PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) or thyroid imbalances can all contribute to hair loss.

4. Genetics: If one or both of your parents experienced hair loss, chances are, it’s in your genes too. Conditions like male-pattern baldness or female-pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia) are often hereditary.

5. Hair care practices: Excessive styling, tight hairstyles, and the overuse of heat tools or chemical treatments can weaken the hair shaft, causing breakage and even long-term hair loss in some cases (traction alopecia).

Preventing Hair Loss

The good news is that many causes of hair loss are preventable or manageable. Here’s how you can take action:

1. Pay attention to your scalp

Your scalp is the foundation of healthy hair. Use scalp-nourishing products like MPL Hair Oils, which contain ingredients designed to stimulate hair follicles and promote growth. Regular scalp massages can also improve blood circulation, encouraging healthier hair.

2. Eat for your hair

A balanced diet is key. Include foods rich in protein (like eggs and fish), iron (like spinach), omega-3 fatty acids (like nuts), and biotin (like avocados). Hydration is equally important—your hair thrives when your body is well-hydrated.

3. Practice gentle hair care

Be kind to your hair by minimizing heat exposure, avoiding tight hairstyles, and opting for protective styles that reduce stress on your strands. Use MPL Black Castor Oil for moisture and strengthening, especially if your hair feels dry and brittle.

4. Address underlying conditions

If you suspect that hormonal imbalances or medical conditions are causing your hair loss, consult a healthcare professional. Early intervention can make a big difference.

5. Create a hair care routine 

Consistency is key. Develop a routine that includes cleansing, conditioning, and regular treatments to keep your hair and scalp healthy. MPL’s wide range of products, from oils to treatments, can help you maintain balance and prevent breakage.

If your hair loss feels sudden, excessive, or doesn’t improve despite making changes, it might be time to consult a dermatologist or trichologist. They can diagnose the root cause and recommend targeted treatments.

Remember, the health of your hair is a reflection of your overall health. Treat your body well, and your hair will thank you.

Love, MPL Your Hair Doctor