HAIR LOSS CAUSES TIPS AND PREVENTION
HAIR LOSS IN WOMEN
Hair loss can have a dramatic effect on a woman's self-esteem and social life. While losing 50 to 150 strands of hair a day is entirely normal, female hair loss or thinning occurs when these shed hairs are replaced by shorter, thinner strands. This process is difficult to notice initially, but becomes apparent over time.
Female hair loss is multi-factorial . For many African American women, a very common cause is trauma to the scalp caused by styling techniques that constantly pull the hair.
Types of Hair Loss
Alopecia Areata
An inflammatory condition that causes hair to fall out in clumps or patches. It is important to seek a diagnosis from a doctor to rule out underlying medical issues .
Traction (Traumatic) Alopecia
Often caused by hairstyles and treatments that place tension on the follicles. Triggers include weaves, braids, tight ponytails, rollers, chemical relaxers, hot combs, flat irons, and excessive hair grease.
Temporary Hair Shedding (Telogen Effluvium)A disruption to the natural hair growth cycle that often follows a significant physical or emotional event . Triggers include childbirth, surgery, intense stress, and certain medications.
Contributing Factors
In addition to styling and stress, hair thinning can be triggered by other factors:
Environmental pollutants
Iron-deficiency anemia
Poor nutrition, particularly a lack of essential vitamins and minerals like Vitamin B12 Rapid weight loss or crash dieting.
Maintaining Healthy HairA healthy head of hair is a strong indicator of your inner health, reflecting both your eating habits and overall well-being . Fortunately, there are many treatments, including vitamins and topical solutions, available to stop or manage hair loss.
HAIR LOSS AFTER PREGNANCY
Postpartum hair loss is a completely normal, temporary condition known as postpartum telogen effluvium. While it can also affect skin and nails, it primarily occurs when dropping estrogen levels after childbirth cause dormant hair follicles to prematurely enter the resting phase, leading to excessive shedding .
Postpartum hair loss, affects the vast majority of women after childbirth . During pregnancy, elevated estrogen and hormone levels prolong the hair's growth phase, which prevents the normal daily shedding of hair and often leads to thicker, fuller locks.
Why the Shedding Occurs
Once pregnancy is over, your estrogen and hormone levels drop sharply. This sudden shift forces your hair follicles into the resting stage. Gradually, all the hair that should have fallen out during your pregnancy begins to shed simultaneously
It is perfectly normal to lose 50 to 100 strands of hair per day. However, during postpartum shedding, you may experience much heavier loss. This condition is temporary and typically lasts for 6 to 8 months, with most women regaining their pre-pregnancy hair fullness by their baby's first birthday
While shedding is a natural biological response, hair loss during and after pregnancy can sometimes be exacerbated by vitamin or mineral deficiencies, such as low iron or zinc. To support healthy hair recovery, new mothers should;
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals .
- Continue taking postnatal or prenatal vitamins, while breastfeeding.
- Handle hair gently by using mild shampoos and avoiding tight hairstyles or excessive heat styling
How to prevent Hair loss
To stop and prevent hair loss, focus on gentle hair care and proper nutrition. Maintain a balanced diet with essential nutrients, handle your hair gently to avoid breakage, and minimize harsh chemical treatments
Here are the best practices to maintain scalp and hair health:
1. Nourish with Natural Oils
Applying natural oils—such as coconut, almond, olive, avocado, and vitamin E—helps moisturize the hair shaft and prevents breakage
2. Support Hair Growth Internally
Taking targeted vitamins and dietary supplements can support hair strength and promote growth .
3. Protect Relaxed or Processed Hair
If you get chemical hair relaxers or perms, waiting at least 8 to 10 weeks between touch-ups is mandatory to prevent severe over-processing
TRY THE BEST HAIR REGROWTH PRODUCTS
PHYTOFOLLIC HAIR GROWTH SYSTEM
- Thinning & Balding: Formulated to revitalize dormant follicles and counteract hereditary or stress-induced hair loss .
- Damaged Edges: Helps reconstruct weak hairlines and receding edges .
- Stunted Growth: Designed to push past "growth plateaus" by stimulating roots and prolonging the hair growth cycle.