Suffering from hair loss? Here are common questions answered for you

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Losing up to 50-100 strands of hair a day is normal but anything more is a cause for concern. Harsh chemicals in shampoos and other haircare products do more damage than repair your hair hence don't forget to oil your hair once a week. Lack of enough proteins, iron and other dietary supplements in the human body can cause hair loss. The inadequacy of such nutrients makes our hair thirsty and deprived of their desired nourishment which eventually makes them fall.

Dr. Viral Desai, celebrity cosmetic surgeon, DHI India, and CPLSS answers most-asked questions about hair loss.

Why is hair fall a cause for concern?
In a recent study conducted by the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS), hair loss was voted as the most disturbing physical attribute, ahead of obesity, bad complexion, and crooked teeth. The same study concluded that 62% of participants agreed that that hair is important for career growth. These are only a few of the popular perceptions that people have about hair; these underline the importance of hair in the society today. Hair fall is, therefore, a cause of concern for most.

What are the general causes of hair fall?
Genetic baldness is by far the largest cause of hair fall. In addition, the rate of hair loss is aggravated by lack of proper nutrition, excessive use of cosmetic hair products, irregular lifestyle, unhealthy environment, etc.

How is it affected by environment, hair products or tools, hormones, diet etc?
The rate and pattern of hair loss are determined by the genetic make-up of an individual. This factor is largely unmanageable. Fortunately, the other factors are more within your control. As with the other tissues of the body, hair too needs regular nourishment and hygienic upkeep.

How to tackle hair fall problem…some general suggestions?
A regular balanced diet, judicious use of hair care products and maintaining a clean scalp should slow down the rate of hair loss. Practicing stress-free lifestyle should also help.

What are the different types of hair fall?
Hair life-cycle comprises the growth phase (anagen), the cessation phase (catagen) and the rest phase (telogen). Every day, we tend to lose about 50-100 hairs - a result of these hair advancing into the telogen phase. This is normal and should not be a cause of concern. However, hair fall which is more severe than normal may indicate an onset of alopecia - the condition in which you lose more hair than your body could replace.

What kind of a hair routine - shampooing, conditioning - will help tackle the problem?
Basically, healthy hair is a reflection of a healthy body. Keeping a clean scalp, not over-indulging in hair care products and maintaining

Name a few good shampoos and conditioners.
A shampoo with balanced PH is generally recommended. Do note that mere use of any product without a corresponding regulation of the other 'controllable' factors may not be beneficial at all. Hair care is a holistic process.

What are the home remedies that benefit? List a few home care remedies.
Caution should be exercised when considering home care remedies. For example, contrary to popular belief, it is not advisable to use hair oil; hair oil could result in the stickiness of the scalp, retaining dust and grime, which could contribute to hair fall. As a general rule, a clean scalp and proper nutrition would be helpful. You may also need added nutrition, for which you should consult your doctor.

What measures can be taken on an individual level to prevent hair fall?
A regular schedule which includes exercise and nutrition is recommended. Avoid procedures such as blow-drying and hair re-bonding. Also, products such as hair-dyes and colours may contain chemicals which may damage the hair structure. Also, speak with your doctor about your hair fall for diagnosis and treatment.

How to deal with aggravated hair fall…does it call for consulting specialist doctors?
Yes. In cases of aggravated hair fall, a visit to your dermatologist is in order. It may be possible to arrest hair fall in early stages of loss. Also, hair fall could be a symptom of an underlying greater malaise. It is recommended you discuss your hair loss problem with a dermatologist or plastic surgeon without delay.

Also Read: Anushka Sharma: Hair fall was once the worst nightmare

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