Hair loss or alopecia is a common health issue and affects both men and women. Each hair has a lifespan of 2 to 7 years, and, generally, even a healthy individual loses 50-100 strands of hair every day. A hair follicle has three active phases: growth, transition, and rest, but due to certain lifestyle, environmental, and genetic triggers, the hair follicle reaches the rest phase early. This condition is called telogen effluvium and causes untimely hair fall.

Control of hair loss
If the problem of hair loss continues and leads to the appearance of bald patches, one must consult a doctor. There are also certain steps can help in preventing or slowing down hair fall.

• Change your hairstyle : Certain hairstyles like ponytails and tight braids require you to pull your hair back tightly. This causes the loosening of bonds between the scalp and the hair, leading to hair loss.
• Avoid the use of heat on your hair : Heating hair causes dehydration of the hair follicles. For example, curling irons, hair straighteners, and dryers can cause hair damage.
• Avoid bleach : Use of certain chemicals like bleach can cause irreparable damage to the hair follicles. One must avoid dyes and the use of hydrogen peroxide for better hair health.
• Use mild shampoos : Some hair shampoos contain harsh chemicals that can remove healthy oil and fatty acids from your hair. Switch to some mild shampoo in case you are losing excess hair.
• Brush your hair : Brushing your hair with a gentle brush made up of natural fibers will promote the secretion of sebum, the natural oil that helps in maintaining good hair health.
• Light therapy : Low-level light therapy is beneficial in promoting hair repair and growth.
• Diet : Consumption of processed and sugary foods can cause oxidative stress in the body, which is linked to hair loss. One must include sufficient antioxidants in their diet to control the oxidative damage to hair. For example, eat more blueberries, strawberries, and beans.
• Use vitamin supplements : Hair loss can happen due to the deficiency of essential vitamins. One can take nutritional supplements containing the essential minerals and vitamins like zinc, iron, niacin, and Vitamin-D and B-12. It is good to use nutritional supplements only after a proper prescription and from a trusted supplier.
• Essential oils : Some oils contain useful natural ingredients that promote hair growth and prevent hair loss. They can also make your hair stronger. For example, peppermint oil, jatamansi, and ginseng are useful.
• Massage your scalp : Massaging your scalp can enhance blood circulation, leading to reduced hair fall and better hair growth.
• Avoid smoking : Smoking leads to hair loss because it damages the hair follicles and causes premature hair fall.

Hair loss or alopecia can happen due to deficiency of essential nutrients, stress, improper care of hair, and chemical exposure. One must consult an expert if it persists for long. A proper care regime and change in lifestyle and dietary habits can slow down the hair loss.