It’s interesting, isn’t it? “It” is that, for some reason, when a man struggles with hair loss, while it may be a bit uncomfortable for him, it’s not quite like when a woman does; for her, it has the potential to be completely devastating.

And the truth is that while it may be more commercially addressed as it relates to men, the statistics reveal that as many as 50% of women will experience a significant amount of hair loss by the age of 60 due to issues like menopause, increased stress levels, genetics, and even a poor diet, shares Cleveland Clinic.

In many instances, there are some preventative measures that can be taken to prevent hair loss, though. If you would like to take some proactive steps in this area, here are five of them.

How to Maintain Gorgeous Locks: A Comprehensive Guide for Women to Prevent Hair Loss

Hair loss can be a concern for many women, but there are steps you can take to prevent it and maintain your beautiful locks. In this guide, we’ll delve into various aspects of hair care and offer expert tips to help you achieve and maintain healthy, vibrant hair.

Watch Your Diet

Maintaining a balanced diet is fundamental to healthy hair. The nutrients you consume directly impact your hair’s health and growth.

It’s odd that there are debates surrounding the topic of if what you eat affects your hair. It really should seem obvious that it does because one, hair grows out of the scalp. Two, a lot of the hair shaft is made up of keratin, which is a form of protein. So, it would make perfect sense that what you put in would have a direct influence on what you get out. Therefore, make sure that you have a diet that is filled with fruits and vegetables and of course, lots of protein. Also take special note that Vitamins A, B, and E and also Biotin have all been contributed as agents for healthy hair and hair growth.

Here’s what you need to know:

Nutrient-Rich Diet (Prep Time: Ongoing, Servings: 1)

Your hair’s growth and quality are closely linked to your diet. Ensure your meals include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and protein sources. Protein is crucial as it makes up a significant portion of your hair shaft, promoting strength and resilience.

Vital Vitamins (Cooking Time: N/A)

Vitamins A, B, and E, along with Biotin, are essential for healthy hair. Incorporate foods rich in these vitamins into your diet. Vitamin A aids in sebum production, which keeps your scalp moisturized. B vitamins strengthen hair strands, and vitamin E acts as an antioxidant. Biotin is known for its role in hair growth.

Reduce Drinking and Smoking

Unhealthy habits like excessive drinking and smoking can take a toll on your hair.

Quite frankly, it has yet to be revealed, how smoking can help us in any way and with alcohol, it’s mostly (moderately consumed) wine that receives good reports. So, it should be kind of a no-brainer that both of these habits would work against a great set of locks. Smoking has been proven to be a hindrance when it comes to healthy blood flow to the scalp. Alcohol increases the levels of estrogen in the body, which has also been directly linked to hair loss. Plus, it significantly reduces the zinc levels in the body and zinc is another vitamin that the body needs for healthy hair to grow.

Here’s why you should consider cutting back:

Say No to Smoking (Refrigeration Time: None)

Smoking hinders healthy blood flow to the scalp, which is vital for hair growth. Quitting smoking can improve circulation and benefit your hair.

Moderation is Key (History: A No-Brainer)

When it comes to alcohol, moderation is key. Excessive alcohol consumption can elevate estrogen levels, directly linked to hair loss. Additionally, it reduces zinc levels in the body, which is essential for hair health.

Watch Out for Chemicals

Chemical treatments can damage your scalp and hair.

Perms and hair dyes are two things that can do a real number on both the scalp and your hair. If you’ve had some form of a hair perm before and you’ve felt a burning sensation, that’s an indication that it’s chemically burning your scalp and that can damage your hair follicles (not good). When it comes to hair dye, because a lot of them are made with ammonia, that’s an ingredient that can severely dry out the air, which can lead to brittleness and split ends (henna is a by far better choice!). Also make sure to keep blow-drying to a minimum because not only does it dry out the hair, but if you’re not careful, it can literally fry the shaft as well when the heat setting is too high. So, make sure to dry your hair on low/medium, use a thermal dryer and cover your hair with some kind of heat protectant beforehand.

It’s crucial to be cautious:

Perms and Hair Dyes (Different Versions: Choose Wisely)

Chemical perms can cause scalp irritation and damage hair follicles. Opt for gentler alternatives. Hair dyes often contain ammonia, which can dry out your hair, leading to brittleness and split ends. Consider natural options like henna for coloring.

Mindful Blow-Drying (Expert Tips: Handle with Care)

Excessive blow-drying can strip your hair of moisture and even cause damage. To minimize the risks, use a low to medium heat setting, employ a thermal dryer, and always apply a heat protectant before styling.

De-Stress Your Life

Stress can wreak havoc on your overall health, including your hair.

Did you know that at the root of many health issues, there is internalized stress? When we’re stressed out, it’s our body’s way of letting us know that we’re overdoing “it” and we need to find some balance. When we don’t take heed, it can reflect in all parts of our body, including our hair. If you’ve suddenly noticed more strands in your brush (we lose typically about 100 per day), then take out a moment to assess if you’ve been cutting back on your exercising and missing out on the much-needed beauty rest that all of us require. Pamper yourself with a scalp massager and reduce the stress!

Here’s how to de-stress for better hair health:

Internalized Stress (Storage: None Required)

Internalized stress can manifest in various health issues, including hair loss. Prioritize exercise and ensure you’re getting enough restful sleep to maintain overall well-being. Consider treating yourself to a soothing scalp massage to relieve stress.

Consult a Professional

If you’ve tried all of these things and you still have not been able to restore your hair, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with setting up an appointment with a medical professional. Matter of fact, it’s actually recommended that you do to see if there is a more serious set of issues (such as a form of alopecia)or if your hormones levels need special attention. And while it may only be seen as a “silver lining to the hair loss cloud”, do keep in mind that there are always wigs, hair weaves and even hair restoration treatments that can be used for severe cases or during times of medical treatment.

If all else fails and your hair issues persist, it’s wise to seek professional advice:

Medical Assessment (FAQs: Seeking Help)

Consult a medical professional to rule out underlying health issues such as alopecia or hormonal imbalances. They can provide personalized solutions to address your specific concerns. Remember that wigs, hair weaves, and hair restoration treatments are viable options for severe cases or during medical treatments.

Conclusion

Maintaining your hair’s health requires a holistic approach, from your diet and lifestyle choices to your hair care routine. By following these tips and seeking professional guidance when necessary, you can enjoy a luscious mane that radiates beauty and confidence.