Hair loss is a common concern that affects both men and women. Many people believe in various myths and misconceptions regarding hair loss, from the belief that wearing hats too often can cause hair to fall, to the idea that only men experience hair loss. In this blog post, we will debunk some of the most common myths and provide you with accurate information to help you understand the causes of hair loss and what you can do about it.
Wearing Hats or scarfs too often can cause hair to fall
Wearing a hat does not cause hair loss. Hair loss is typically caused by genetics, hormonal changes, medical conditions, or other factors that have nothing to do with wearing a hat.
Hair Loss Only Happens with age
Hair loss is associated with men in their 40s and older. However, hair loss can happen at any age. 25% of bald men start losing hair before the age of 21. Some even start losing hair in their teens.
According to a study by the journal Dermatologic Surgery, about 16% of men between the ages of 18-29 have moderate to excessive hair loss.
In other words, no one is too young to start losing hair. If you have a genetic tendency to hair loss, you might experience male or female pattern hair loss way before you expected to.
However, if hair loss is not always a sign of a health problem, it is more likely to be in your genes, so you do not have to always worry about your health if you are experiencing hair loss.
If you notice early hair loss it is very important to start treating your hair as soon as possible early intervention can stop excessive hair loss.
Bald Men Have More Testosterone
While there is a link between androgen (male sex hormones) and hair loss, the idea that bald men have more testosterone is a myth.
Your body converts testosterone into DHI.
While DHT is important during childhood and puberty. During adulthood, it can bind to receptors on your scalp. If you are genetically prone to male pattern baldness this can damage your hair follicles. Hair loss has been seen in high and low testosterone males.
Wearing hats for long periods of times Harms Hair Follicles
People claim that wearing a hat can harm your hair follicles and increases the speed of hair loss.
While wearing a very tight hat might theoretically affect the blood flow to your hair follicles. There is no scientific evidence to support this theory. Wearing a hat can protect your hair and skin from the sun and it has many other benefits.
Stress is Causing your hair loss
This is kind of true but many people have so many misconceptions about this topic.
Most men’s hair loss is genetic and caused by male pattern baldness.
Stress does not cause male pattern hair loss however high-stress levels can lead to temporary hair loss called telogen effluvium. This type of hair loss is also linked to other causes like hormonal imbalances, surgery, some medication, and some chronic illness.
And unlike male pattern hair loss, it causes general thinning rather than a receding hairline.
Telogen effluvium is reversible and can be treated when you treat the underlying condition that causes hair loss.
This can be medications, stress relief, lifestyle changes, and supplements.
Too much washing can cause hair loss
If you have been researching hair loss you might have come across the idea that hair too much hair washing causes hair loss.
While washing your hair too much can rid your hair of sebum ( a natural oil produced by your skin) and make your hair too dry. There is no evidence that washing your hair too much affects DHT levels or leads to male pattern baldness.
Actually the opposite might be true, washing your hair could help protect your hair from DHT-related hair damage.
So how often should you wash your hair? According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, there is no right amount of time everyone should wait in between washes.
Instead, you should wash your hair according to the amount of oil produces by the skin of your scalp. If you do not have oily hair you might need to wash your hair every few days.
Shampoo causes hair loss
Sorry to disappoint you, but shampooing does not make hair fall out. Happy hair is clean hair. When sudsing up, it’s usual (and even beneficial) to lose a few hairs.
Using so many products on your scalp causes baldness
Hair products are not linked with male pattern hair loss.
It is important to understand that styling products, when applied aggressively, may cause you to shed hair due to the tension placed on your hair.
This form of hair loss is called traction alopecia
Genetic Hair loss is passed to you from your mother
You might have heard that hair loss is caused by genetics passed down from your mother’s side of the family.
This has some truth to it, hair loss genetics are inherited from both your parents. In fact, it is still unknown which genes are responsible for hair loss it is known that the AR gene is associated with male pattern baldness.
Everyone goes bald by 50
There is no specific age for male pattern baldness. Once hair starts to fall it does not stop on its own but it starts differently in everyone. About 66% of men will experience baldness by the age of 35.
Direct sunlight is bad for the hair
SPF is not a friend to your skin’s friend, but it does not cause your hair to fall.
While excessive exposure to sunlight can damage hair by causing dryness, brittleness, and color fading, it does not directly cause hair loss.
In fact, sunlight can have some beneficial effects on the hair and scalp. Sun exposure stimulates the production of vitamin D, which is essential for healthy hair growth. Additionally, sunlight can help to improve scalp circulation and relieve certain scalp conditions such as psoriasis and dandruff.
To protect your hair from sun damage, it is recommended to wear a hat or scarf when spending extended periods in direct sunlight. Additionally, using a leave-in conditioner or hair oil with SPF can provide extra protection from UV rays.
Cutting your hair frequently can make it grow faster.
Hair growth is determined by genetics and other factors, not by how often you cut it. While cutting your hair regularly can help prevent split ends and breakage, it won’t make your hair grow faster.
Only men experience hair loss.
Hair loss can affect both men and women. In fact, women make up around 40% of hair loss sufferers.
Hair loss is always permanent.
Truth: While some types of hair loss, such as male pattern baldness, are typically permanent, others can be temporary. For example, hair loss caused by stress or certain medications may grow back once the underlying cause is addressed.
Using hair products can cause hair loss.
Most hair products, including shampoos, conditioners, and styling products, are safe and do not cause hair loss. However, some products that contain harsh chemicals or irritants can damage hair and contribute to hair loss.
Massaging your scalp can prevent hair loss.
While scalp massage can help improve blood flow and promote healthy hair growth, it is not a proven method for preventing hair loss. Hair loss is usually caused by internal factors, such as genetics or hormonal changes, that cannot be prevented by external measures.
In conclusion, hair loss is a common issue that affects people of all ages and genders. While there are many myths and misconceptions about hair loss, it is important to understand the underlying causes to prevent or slow down the process. Hair loss can have many different causes, from genetics to hormonal changes, and it is essential to address these underlying issues to prevent further hair loss. By debunking these common myths, we hope to provide you with a better understanding of hair loss and how to address it. Remember, if you are experiencing hair loss, it is best to consult a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and the most effective treatment plan.
