6 Habits That Can Cause Hair Loss and Thinning
- Written by Vivek Khullar
- Dec 22, 2023
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- 7 min read
While genetics and changing hormone levels play major roles in hair health, there are bad everyday habits that can exacerbate the problem of hair loss, and contribute to damage. We know it’s hard to believe but you might be doing something trivial that could become the reason behind hair thinning later on.
That’s why Lordhair - a global supplier of women's wigs and men’s hairpieces - decided to shed light on some common habits that impact the health of hair follicles and become the reason for hair loss. Let’s get started with our list.
Habits That Lead to Hair Loss
Acknowledging bad hair habits is the first step toward making positive changes in our daily routines. Watch out for these hair loss triggers:
Excessive heat styling
The allure of perfectly styled hair can sometimes make us use heat-based tools like straighteners, curling irons, and blow dryers on a daily basis. While these tools can help achieve desired looks, they also subject our hair to high temperatures that can weaken the hair shaft, making it more prone to breakage and thinning over time. To minimize damage:
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Use heat-based styling tools on lower settings
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Use heat protectant sprays before styling.
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Use heat-based styling tools sparingly
Aggressive brushing
This bad hair habit is pretty common in men. Daily brushing or combing hair is an essential part of grooming but aggressive brushing, especially when the hair is wet, can lead to unnecessary stress on the hair shafts and scalp. This can result in hair breakage and increased thinning. To protect your hair, use a wide-toothed comb or a brush with soft bristles.
Pro tip: Start from the tips, gently working your way up.
Tight hairstyles and hair accessories
Hairstyles that involve tight pulling or binding of the hair, such as high ponytails, braids, and buns, can lead to a condition known as traction alopecia. This occurs when constant tension on the hair follicles causes damage and, eventually, hair loss. Opt for gentler hairstyles and avoid using tight hair accessories daily.
You may also be interested in these hair care and recovery resources as well:
- Hair loss prevention tips and recommendations
- Treatments for dry and brittle hair
- Basic hair care system for men and women
Junk food every day
The health of our hair is closely tied to our overall nutrition. Hair follicles require a steady supply of essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and proteins, to stay strong and healthy. And we are sorry to say that fries and pizzas don’t have them.
Deficiencies in key nutrients such as iron, biotin, and vitamins A and D can lead to weakened hair structure and increased shedding. To support healthy hair growth, incorporate a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
Daily chemical exposure
Men who use hair gels and shampoo every day, we are looking at you. Many hair products contain harsh chemicals like sulfates, parabens, and formaldehyde, which can strip the hair of its natural oils and lead to damage. Continuous use of such products can contribute to hair thinning over time. Kick this bad hair habit and opt for natural, sulfate-free alternatives. Look for products that promote gentle cleansing and nourishment.
Ignoring scalp health
Often overlooked, the health of our scalp is integral to the well-being of our hair. Conditions like dandruff, excess oiliness, or dryness can disrupt the hair growth cycle and lead to hair loss. Regularly cleansing and moisturizing the scalp, and using products designed to address specific scalp concerns, can help maintain a healthy environment for hair growth.
Additional bad hair habits:
Since you have reached so far, we have some bonus bad hair habits for you!
1. Overnight oiling: While oiling is good, leaving it on all night can make the scalp greasy and cause hair trouble.
2. Frequent wet hair styling: This is something teens do a lot. Using water to style hair frequently can strain weak hair strands, making them fall out.
Bad Habits Causing Hair Loss: Conclusion
By recognizing and addressing these common bad hair habits, individuals can take proactive steps towards preserving and promoting healthy hair.
However, if you're a mature adult who has reached an advanced stage of hair loss, these changes might not cut it. If you have big bald patches or aggressive thinning, men’s human hair wigs can help.
At Lordhair, we design a variety of partial and full-coverage hair systems that can deliver the color, style, and hair you desire. Check out this collection of toupees to discover our range of non-surgical hair recovery products.
If you have any queries or concerns, please feel free to drop them in the comments section.