Misconceptions about hair loss
Hair loss is a common reason to consult a dermatologist. It is considered by some to be a benign condition, but it can cause psychological distress in some patients and have a real impact on quality of life. There are numerous misconceptions about hair loss in everyday life. Let’s use this opportunity analyze some of them, to untangle the true from the false and to adopt the right habits in case of hair loss.
Alopecia can occur at any age
TRUE - It is not uncommon to see some cases of androgenetic alopecia start early, from the age of 20. In these cases, there is a significant genetic factor. Spot baldness, ringworm, scarring alopecia or traction alopecia can be found in children.
Hair loss is irreversible
FALSE - Not all types of hair loss are the same. For example, reactional hair loss is easier to manage than chronic hormonal hair loss or androgenetic alopecia.
Hair loss only affects men
FALSE - Both men and women are affected. However, the consequences are different: in men, hair loss is often localized and can lead to baldness. In women, it is more diffuse.
Hair loss can be prevented with "anti-hair loss" foods
TRUE - An insufficient intake of vitamins and minerals, especially in the case of a dietary imbalance or a diet that is too strict, can be the cause of hair loss. To avoid this, choose “anti-hair loss" foods rich in B vitamins (B2, B3, B5, B6, B8 and B9): they play an essential physiological role in the life of hair cells and therefore in hair formation and healthy growth. On the menu: walnuts, hazelnuts, bananas, cereals, or seafood
Alopecia can occur at any age
TRUE - It is not uncommon to see some cases of androgenetic alopecia start early, from the age of 20. In these cases, there is a significant genetic factor. Spot baldness, ringworm, scarring alopecia or traction alopecia can be found in children.
Hair loss is irreversible
FALSE - Not all types of hair loss are the same. For example, reactional hair loss is easier to manage than chronic hormonal hair loss or androgenetic alopecia.
Hair loss only affects men
FALSE - Both men and women are affected. However, the consequences are different: in men, hair loss is often localized and can lead to baldness. In women, it is more diffuse.
Hair loss can be prevented with "anti-hair loss" foods
TRUE - An insufficient intake of vitamins and minerals, especially in the case of a dietary imbalance or a diet that is too strict, can be the cause of hair loss. To avoid this, choose “anti-hair loss" foods rich in B vitamins (B2, B3, B5, B6, B8 and B9): they play an essential physiological role in the life of hair cells and therefore in hair formation and healthy growth. On the menu: walnuts, hazelnuts, bananas, cereals, or seafood
The best hair loss habits
A diet rich in vitamins isn’t the only thing you can do to provide your hair with all the nutrients it needs to grow properly and live better with hair loss.
If your hair has a tendency of falling out, either due to reactional or chronic hair loss, your hair care routine must be adapted. Hair needs to be treated gently with nonaggressive products. Gentle shampoos and detangling products are essential. Stimulating blood circulation in the scalp with a massage, in the shower in the morning or before going to bed, should become a habit. It is also important to cover your head, sometimes left without hair, to protect yourself from the sun and other damaging environmental agents such as pollution.
Along with the misconceptions about hair loss, there are also misconceptions about the things to avoid in order to live better with alopecia:
If your hair has a tendency of falling out, either due to reactional or chronic hair loss, your hair care routine must be adapted. Hair needs to be treated gently with nonaggressive products. Gentle shampoos and detangling products are essential. Stimulating blood circulation in the scalp with a massage, in the shower in the morning or before going to bed, should become a habit. It is also important to cover your head, sometimes left without hair, to protect yourself from the sun and other damaging environmental agents such as pollution.
Along with the misconceptions about hair loss, there are also misconceptions about the things to avoid in order to live better with alopecia:
- Beware of hairstyles that are too tight as they can aggravate the problem by pulling on the hair. Braiding too often, intensive straightening or wearing hair extensions can damage hair and can cause hair loss, sometimes permanently. Loose, free-flowing hair is the ideal solution for hairstyling in case of alopecia.
- Waiting for hair loss to subside on its own is not recommended. Seeing a dermatologist as soon as possible helps prevent hair loss. Especially since hair loss management remains a challenge for both patients and healthcare professionals.