The average person loses around 100 hairs during the course of each day, notes the U.S. Library of Medicine. A strand of hair is able to survive for four to five years before falling out in the fifth year, and with the average scalp containing over 100,000 hairs, shedding is natural. If you feel like you're losing more hair than usual or want to be sure that you care for your hair to avoid hair loss, taking gentle care of your hair can help you keep more of it on your head instead of in your hairbrush.
Treatment and Styling
The day-to-day wear and tear on your hair can cause it to fall out prematurely due to harsh chemicals, rough treatment and dryness. If you are concerned about losing your hair, avoid chemical treatments like relaxing and coloring. Both severely dry out the hair shaft and cuticle, leaving it susceptible to breakage and falling out. Heated styling tools should be used sparingly, as they can cause damage as well.
Shampoo Choices
You might have chosen a specific shampoo to help make your hair stronger, but your shampoo may actually cause hair loss. Most shampoos contain a detergent called sodium lauryl sulfate, which creates the bubbling action to make your shampoo sudsy. Unfortunately, it can be drying, leaving your hair needing hydration through conditioner. It is also acidic and can damage hair follicles, making it harder for you to grow back hair when hair has fallen out. Search for shampoos without this ingredient, often found in the health food sections of stores.
Relaxation Techniques
Hair loss can often be the result of excess stress in your life. Just about any type of stress caused by your personal life, business experience or changes in your family or health can cause hair to fall out, points out TODAY contributor Dr. Judith Reichman. Take some time each day to meditate, reflect or otherwise relax to keep your hair on your head. Don't be alarmed if you notice hair loss immediately following a stressful event; it's completely normal.
Better Weaves
Weaves are a popular choice for those who are looking for quick hair growth and a different style, but the same weave that makes you look like you have long, healthy hair can actually be causing your hair to fall out. The International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery warns against a condition known as traction alopecia, or the loss of hair due to the tight braiding required for traditional weaves. Save your hair by opting for a glue-bonded weave or make peace with your natural hair so you can go weave-free.
Physician Intervention
If your hair loss seems extreme or you're worried about your hair, talk to your doctor, recommends the American Academy of Family Physicians. Certain medications, hormonal imbalances and treatments can cause hair loss. Your doctor may be able to switch your medications or talk to about other treatments to help preserve your head of hair.
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