Friday, March 9, 2012

Solving Hair Loss and Hair Thinning Problems through a Salon

Hair Loss is a common condition where your hair’s growth cycle slows or, in some cases, completely stops. It can be devastating, particularly to women, to be faced with hair loss, for mainly cosmetic reasons.

There are many different ways for you to deal with your hair loss. Choosing the right salon will go a long way towards helping your condition and, in the process, your self-esteem.

The right salon can help you in the following ways:

• Choose a salon that is knowledgeable about hair loss. This can be as simple as placing a phone call. Most hairstylists are trained to minimize the appearance of hair loss and can show you styling tricks that will make your hair appear fuller.

Typically, stylists who participate in continued training will be knowledgeable about the latest tips and tricks. It is acceptable to inquire if the stylists participate in ‘continuing education’ courses.

• The right salon for you is deeply concerned about the products that they use or sell. They should have an intimate knowledge of not only the ingredients in the products, but also how those ingredients will be beneficial to you.

A large selection of products will generally lead to a better outcome, because they can put together a blend of products to address each and any problem that you have with your hair.

• You may want to look for a salon that offers hair extensions. Even if you do not want to add any length to your hair, stylists may be able to make your hair look just like your original hair, but fuller, through the use of real-hair extensions. Extensions made from real hair can be washed, dried, and styled just like your own hair, and could be a great option for you.

• Consider getting your hair colored. Not only do certain colors make the hair shaft swell, making it look thicker, but adding multi-dimensional highlights can add depth to your hair. Your hairstylist may decide to color the hair all over, and then add highlights on top, for maximum fullness.

If you decide to take this route, be sure that you purchase styling products that are especially for color-treated hair, or you may make the problem worse!

• Avoid heat hairstyling tools. Unless you are a professional, you may be causing a lot of damage to your hair through the use of heat styling tools. If you abuse them, you can cause your hair to turn brittle and break off, thus making it look even thinner.

Ask your stylist to give you a hair cut that can be fixed without the use of heat styling tools. They will be able to show you how to style your hair with the least amount of damage, and certainly recommend products that would also help with your styling.

• Wear your hair down. Pulling your hair back in tight ponytail, or using rubber bands as pony tail holders can cause your hair to break. Your hair may be brittle from the use of heat styling tools, or damaged from over-processing, so be sure to tell your stylist exactly what you want and need to better your thinning hair.

Friday, March 2, 2012

Regain Your Healthy Mane with Laser Therapy for Hair Loss

Laser hair loss treatment is becoming quite popular in many parts of the world. This is a technique that is used to prevent or stop loss of hair. It can be used by anyone experiencing hair thinning or even balding. It is usually administered by professionals who are specially trained and highly qualified.

The process includes stimulation of your scalp with lasers that are low-level. When the laser light comes into contact with your scalp, it stimulates production of your red blood cells. This in turn increases circulation of blood to your scalp, thus stimulating follicles and enabling them to grow healthy hair again.

The therapy may be applied in areas where there is thinning or balding spots. It improves the strength and elasticity of hair. Hair thus becomes fuller, shinier, softer, and thicker. It can also repair any damages related to chemical processing.

This non-surgical operation is very safe. Results may however depend on a number of factors. Such factors could include genetics, how long the thinning has been going on, the type of baldness one is experiencing, and the stage of balding one is at. For more successful results, having repeated treatments for several months may be necessary.

If you wish to undergo such procedure, you could first consult a doctor who can give you an overview of this hair loss treatment. This doctor will usually perform thorough tests to know if you are suitable for this therapy. He may also anticipate how successful the procedure will be and also offer you the necessary advice.

Hair thinning and baldness may sometimes create problems of self-image or lack of self-confidence. Many people try to look for ways of restoring their hair to its former thickness. Anyone who is serious about this kind of hair restoration could use laser hair loss treatment which is not only safe but quite affordable.

Thursday, February 23, 2012

Which Vitamins Optimize Healthy Hair Growth

Minerals and vitamins, and other nutrients in our diet, play a vital role in preventing hair loss and promoting natural hair growth. It is not possible to depend on just one type of vitamin, as obtaining healthy hair growth may entail consuming various foods that contain nutrients good for the scalp and hair.

Vitamin A can be obtained from beta carotene which is an antioxidant. Vegetables that are yellow, green, and orange, such as kale, turnip greens, squash, spinach, and yams have adequate quantities of beta carotene.

For healthy hair growth, get an adequate supply of vitamin B-complex by consuming lean meats such as chicken, fish, turkey, as well as dairy products and whole grains. Chickpeas are excellent for providing B vitamins as well as zinc. You can get your requirement of zinc by eating meat and fish.

Iron, which is also vital for the growth of lustrous and thick hair, is in vegetables such as spinach, Swiss chard, kale, and broccoli, which enable oxygen supply to the hair. Dates, eggs, raisins and liver also contain iron.

If you eat dark green vegetables that contain vitamins C and A, you will promote sebum production that will work as a good conditioner and moisturizer. Take vitamin C if you wish to encourage good supply of blood to the scalp.

Vitamin E is helpful for promoting hair growth. If you take these vitamins, you can prevent hair loss as well as encourage blood circulation to the hair follicles. Take green vegetables, especially the dark green variety, such as broccoli along with whole grains, eggs, nuts, seeds, and legumes.

Ensure that you drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated. You need to take proteins, such as omega 3 and 6, along with fatty acids to prevent hair loss and to ensure that the hair is well moisturized.

Make sure you include foods such as salmon, tuna, trout and oily fish along with olives, flax seeds, avocados, spinach, liver and pumpkinseeds in your diet to achieve healthy hair growth.

Friday, February 17, 2012

All about Female Hair Loss: From Simple Tips to Long-Term Treatments

Hair loss is a very common problem faced by most people. While not as common as male hair loss, female alopecia strikes a significant number of women every year.

‘Hereditary hair loss factors are the most difficult to deal with, but one can reduce the effect from an early stage. Many of our hair roots are still alive, and it is still possible to grow them back’, shares one dermatologist.

Women are especially depressed about losing their hair as their beauty depends a lot on their hairstyles. Fortunately, hair loss in women typically does not result in complete baldness, as is often the case with men.

Although hair loss may seem like a major problem among men, women are just as likely to lose or have thinning hair. Most women notice it in their 50s or 60s, but it can happen at any age and for a variety of reasons.

There are many reasons that cause hair loss. Women are excessive users of chemicals on their scalps. They use shampoos and conditioners that are based on chemical ingredients, which can weaken the scalp and make it hard to hold on to the hair.

Women also tend to dye their hair way too much. It’s not that they shouldn’t, but they should use less chemical dyes and use more natural resources like henna for instance.

Another reason for hair fall is dandruff. One can avoid dandruff by making sure that the daily intake of water is enough for your hair. A daily gentle rub using natural oils and a deep conditioner on the scalp at night for a whole week are also advisable. Also, wash your hair every day in the morning for practical reasons before starting your daily activities, but use an organically formulated dandruff shampoo, preferably.

Constant stress and worrying are the biggest and worst reasons that can cause hair loss. This affects women much more than men because men tend to let out their stress, but women keep it inside, which eventually builds up and affects their health and mind.

A sudden or stressful event can cause the hair follicles to prematurely stop functioning and enter into a resting phase. This can last for as long as 6 to 12 weeks, or much longer if left untreated. If untreated, it can lead to temporary hair loss.

Friday, February 10, 2012

Healthy Hair Care: Mask Your Hair from Damage

Your hair is an important expression of who you are. A woman with well-groomed and lustrous hair is known to attract men.

That apart, the texture of your hair also signifies youth, health, strength and vitality. Many people, especially women, don’t feel right unless their hair looks perfect. There are days when you find yourself saying, ‘It’s just another bad hair day’.

Hair structure
The structure of the hair shaft comprises the medulla, the cortex and the cuticle. The medulla is the innermost core of hair and has soft keratin cells. The cortex is the second layer and gives your hair inherent strength and elasticity. It contains the pigment melanin, which is responsible for the colour of your hair. The outermost layer is the cuticle which acts as a protective shield.

Hair scare
Each part of your body needs care, so does your hair. You often tend to realise this only when your mane starts suffering from split ends, dryness and loss of shine. The environment, pollutants, harmful chemicals, an imbalanced diet, stress, UV rays, lack of sleep and water are some of the major factors affecting your hair. As dust and dirt cling to your hair, it begs all the more for maintenance. Hence, hair care mainly depends on your hair type and the problem you are having with it.

Why use hair masks
A hair mask is wellness for your hair. Just as the skin requires regular facials for rejuvenations, your hair needs a similar kind of pampering too and hair masks are a good way to do that. Masks contain nutrients and active substances to strengthen and restore hair structure, which makes them great conditioners that will add lustre and shine to hair.

What you need to know
Hair is not just your crowning glory but a vital factor of self-image, prestige and confidence. The way your hair looks depends on what you eat and drink. A balanced diet and the right intake of water help maintain natural shine and keep a lot of hair and scalp problems at bay. All external applications like hair masks and conditioners work on the cuticle and can alter only the external appearance of the hair. However, they are not responsible for the inner strength of the hair.

Step by step
Masks should be applied often if your hair is being exposed to chlorine, seawater or excessive sun, as well as frequent colouring.

1. Apply the mask evenly on every strand of your hair.
2. Leave it for 30 to 40 minutes depending on the ingredients of the mask.
3. Wrap your hair in a warm towel while the mask works its wonders. It will amplify the mask’s effect and make you feel good too.
4. Do not leave the mask on for more than the required time.
5. After the requisite time, rinse thoroughly with warm water. A good mask will take longer to rinse out than a shampoo or conditioner, so give it the time it needs. To give your hair more shine, finish off by spraying some cool water.
6. Use a wide-toothed comb to detangle wet hair. Brush it only when it is dry.
7. Avoid using a hairdryer to dry your hair after the wash as the heat can make your hair dry and coarse again.

Friday, February 3, 2012

Hair Systems: Short-Term Solutions to Hair Loss

The first precaution in purchasing or using a hair system — wig, toupee, hair weave — of course would be to make sure it doesn’t fall off. The place you buy it from will probably brief you on how to use the wig. It would be a good idea to wear it at home so you are comfortable in it before braving the outside world. This will also alert you to what not to do with it lest you discover in the bathroom mirror that you have been looking very silly for the past three hours! It is bound to feel uncomfortable and itchy in the beginning. If the itching persists at uncomfortable levels, go back to the store/stylist for an adjustment.

Trichology centres will also load you with maintenance therapies and accessories that will cost a bomb. So while deciding your budget, leave some leeway for extra costs.

Thinking you can wear a wig without anyone noticing is being naïve. It is more for the wearer’s own satisfaction than the onlooker’s benefit. Also, once you start wearing a wig, you can’t go a day without it for the sake of consistency. It adds to things you need to do routinely. Overtime, you get used to it but it sure is inconvenient.

For those who do not wish to go for invasive procedures but can’t stand the sight of that bald spot, wigs are a good option. Once you decide, go for a professional wig maker who can customise the wig for you. Also, being stingy on the cost is not a good idea because this is an accessory to be worn for long periods every day.

Finally, do not expect miraculous makeovers. The people you see on TV have highly-paid professionals continuously looking after them and their styling. Also, remember that they are paid for how they look.

Friday, January 27, 2012

Treatment Options for Women with Hair Loss

If you are a woman who is losing hair, there are a lot of questions you probably have. Learning more about the reasons for your hair loss and the ways that you can treat it will help you to deal with the feelings you experience.

Massaging your scalp increases blood circulation which helps stimulate hair growth. Hair loss victims and experts alike recommend using oils such as almond and coconut oil. Olive oil can also be used. A scalp massage is not only highly effective but also very easy to incorporate into one’s hair loss treatment regimen.

Henna leaves and mustard oil are very effective hair regrowth treatments. Mix them together to stimulate your follicles. Boil some henna leaves with about 250 grams of mustard oil. Use a piece of cloth to strain the oil. Rub the mixture onto your scalp.

Saw palmetto has been proven to be one of the world’s best herbs for female baldness or alopecia. Saw palmetto is actually rich in dihydrotestosterone-inhibiting components and hence acts as one of the most effective anti-androgen agents. Applying a hair loss shampoo formulated with saw palmetto extracts can help you stop losing hair. The DHT-inhibiting components of saw palmetto work on the follicles and hair roots, thereby strengthening the hair and scalp both on the surface and within.

Vitamin deficiency is common among women with thinning hair. The strands need vitamin B in order to grow and remain strong. Vitamin B also helps the body produce the type of protein the strands need.

The Orient has given us lots of natural hair loss remedies. They comprise mixtures of aloe, arnica, honey, brahmi and mulberries, amongst others. Ayurveda, an olden day’s medical discipline from India, involves massages with and ingestion of certain herbal formulations. Obviously, these approaches can be benefited if only an experienced practitioner is involved.

Tuesday, January 24, 2012

Your Hair Is What You Eat

Some men see having a full head of hair as good luck, but research shows it could be the result of a good diet. A well-balanced diet enhances the nourishment of the cells, tissues, and more importantly, the hair follicles in the scalp. Without proper nourishment, the hair follicles cease to properly function, that is, to grow healthy hair.

Fruits, vegetables and protein-rich foods ought to be grocery list regulars. But do you know which ones can actually improve the state and health of your hair and scalp?

Scientists say eating prunes, kidney beans and green peas can tame your mane, and that shrimp contains key vitamins and minerals that battle hair loss.

The list does not stop there. Walnuts, pumpkin seeds and steel-cut oats contain zinc, iron and omega-6 fatty acids which research shows are essential to healthy hair growth.

Scientists say a bowl of oatmeal a day can make a difference. Eggs are also on the healthy hair diet. They are rich in vitamin B-7, which is often prescribed alongside other medications that fight hair loss.

Then there also the ‘perhaps less appetising’ foods that can, all the more, help your hair grow with volume and lustre: sardines and calf liver. Research shows both are excellent sources of vitamin B-12 and sardines are rich in vitamin D, which is has been shown to effectively prevent hair loss in chemotherapy patients.

Your hair can only be as good as the foods you eat every day. Having a healthy diet is one of the easiest and most prime ways to keep the scalp and hair healthy. Take note that the hair is observed to be the last of the body parts to be able to take up nutrients.

So if you are worried about what is on top of your head, you may want to be more mindful of what you are putting in your stomach.

Thursday, December 22, 2011

Treatment Mechanism of Saw Palmetto as a Hair Loss Remedy

Saw palmetto hair loss treatment is a type of herbal remedy that can be used to treat a type of hair loss and baldness called androgenic alopecia.

This condition is also called male or female pattern baldness. This is characterised by hair loss that is usually greatest at the top of the head or around the temples.

Saw Palmetto Hair Loss Remedy: Where It Comes From

The saw palmetto is actually a dwarf palm plant that is native to North America. It primarily grows along the Atlantic Coast of Florida and Georgia. It has been noted that the active ingredient that is responsible for preventing hair loss can be found in the black-brown berries of the saw palmetto plant.

This plant has been widely used by the Native Americans for its medicinal benefits such as treating urinary conditions in men and breast disorders in women. Later on, it has become an accepted treatment for a disease called benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH, which is one of the most common disorders occurring among men. The plant is popular for treating BPH in areas such as Europe and New Zealand.

Saw Palmetto Hair Loss Treatment: How It Works

Although there are no concrete research studies that have been made about this plant and how it works for hair loss, it is believed that the plant can block an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase. This enzyme is responsible for converting testosterone into another hormone called Dihydrotestosterone, or DHT. This hormone is responsible for causing hair loss because it binds itself to the hair follicles, decreasing the amount of nutrients that the hair can extract from the blood. The follicles gradually shrink in size and the hair that grows on them consequently becomes thinner. If no action is taken against DHT, this could cause the hair to disappear completely.

Because saw palmetto inhibits 5-alpha reductase, there is no enzyme that can convert testosterone to DHT. This leaves the hair safe from this unwanted hormone.

There are other drugs that can inhibit the conversion of testosterone to DHT; however, these synthetic drugs are taken in orally and can produce side effects such as erectile dysfunction and gynecomastia. The good thing about saw palmetto is that it is an herbal treatment which has a similar effect to the drug finasteride, but does not affect the entire organism and therefore has no side effects associated with finasteride and other prescription drugs.

How to Use Saw Palmetto Hair Loss Treatment

Saw palmetto for hair loss can be purchased as an oil extract or as an ointment. When purchased as either, it can be used by directly massaging the oil or ointment onto the scalp. The massaging motion on the scalp also promotes blood circulation that brings life-giving oxygen to the hair follicles, promoting rejuvenation of the hair cells. The oil is also easily absorbed by the scalp, making it a very effective treatment.

Thursday, December 15, 2011

How to Naturally Revive Healthy Hair Growth

Before you check out the numerous products and remedies in the marketplace to stop hair loss or regrow hair, it’s best to first understand hair loss and growth before deciding on the best avenue for you to pursue, as it may be possible to regrow your hair naturally. Here is a look at some steps to get you started on the right path:

1. Have a balanced diet

While this is a good idea for your overall health and body, this is also good for your scalp. Going on crash diets, starving yourself, or just general bad eating habits will cause your hair to be lacking in much needed nutrients it requires for growth and health.

Required daily amounts of B vitamins and healthy oils that contain omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are critical if you want to have healthy hair that’s nice and full. Because our bodies can’t manufacture omega-3 and omega-6, it’s important that we get them from foods.

Omega-3 is found in vegetables, cold-water fish and other food sources. Foods where you’ll find omega-3 include canola oil, soybean oil, lake trout, salmon, beans and walnuts. Omega-6 can be found in plant-based oils and animal-based foods. Omega-6 sources would include sunflower oil, safflower oil and corn oil.

If you don’t use any of the above products, you also have the option of taking omega-3 and omega-6 supplements that are available and you could use instead.

2. Maintain a healthy lifestyle

Long periods of stress can contribute to hair loss. Stress comes in multiple forms — physical, emotional, or psychological — which can be brought about by certain experiences or daily activities occurring in your life. It’s very important to find ways to reduce the stress you face either through meditation, prayer, exercise or recreational activities.

3. Get enough protein

Your hair is made up of almost 91% protein. The key amino acid in this is called cysteine. By including foods in your diet which include cysteine, it’ll provide your hair with the protein needed to help it grow. Here is a list of the some of the foods to target: eggs, milk, broccoli, granola, yoghurt, garlic, and onions.

4. Try aromatherapy

Using oils every day and massaging them into your scalp can help promote hair growth. Studies have shown that some people see a significant amount of re-growth in their hair after massaging a mixture of essential oil and carrier oils.

Thursday, December 1, 2011

How to Get Your Hair Constantly Growing

Hair grows in phases. Any hair growth discussion would be incomplete without talking about the follicle. The follicle is the part of the scalp from which the hair grows. These are essentially skin organs that build the shaft of the hair and then the hair itself. During the 3 phases of hair growth — which last for varying durations of time and differ from person to person — the hair continues to grow, stops growing and then falls off.

According to accepted definitions, it is normal for the human scalp to lose 50 to 100 hair strands every day. However, when the amount of hair that is lost exceeds this number, the need for intervention to promote natural hair regrowth is desired.

What can you do to promote hair growth?

In order to promote hair growth, what is required is an understanding of how hair grows, what are the problems that affect it and the causes for such problems. Today, many are faced with problems of male pattern baldness. It is prevalent in all countries and is a reason for concern for most men. Therefore, a lot of time, effort and money are spent on research in order to develop products that induce natural hair regrowth. Some of them can be used by people themselves at home while others may require the assistance of a specialist for administration.

How do you know if a product can work for you?

There is no definite way to know if a product that is known to induce natural hair regrowth can work for you or not. What you have, as an individual, to weigh if a product is good or not is the reputation of the product, the experiences of the people who have used it and of course your own reservations about trying it. It must be added here that your reservations for trying a product that helps the hair regrow naturally should be well founded, since most natural products do not have side effects. Hence most of them can be tried without worsening the problem. Unlike synthetic or artificial preparations which may cause unintended effects, natural products are safe for trying.

What are the commonly used natural extracts?

For natural hair regrowth, the commonly used extracts today include ginseng root, vital amino acids and vitamins that are required in the body, ginkgo biloba, rehmannia, horsetail plant and nettle extract among others. These extracts are not quick fix solutions. They are meant to help the body repair itself and so as to allow natural regrowth of hair. Hence, when you try them, you should not do so with the aim of achieving results in a restricted or predetermined span of time. Rather you should try them and measure results in a liberal manner, so as to ascertain their effectiveness.

Thursday, November 24, 2011

Stem Cell Hair Regrowth: Revolutionising the World of Hair Loss Treatment

The world of stem cell research has extensive coverage — even delving into stem cell hair regrowth. Stem cell hair regrowth is all about using stem cells to treat hair loss.

The concept of stem cell hair regrowth is still currently a theory but scientists are looking into the possibility of using stem cells in order to produce healthy hair follicles. Scientists believe that placing stem cells near dying or damaged cells and stumped hair follicles will revive the said cells and follicles back into life. Since stem cells can grow and transform into specialised cells, it has been considered to be an effective means of regrowing hair.

Stem Cell Hair Regrowth: Innovative Treatment

Growing hair follicles by stem cells is an innovative treatment that can recover lost hair. The avenue is now open for stem cell hair regrowth and many clinics and doctors are immersing their practices in this brand-new concept. Stem cell hair growth is a promising non-invasive and non-surgical treatment but as effective as hair implants, which is the surgical treatment for hair loss.

The promise of stem cell hair growth is backed up studies and experiments done on mice, on the specific purpose of growing hair and combating hair loss. The stem cell hair regrowth treatment is still in its initial and research stage. Some say it may take a decade or more before stem cell hair regrowth can be perfected and used by men who have frontal hair loss. There is also a considerable amount of time before the treatment can be launched into mainstream medicine.

Surgical and Non-Surgical Hair Regrowth Solutions

In the mean time, there are available treatments, both surgical and non-surgical, aside from the possibility of stem cell hair regrowth. Surgical methods often include hair transplant wherein healthy hair follicles are transported from the back and sides of the head to the bald scalp areas. Non-surgical methods many include oral medication, creams, hairpieces and other means to cover the balding patches.

The costs of hair loss treatments vary from one kind to another but the most expensive remains to be hair transplantation. This is due to the price of hair grafts. A hair graft’s average cost revolves around 6 dollars per graft. If there are many hair grafts to be transported to cover a bald area, it would be costly for the patient and would require a number of sessions to complete the whole transplant.

Non-surgical methods are comparatively cheaper than a hair transplant but these require constant reapplication or ingestion, depending on the treatment’s mechanism.

For the meantime, these are the hair loss treatment options. However, with stem cell hair regrowth, treatment of hair loss will be revolutionised.

Friday, November 18, 2011

Proven, Approved, and Foremost Hair Loss Products

Studies show that more than three and a half billion dollars a year is spent on hair loss treatments. The bad news is that studies also show that nearly all of these products don’t work at all for most of the people who buy them.

Losing one’s hair is a very depressing situation that can affect both men and women. The American Hair Loss Association advises people who experience thinning of hair to only use products approved by the FDA. Excessive falling or thinning of hair and weak hair regeneration or growth can be caused by numerous things, from inherited genes to excessive use of hair products.

Getting professional hair loss treatment is common nowadays and is done differently between men and women. Hence, anyone experiencing a significant loss of hair would try some sort of treatment since a thinning hairline or going bald isn’t really appealing. With that in mind, here are some popular treatments for men and women experiencing thinning of hair.

Finasteride
This drug was first approved by the FDA to treat problems with the prostate glands, but it was noticed that it grew hair, so the company decided to see if that side effect could be turned into a way to help balding men.

In 1997, it was approved as an advanced hair loss treatment and is considered a successful drug in the pursuit of growing hair and helping treat male baldness. It was found to help in 85 per cent of the time in trials. Today, it is a widely used drug to counter baldness among men.

Minoxidil
Minoxidil was discovered similar to finasteride; it had a side effect of growing hair in its original use for high blood pressure. It caused people taking it to grow hair on their foreheads and even eyebrows. When rubbed onto the bald spots on the head, it was shown to slow down thinning of hair. Unfortunately, it also has been found to not give a permanent and a lasting effect.

When it comes to women who are suffering from baldness, it’s hard to know what sort of hair loss treatment to give since a lot of these treatments have androgen properties, which would end up causing women to develop male characteristics, so not many doctors would be advising those mentioned above to women.

Also, women need to tackle their baldness right when they first notice it or else many of their hair follicles will be permanently destroyed and any hair loss treatment would not help very much. The same goes if treatment is stopped. On the other hand, minoxidil is approved to be used by women topically in a two per cent solution only. The stronger five per cent used by the guys is not approved for women, but is still prescribed by some doctors.

A study involving women ageing from 18-45 with mild up to moderate balding showed 19 per cent had moderate hair growth, and 40 per cent had at least some hair growth. This was after using the minoxidil solution for eight months.

Other types of hair loss treatments for men and women could include natural treatments such as certain herbal treatments or special washes. There are plenty of hair thinning treatment products available today. If you are experiencing significant loss of hair and plan to use one of those mentioned above, consult your doctor first and have a clear and better understanding of what you would be getting into. Remember that these are actual drugs also used for something else.

Friday, November 11, 2011

Guidelines to Keep Your Hair Growing with Health

The hormone dihydrotestosterone is mainly responsible for male pattern baldness. However, medical science still does not have any concrete explanation as to how this hormone affects the hair of men. The researchers have only come to the conclusion that dihydrotestosterone leads to a condition known as follicular miniaturization. And that this condition is somewhat responsible for the thinning of our hair. But on the other hand, heredity is a strong reason for hair loss in men. And it is an established truth.

Are you experiencing severe hair loss? If your answer is yes, then you should immediately follow the guidelines mentioned below:

First of all, you should consume loads of protein to stop hair loss. A good protein diet will ensure healthy hair in your body. This is because our hair shaft is made out of keratin, and this is a type of protein. Therefore, the formula is pretty simple: increase the intake of protein in your diet chart. Include fish, egg whites, and milk for at least one of your meals. However, this does not mean that you should neglect the importance of vitamins and minerals in your diet at any cost. A combination of vitamins B and C, taken along with biotin, will definitely make your hair follicles healthier. On the other hand, minerals such as potassium will make your hair shafts stronger.
Secondly, you should not let yourself get stressed. Anxiety and worry is not at all healthy for your body. It is not at all good for the health of your hair. Therefore, you should keep your-work related worries at the office. Always try to keep your mind in a relaxed state. A session of yoga and meditation will definitely help you to achieve that state of mind. Your time spent on these age-old practices will surely reflect on the health of your hair.

Next, to stop hair loss, you must lead a disciplined lifestyle. Remember, drinking alcohol and smoking is never good for your hair follicles. Too much intake of caffeine and carbonated sodas is also not good for your hair health. Moreover, disturbances in your sleep pattern and insomnia are very damaging to the immune system, and they eventually make your hair shafts weaker. So, try to correct these practices and make a habit of going early to bed. Try not to work late at nights; it will help to strengthen the immune system and also improve your hair growth at the same time.


You must also not underestimate the importance of exercising. Regular exercise for about forty minutes a day will keep your mind and body healthy. Moreover, exercising will also help you to keep the stress levels under control. And this is always good for your hair health in the long run. You would be surprised to know that sweat plays an important role as far as the health of your hair is concerned. While too much sweat is not good for your hair follicles, drops of sweat on the other hand can unclog the hair pores.

Friday, November 4, 2011

For Safe and Effective Treatments for Female Hair Loss, Go Natural!

There are certain natural remedies which can be used to treat hair loss in females. While male hair loss is predominately caused by a combination of genetics and a by-product of the male hormone testosterone, in women it can be caused by a much wider variety of factors. Though not nearly as common as male balding, loss of hair (alopecia) in women is no less troubling to those who suffer from it. While some females go for surgical options or wigs, there are promising dietary and natural alternatives that can help promote healthy hair regrowth and reverse the effects of female alopecia.

Proper Diet

It is important to eat a healthy, well-balanced diet to prevent one of the root contributors to female hair loss. A diet which is low in fat but still provides sufficient protein is good for hair growth. High-fat intake can interfere with the natural growth mechanism of female hair, especially when combined with other environmental factors.

Since hair follicles are made from protein, inadequate protein intake can contribute to weakening the hair follicles; in turn, hair growth is at a slower pace and of poor hair quality. Sufficient dietary intake of protein can help reverse sudden shedding of hair.


B Vitamins

The B vitamins serve an important role in promoting hair growth. Women experiencing hair loss may have a vitamin B12 or B6 deficiency. Good sources of vitamin B6 include meat, eggs and poultry. There may also be a biotin, or vitamin B7, deficiency which can contribute to unhealthy hair follicles. Although found in a wide variety of foods, good sources of biotin include salmon, egg yolks and liver. It can be helpful to take a vitamin B complex supplement which provides a good daily amount of all B vitamins that contribute to healthy hair.





Jojoba Oil

Jojoba oil has also been used to promote hair growth when the hair loss is due to the hair follicles being clogged by too much sebum. This type of alopecia can occur with certain hair conditions such as dermatitis, eczema and psoriasis. If the hair loss is due to genetic factors, jojoba can alleviate the effects of environmental factors that inhibit regrowth. Jojoba oil is also rich in vitamin E and antioxidants.






Lavender Oil
Lavender oil has been used as a remedy for hair loss in both men and women. This is because lavender oil contains anti-septic and anti-inflammatory properties which help treat thinning hair. This oil can be massaged onto the scalp and absorbs easily and cleanly.







Aloe Vera

Another safe and natural remedy for female alopecia which has been used effectively is aloe vera. An enzyme in aloe vera promotes hair growth. Aloe vera can come in a gel or lotion form which can be applied directly to the scalp. The aloe vera gel can also be combined with coconut milk and wheat germ oil to create a shampoo to wash the hair. Some studies have indicated that it may be beneficial for hair growth when consumed orally as well.

Thursday, October 27, 2011

Making Your Way Out of a Maze of Hair Loss Remedies

People have been experiencing the issue of hair loss for a very long time. However, it has certainly increased in today’s times. A lot of people have to eventually go through this condition in their lives. The way of living of people, in today’s time, is the major cause of the condition.

With hair loss now becoming a very common problem, there are also many treatments available. The need to select a particular one, however, becomes somehow complex. Understanding the condition and finding out the hair loss cause is very important in order to select the appropriate treatment.

There are a variety of factors that lead to hair loss. Stress is one of the most common causes in both male and female hair loss. Hair loss can thus be prevented if one can bring stress under control.

Hair loss can also be brought about by certain critical illnesses. Hormonal imbalance is yet another factor that may lead to hair loss. If one experiences sudden unnatural loss of hair, then it is advisable to visit a doctor to know the cause, as it might be due to some fatal disease.

Hormonal changes during pregnancy can also cause hair loss in women. In such a case, excessive shedding of hair is only temporary. As time passes, healthy hair growth may resume. Inadequate intake of some nutrients can also be one of the reasons for hair loss. Thus, one must be more mindful of having a well-balanced diet. Adequate intake of necessary nutrients, vitamins, and minerals is important. Consuming selected nutritional supplements is usually of help.

One of the most typical and effective remedies for hair loss is an everyday scalp massage. The blood supply in the scalp is enhanced due to the massage. It is worth noting that nutrients in the scalp are distributed via blood flow; hence, the hair follicles are able to absorb nutrients from improved scalp circulation through the massage. In turn, nourished hair follicles continuously grow healthy hair.

A scalp massage can be done by moving the fingertips in a circular motion, covering all areas of the scalp. There are also electrical massagers available in the market. Using a massager can be of further help.

Loss of hair is also caused as a result of constantly dyeing it. The dye used in coloring the hair contains chemicals which when excessively used, damage the hair to a great extent. Coloring of grey hair with non-chemical substances like henna is therefore advisable.

Hair transplantation is another treatment option. The procedure of transplanting hair involves harvesting hair follicles from the healthy parts of the scalp and transplanting it to the areas where there is less hair growth. The number of individuals choosing hair transplantation has increased over the years. It actually gives very good results if performed by an expert.

With the increase in the number of people suffering from hair loss or baldness, the number of treatments has also grown. However, before going for any treatment, it is always advisable to know the actual cause by consulting a hair care expert or a hair loss professional.

Friday, October 21, 2011

5 Vital Vitamins to Fight Hair Loss

If you’ve been trying out various topical products to regain the thickness or growth of your hair — but none worked — perhaps it’s about time that you try hair regrowth vitamins which can help you attain your desire. The secret to presenting nutritional vitamins for growth of hair comes, partly, from being aware of what naturally boosts new hair growth and follicle health.

The following vitamins will each play a part in developing healthy tresses:


1. B Vitamins

Making sure you have an adequate intake of vitamin B-12 will help new hair growth by maintaining a properly-functioning follicle. When the follicle is healthy, your hair is more capable to continuously grow hair.

Also required for healthy hair regrowth is a superb way to obtain oxygen. B-12 is important to maintain proper oxygen levels inside the blood. If you have good oxygen supply inside the blood vessels round the hair follicle, there exists a better chance for increased hair growth.


2. Vitamin C

Ascorbic acid is often a boon for your body’s defence mechanism, and also beneficial to maintaining oxygen levels within the blood, and thus may help get the circulation of blood to the scalp. The advantage of having a healthy defence mechanism is the fact that several disorders and illnesses may result to baldness. There isn’t any better way to develop healthy hair than caring for oneself to prevent unnecessary baldness.


3. Vitamin E

Vitamin E is one of the best hair regrowth vitamins. Vitamin E contains an antioxidant property and helps the uptake of oxygen in the blood towards the cells of the body. Using Vitamins B-12 and C to boost the volume of oxygen within the blood is extremely good. Vitamin E can increase the amount of oxygen that’s actually feeding your hair follicle.


4. Vitamin A

Vitamin A aids our bodies create sebum, which is essential for healthful hair growth. Lacking the necessary vitamin can cause you to have dry, brittle hair and dandruff. Be cautious, however, because a lot of sebum can actually cause harmful effects to the hair follicle, causing a lot more problems to hair that is struggling to cultivate.


5. Biotin

Technically, biotin is part of the B group of vitamins. An insufficient amount of biotin inside the system could cause dry, brittle hair that appears dull and lifeless. Additionally, it may cause thinning hair. If you suffer from either of the conditions, you could be in a position to increase hair growth by taking a biotin supplement.


Hair growth vitamins are mixed together from the foods we normally eat, but when you're looking to boost the effect of such vitamins, a great supplement will really help.

Friday, October 14, 2011

Herbal Hair Loss Supplements

Herbal supplements to treat hair loss have gained the preference of many balding people since this form of treatment has been proven to be effective and safe to take — that is, no harmful side effects are to be obtained from taking them.

There are numerous herbal hair loss supplements you can take for early balding and even for hair thinning. Horsetail and nettles contain organic silica, which is absolutely essential to maintain hair and cell walls. Most foods are silica deficient due to soil erosion and use of incomplete chemical fertilizers; therefore, nettles and horsetail are best taken in supplemental form.

Saw palmetto is thought to inhibit the enzyme that converts testosterone into destructive dihydrotestosterone. Saw palmetto inhibits 50% of the binding of DHT to receptor sites, blocks the uptake of DHT into the nucleus of cells and inhibits the action of testosterone and 5-alpha reductase, which converts testosterone to DHT. Saw palmetto has also been shown to reduce inflammation, a common factor seen in tissues involved in androgenic alopecia or early balding.

Ginkgo biloba has been proven in many studies to increase blood flow to the scalp’s capillaries. This herb has been reported to inhibit 5-alpha reductase activity as well as protect small blood vessels and micro-capillaries against fragility and loss of tone.

Whether you choose to try herbs for premature balding or conventional hair loss treatments for early balding or take any of the supplements mentioned above, keep in mind that your condition is unique to you and what may work for one person may not work for another.

If you are suffering from early balding, be sure to rule out any other underlying medical condition. Also keep in mind that oftentimes, severe stress, nutritional deficiencies and certain medications can lead to your hair falling out. Before embarking on any hair loss treatment, be sure to understand your particular cause of early balding, and you will have a much greater success rate.

Friday, October 7, 2011

Which Hair Loss Treatment Is Best for You

There are different types of hair loss in men, some of which are more prevalent compared to others. The amount of loss differs from person to person, depending largely on individual genetic makeup. The average male loses between seventy-five and one hundred strands of hair every day, though new hair is typically produced to replace the lost hair. The trouble begins when new growth production lags behind the amount of hair lost.

Regardless of the type, loss in men can affect confidence and the self-image. Fortunately for men today, shaved heads have become quite popular and balding men now find themselves in good company with young and old who appreciate the bold look of a shaved head. Still, there are options for those who don’t want to sport a shaved head. Lucky for those, the market is flooded with products aimed at hair loss treatment for men.

There are plenty of supplements, shampoos and creams that purportedly slow down hair loss. Most supplements and other over-the-counter treatments work by slowing down the rate of loss but don’t help promote new growth. It’s important to carefully review each product, as many don’t have concrete proof of their effectiveness.

Hair transplant is highly effective as a hair loss treatment but this is a surgical procedure. Many men prefer more practical and less painful ways to treat their hair loss problems — especially if they’ve one of the many health plans that don’t cover this type of procedure. Wigs are a non-surgical and quick way to cover hair loss. The downside to wigs is that they can be difficult to get used to, can be expensive and require frequent maintenance.

Which treatment you select will depend on many factors; cost and comfort typically play a large role in the decision. It’s most important to review the benefits and risks associated with each option and make an informed decision based on your personal preferences.

Friday, September 30, 2011

Prevent Hair Damage and Hair Loss: Cosmetic Ingredients for Scalp Care


Image Credit: jupiterimages.com

There are millions who battle some form of hair loss, spending upwards of $3.5 million annually on treatment solutions that oftentimes are ineffective. Though hair loss is commonly due to genetics, it can also stem from unhealthy or aged scalp conditions. Research recently conducted by Rhonda Allison — founder and CEO of Rhonda Allison cosmetics — found many of the cosmetic ingredients used to maintain skin health produce the same rejuvenating benefits when applied to the scalp and hair.

The scalp ages much like the rest of the body’s skin. It loses tone and elasticity, and cell production declines. As the scalp ages, the hair weakens. It is part of the life cycle of the hair follicle, but that lifespan can be extended when the same methods and ingredients for skin care are applied to the scalp.

‘Through research, we now know that many of the ingredients traditionally used in aesthetic treatments also have the power to inhibit the progression of hair damage and loss’, Allison said. ‘Using cosmetic-grade peptides, amino acids, antioxidants, and organic stem cell technology, we can stimulate the mitochondria, support keratin, fight free radicals, and maintain a healthy hair cycle’.

In healthy conditions, hair strands go through three stages – the anagen (active growth) phase, catagen (transition/end of active growth) stage, and the telogen (resting) phase. The hair falls out and is usually replaced by new hair. The cycle continues like clockwork, but as the scalp ages or is affected by a disorder or disease, the cycle can be disrupted.

Factors that can disrupt the cycle and trigger hair loss:

·         disease and illness
·         stress
·         thyroid diseases and hormones
·         nutritional deficiencies
·         medications and surgery

‘Nutrition inside and out is vital to correcting and avoiding disruptions’, Allison said. ‘Internally healthy hair thrives on micronutrients including vitamin B, amino acids and proteins. Externally the hair and scalp need a system of preventative and corrective care that includes cleansing, strengthening, building and restoring’.

Some ingredients that can actively inhibit the progression of hair damage and loss include the following:

·         peptides and amino acids – like extracts from the bark of Indian Kino Tree (Pterocarpus marsupium), they improve hair density, increase the number of follicles, prevent scalp disorders, and stimulate the cells that improve root anchoring and strength;

·         antioxidants – thioctic is a powerful dual antioxidant that maintains protection of extra-cellular proteins, fights free radicals and limits lipid oxidative degradation;

·         vitamin B – an example is inositol, which is part of a complex that stimulates protein biosynthesis and cell vitality, proliferates cell growth and increases energy production;

·         enzymes and proteins – ingredients like Panthenyl Ethyl Ether, Milk Protein and Lactose can stimulate protein biosynthesis and cell vitality, increase energy production in scalp tissue, and anchor hair to the root. Hydrolyzed Lupine Protein also works to slow hair loss and encourage nutrient assimilation to help hair growth.

‘While these ingredients are vital, it’s important to take into consideration ingredient levels and how they are being combined’, Allison said. ‘Just as with skin care formulas, be sure to look beyond ingredient listings and learn what levels are being used and what, if any, research supports the formulation’.