In the journey to grow hair, there are many factors to be mindful of. Understanding your hair, knowing the factors that help promote growth or hinder it, as well as the processes that benefit your hair best are the major culprits. I have covered many of these areas on the blog so far and will continue to present beneficial information to you ladies (and gents) that I have acquired over the years or have come across while researching.
Among the key elements to growing your hair lies protecting your edges. The hairline tends to be very fragile and therefore can be affected by various factors. What nonmedical and non-hormonal factors can cause your hair to thin around the edges you ask?
First is the use of chemicals and thermal styling. This is not strictly related chemical relaxers, though many women reporting hair loss have hair that is chemically straightened. This is not anti-straightening message or an attempt to scare anyone off relaxers. However, chemical treatments hold the risk of damage to the hair follicle. Actually, according to an article printed in the FDA magazine in January-February 2001 issue, chemical straighteners, aka relaxers and hair dyes are among the department’s top complaint area. Obviously hair dyes can present a problem also when used incorrectly. Limit or eliminate the use of these items if you become concerned about your hair and any changes to it. Heat styling, though not a chemical and permanent procedure can result in irreversible damage, so take safety measures when using heating tools as well.
Second, look at your styling choices. If your styles require constant manipulation to your edges, the long term consequence of that could be thinning hair. Ponytails, buns and cornrows are at times associated with receding hair lines. In that instance, choose looser styles and alternate styles. Learn how to create loose buns for example, where you can get the protective benefit for your hairline and ends at the same time or twists the edges of your hair (see pictures).
Third, a poor diet can reflect in the condition of your hair, with some symptoms being hair loss and excessive shedding. If you suspect that your hair problems might be related to what you’re eating, make changes to your diet and observe whether your hair improves as a result of the improvements you’ve made.
Fourth, what are you sleeping on? Satin and silk are your hair’s best fabric. Pamper your hair by sleeping on a satin or silk pillowcase or by wearing a satin/silk scarf at night. The softer fabric causes less friction overnight as your slides across. Plus, it makes for a great night sleep.
This one is also related to sleep. Change sides regularly. Some people only notice that one side is thinning. If you pay close attention, you might realize that it is the side that you sleep on. This is a particularly hard one for me, but I force myself to switch sides and avoid sleep and tear in one area as I had in the past.
What you can do? Well, the first thing is obviously to rectify the behavior you deem at the cause of your thinning edges. Assuming you can pinpoint the exact cause. Next, take proactive steps to remedy the problem. If your hair loss is severe enough to cause you to worry, the first step is to schedule an appointment to see a dermatologist. The jury is still out on whether growth serums help prevent breakage and promote return of hair. Some women swear by them and others feel it is a waste of time and money. There are herbs and essential oils (such as ylang ylang, rosemary, nettles and sage) that have been used historically to promote hair growth and strengthen the hair. Many companies have formulations using these essential oils. You can also research individual ingredients and make your own mix. Essential oils need to be well diluted and should never be applied to the skin prior to dilution, so research, research, research. Also, if you suffer from certain medical conditions or are expecting, there are certain essential oils not recommended for your use. Scalp massages can be useful to help stimulate circulation and help nutrients get to the hair follicles faster. It is also extremely helpful as a means of relaxation, so nothing to lose there. Remember to be gentle whenever you hands get in contact with your hair.
Disclaimer: The information from this post is not meant to diagnose or treat hair loss of any kind. As I mentioned earlier, if you experience severe thinning or hair loss around your edges or elsewhere, schedule an appointment with a dermatologist who can assist you in finding a solution suited for you.
Courtesy of Texture Playground
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