Hair, also known as the 'crowning glory', is a reflection of a personality. In fact, people can enhance certain aspects of their personality and control the way others perceive them through their hair. And so hair loss can be a bothersome affliction, generating stress and lowering self-esteem, particularly in women. However, if diagnosed at the right time, you can control hair loss with appropriate medication.
What’s Hair Loss in Women?
Hair loss in women occurs when there is an imbalance between the number of hair shed and new hair growth. On average, humans shed between 50 and 100 strands of hair every day. Hair shedding is a natural process in which hair falls out and new hair grows. Hair loss occurs when the balance is disrupted, i.e., more hair falling out and less hair growth. Hair loss is not normal, but hair shedding is part of the hair growth cycle.
Reasons for Hair Fall in Female
There are multiple causes of hair fall, like age factors, hormonal changes, medications, and external factors. Some common reasons for hair fall in females are listed below:
1. Nutritional Deficiencies
Vital mineral deficiencies like iron, copper, zinc, and proteins can be reasons for hair fall in females. Another cause of hair loss is vitamin D deficiency. To prevent this, try to get outside and soak up some sun.
2. Hormonal Changes
Another reason for hair fall in females over 30 years is hormonal imbalances resulting in hair loss. Excessive dihydrotestosterone (DHT) conversion is frequently to blame.
3. Hairstyling
Hairstyles that tug on your roots, such as tight ponytails, braids or cornrows, colouring, and straightening, might trigger hair loss. Damage to hair follicles might result in irreversible hair loss.
4. Medications
Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and the use of medications are reasons for hair fall in females. These can lead to unexpected hair loss, which is sometimes permanent.
5. Thyroid Problems
The hair growth cycle may shift if the thyroid gland produces too much or too little thyroid hormone. Symptoms of thyroid disorders include weight gain or loss, sensitivity to cold or heat, changes in heart rate and hair loss.
6. Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
Women with Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) have a hormonal imbalance that results in more amounts of androgens. This frequently results in changes in hair growth that can be a cause of hair fall.
Causes of Hair Loss in Teenage Females
Hair loss is nowadays affecting teenage girls too. Every age group has some specific causes of hair loss. Here are some of the common causes of hair loss in teenage females:
1. Genetics
Androgenetic alopecia, often known as female-pattern baldness, is a kind of hair loss caused by a genetic mutation. If there is a history of pattern hair loss in the family, teenagers are more susceptible to it.
2. Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder that results in hair loss in specific locations. When the body misidentifies healthy cells as foreign invaders, it attacks them, developing autoimmune disorders. In alopecia areata, the immune system destroys your hair follicles.
3. Malnutrition
Food scarcity, nutrient deficiencies, eating disorders, and digestive issues are possible causes of hair loss that lead to hair fall in teenagers. Vitamin A, vitamin E, zinc, vitamin C, iron, niacin, vitamin D, vitamin E, biotin, folic acid, and selenium deficiencies in nutrients can be causes of hair fall.
4. Autoimmune Diseases
Lupus is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks tissues and organs. This condition may result in joint discomfort, exhaustion, a butterfly-shaped rash, and hair loss.
5. Medication and treatments
Antibiotics, anticoagulants, anticonvulsants, antidepressants, mood stabilisers, antifungal medications, chemotherapy drugs, immunosuppressant drugs, etc., are some of the medications that cause hair loss.
Signs and Symptoms of Hair Fall
Hair shedding is a natural process in which hair that has completed its growth cycle falls out, and new hair grows. However, hair loss occurs when this balance is disrupted, i.e., there is more hair fall, and new hair growth is slowed. But how would you differentiate hair shedding from hair fall?
Here are some signs and symptoms of hair fall:
1. Gradual Thinning From the Hairline
This is the most prevalent symptom of hair loss, in which the hair partition gradually widens, and the hair is gradually thinned from the hairline.
2. Patchy Bald Spots
Patchy hair loss occurs when a section of the scalp is entirely visible with no hair growth. It appears as thinner or absent hair patches, especially on a broader area of your head.
3. Hair Thinning
This is a condition in which a person loses a lot of hair quickly, notably when combing, waking up in the morning, or washing their hair.
4. Excess Hair Shedding
In this case, a person may notice more hair on their hairbrush, the floor, showers, pillows, and in the sink. The scalp may be visible through the hair, and ponytails may be thinner.
How to Stop Hair Fall Immediately at Home for Female
Several simple, inexpensive, and efficient home cures for hair loss exist. Read below to learn how to prevent hair fall with simple home remedies.
1. Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe Vera is an effective home treatment and is essential for balancing the hair and scalp pH levels. Rub the pulp from the aloe vera leaf or stalk it into your hair. Leave it for about 15 minutes before rinsing it with water.
2. Amla (Indian Gooseberry)
Amla is high in Vitamin C, which gives hair follicles power and prevents hair loss. For better results, cook the dried amla in coconut oil. Then, massage it into your hair, and after 20 minutes, rinse with shampoo.
3. Egg mask
Separate one egg white and combine it with a teaspoon of olive oil and honey in a bowl. Use the ingredients to make a paste and apply it from root to tip. Then, rinse the egg mask with shampoo after 20 minutes.
4. Green tea
Green tea is well-known for promoting hair development and preventing hair loss. Apply green tea to your hair as an after-shampoo conditioner twice a week.
5. Organic henna powder
Several generations have tried and tested this hair loss treatment. Henna prevents hair loss and gives your hair a lovely brown-red hue. Make a paste with organic henna powder and apply it from the roots to the tips of your hair. Make sure the paste covers your hair and scalp fully. Apply a shower cap and wait two hours before shampooing as usual.
6. Fenugreek (Methi) seeds
Fenugreek is a powerful natural remedy that works wonderfully as a hair fall control tip. It promotes hair growth and aids in the reconstruction of hair follicles. For this, overnight, soak the methi seeds in water and ground them into a spreadable mixture in the morning. Then apply the paste starting from the roots. Allow 40 minutes before rinsing with cold water.
7. Coconut Cream
Coconut milk is high in fats, proteins, and minerals like potassium, which benefit hair growth and hair fall prevention. Grate the coconut and squeeze the milk from it. Then apply the milk to your scalp and rinse it off.
8. Honey and Greek Yoghurt
Greek yoghurt is known as a natural hair conditioner. It is rich in proteins and Vitamin B5. Honey has antibacterial properties that prevent your hair from being damaged. Hence, mix 2 tablespoons of greek yoghurt with one tablespoon of lemon and honey. Then, apply and rinse thoroughly with cold water after 30 minutes.
9. Coconut Oil for Massage
Coconut oil has antibacterial and antioxidant characteristics that can help prevent scalp infections while strengthening your hair. Start massaging your scalp in circular strokes with slightly heated coconut oil.
10. Olive oil Massage
Olive oil can be used to deep condition hair and protect it from damage caused by dryness. Olive oil is a key component of many diets and may help prevent genetic hair loss. You can massage olive oil directly into your hair.
11. Neem Leaves
Neem leaves have antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory qualities that aid in dandruff removal. It also strengthens the hair follicles and encourages hair growth. For best results, boil 10-12 neem leaves in water until the water comes to half its original volume and then apply the mixture to your scalp.
12. Beetroot leaf juice
Beetroot is high in vitamins B6, C, Folate, magnesium, betaine, and potassium, which are necessary for healthy hair. Therefore, boil 7-8 beetroot leaves in water until the water level drops to half its original volume. Then, grind leaves with 1 tablespoon of henna and apply this paste thoroughly to the hair. Later on, wash it off with water after 20 minutes.
13. Hair Routine
A healthy hair routine is simple but provides as many benefits as other hair fall control tips. Simple hair washes with a gentle shampoo will keep your scalp clean and prevent infections. Moreover, combing your hair as soon as you get out of the shower is one of the common blunders people make. Instead, towel-dry your hair before using a wide-toothed comb to comb it.
Additionally, the advantages of frequent hair massage cannot be overstated, just like the benefits of regular hair washing.
14. Stop Drinking and Smoking
One of the most common reasons for hair loss is alcoholic beverages. Smokers also experience abnormal hair fall due to decreased blood supply to the scalp.
15. Hydration
Staying hydrated and consuming at least 6-8 glasses of water every day can help you avoid hair fall. You can also drink fruit juices that are simple to prepare at home.
16. Manage Your Stress
Stress levels have been demonstrated to have an impact on hair health. Therefore, taking care of your mental health during difficult times might become one of the most effective ways to prevent hair loss.
17. Engage in Physical Activity
One of the simplest home remedies for hair loss and restoration is to add physical activities to your daily routine. Regular morning walks, running, yoga, or participating in outdoor activities will keep you active and healthy.
How to Prevent Hair Fall
The effect of Hair fall is not only cosmetic; it can also impact self-esteem and confidence. Here are some tips on how to prevent hair fall in women.
1. Mediterranean Diet
According to a 2018 study, a Mediterranean-style diet rich in raw vegetables and fresh herbs may minimise the likelihood of androgenic alopecia (female or male pattern baldness) or delay its development.
2. Protein
The major protein found in hair follicles is keratin. A 2017 research of 100 persons with hair loss found that they were deficient in various nutrients, including amino acids, the building blocks of protein.
3. Vitamin A
Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin essential for Retinoids. It has been demonstrated to speed up hair growth. This vitamin may also help with sebum production, allowing the scalp to stay healthy and grow more hair. Sweet potatoes, sweet peppers, and spinach are a few sources of vitamin A.
4. Multivitamins
Vitamins A, B, C, D, iron, selenium, and zinc are all necessary for hair growth and the maintenance of healthy hair. You can acquire these micronutrients by following a healthy diet. If the deficiency is very high, talk to an expert.
5. Biotin
Biotin, often known as vitamin B7, is required for fatty acid production. It is necessary for hair growth. In roughly three to four months after starting a biotin supplement program, you should see an improvement.
The next section will highlight how to prevent hair loss for teenage girls.
How to Prevent Hair Loss for Teenage Girls
Addressing the causes of hair loss in teenage females can prevent hair loss in them. Hair loss can be prevented by the following hair fall these control tips:
- A well-balanced diet may aid in improving the health of the hair roots. Hair can be strengthened with vitamins, minerals, iron, and protein-rich diets.
- When combing, brushing, or washing your hair, be gentle with your hair.
- Make sure to use a sulphur-free mild shampoo and condition your hair gently.
- Avoid using hair products that are too harsh as they might cause split ends and breakage.
- To avoid long-term damage, limit the use of hairstyling treatments, flat irons, and curlers sparingly.
- Dry your hair naturally rather than using a high-heat blow dryer.
What to Eat to Stop Hair Fall Immediately
We know diet is essential in controlling hair fall. So, here is the list of what to eat to stop hair fall immediately.
1. Eggs
Eggs are high in protein and biotin, which help strengthen hair. Protein is, in reality, the building block of your hair. Biotin stimulates keratin production. As a result, eggs are an excellent complement to your diet for stopping hair fall.
2. Carrots
Carrots are a great source of vitamin A. They are incredibly nourishing for the scalp and help keep your hair nourished from the roots to the tips, making them an excellent addition to your summer diet to prevent hair loss.
3. Oats
They are high in critical elements like iron and zinc and are a good source of fibre. Oats are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These are known as polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and are necessary for maintaining skin and hair health.
4. Spinach
Spinach is a crucial food for preventing hair loss since it is high in vitamins and nutrients like folate, iron, vitamin A, and vitamin C, all of which are necessary for hair growth.
5. Prunes
Prunes are a good source of iron. Take them as a midday snack or add them to your breakfast to maintain hair health and thickness.
6. Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are high in beta-carotene and are essential for absorbing vitamin A. Hair thickness and sebum production requires vitamin A.
7. Nuts
Calcium is an essential mineral for hair development. Combining a few nuts, such as walnuts and flaxseeds, can provide zinc and omega-3 fatty acids.
8. Avocado
Avocados contain a lot of vitamin E. A medium avocado provides around 21% of your daily Vitamin E requirements. Vitamin E has antioxidant properties that help maintain a healthy scalp and hair and aid in hair growth. The vitamin's antioxidant properties may help to reduce oxidative stress and free radicals that lead to the breakdown of hair follicle cells on the scalp.
9. Sunflower Seeds
Sunflower seeds are high in Vitamin E, zinc, and selenium, making them one of the most beneficial diets for preventing hair loss. An ounce of sunflower seeds provides nearly half of your daily Vitamin E requirements. Vitamin E has antioxidant qualities that aid hair growth and maintain a healthy scalp and hair.
10. Beans
Beans are one of the most protein-dense plant foods, with high levels of zinc, iron, biotin, and folate. Because hair follicles are largely formed of protein, including protein is essential for hair development. Zinc aids hair growth and preserves the oil glands surrounding the hair follicles.
11. Meat
There is nothing that compares to meat in terms of protein and iron. Iron aids red blood cells in efficiently delivering oxygen to hair follicles resulting in hair growth.
12. Chickpeas and Lentils
Lentils and chickpeas are high in folic acid, which helps the body manufacture more red blood cells. Red blood cells carry haemoglobin. This transports oxygen to your body's cells for growth and repair, including those that encourage hair growth. As a result, it is critical for hair development and strength.
13. Kiwi
Kiwi, which is high in Vitamin C, can aid in iron absorption, boosting hair growth and reducing hair loss.
14. Rajma or black beans
Rajma is a good source of protein and folate, important for hair growth. It's also a good source of fibre. This is your go-to superfood if you have thinning hair.
To maintain a healthy balance, avoid foods that cause hair loss, like sugars, junk food, foods with a high glycemic index, and sodas. Read the next section to learn how to regrow thinning hair for females.
How to Regrow Thinning Hair for Female
We cannot control our DNA, but we can influence our lifestyle. These modifications and some hair fall control tips may help your thinning hair regenerate.
Stress is the most significant lifestyle factor that causes hair thinning. Stress-reduction practices, such as meditation, yoga, going to the gym, or adopting a mantra, can help reduce hair fall and promote overall well-being.
As discussed earlier, hair loss can also be due to deficiencies in iron, biotin, zinc, and magnesium. Ensuring that the body receives the daily required amount of vitamins and minerals with supplements can help reduce hair loss, strengthen hair shafts and promote hair regrowth in females.
A daily massage with rosemary, peppermint, thyme, and lavender in jojoba or grapeseed oil mixture demonstrated improvement in regrowing the thinning hair.
Hair Fall Control Tips
Here are some simple hair fall control tips.
- Wash your hair according to the season and hair type. Hair should be cleaned more frequently in hot and humid weather to eliminate sweat, dirt, and oil deposits.
- If you have an oily scalp and hair, wash your hair thrice a week. If you have a dry scalp and hair, wash your hair twice a week. Hair washing has become important to remove chemical air contaminants. It is essential to choose the appropriate products. Harsh products disrupt the acid-alkaline balance. They stimulate the scalp even more, resulting in dead cells and dandruff buildup.
- If your hair is greasy, avoid using creamy conditioners and use a hair rinse or serum.
- Focus on a nutritious diet. Every day, eat a bowl of fresh sprouts.
- Drink plenty of water if your scalp is greasy or if you have dandruff.
- Yoga, deep breathing, and relaxation techniques aid in stress reduction and hence, hair loss prevention.
Foods That Cause Hair Loss
The nourishment your hair receives depends on the foods you consume. Contrary to common assumptions, many seemingly healthful foods may not be so healthy. Let's take a look at the foods that cause hair loss.
1. Dairy products
Dairy products have a certain amount of fat. Fat has the primary consequence of increasing testosterone levels in the body, which is one of the causes of hair loss in females.
2. Sugars
Consuming high amounts of sugar can affect blood circulation. When your circulation is compromised, it becomes harder for your blood to reach your hair follicles, causing hair loss.
3. Refined Carbohydrates
Bread, cakes, pasta, pizzas, and other refined carbs interfere with your stress defences. If you're already suffering from stress-related hair loss, these meals won't help.
4. Greasy Food
When you overload your body with oil, the sebum becomes greasy. The grease covering your hair follicle makes it difficult for your hair to grow.
5. Carbonated Beverages
Carbonated drinks interact with the insulin in your bloodstream, making it less receptive to sugar. This causes a rise in sugar in your bloodstream, which impedes blood circulation, resulting in hair loss.
6. Alcohol
Alcohol dehydrates your hair. When your hair lacks the necessary moisture, it becomes brittle and damaged.
Summing Up on How to Stop Hair Fall Immediately at Home for Female
Hair fall is not rare nowadays. Hair shedding beyond 100 hair strands a day with visible scalp and thinning volume is a serious hair fall issue that needs treatment. The major causes of hair fall include a poor diet, nutrient deficiencies, inadequate hair care, wrong hair products, excess hair styling, and medications can be the cause of hair fall.
Hair fall can be managed by some simple home remedies, including green tea, aloe vera gel, methi paste, coconut oil, multivitamins, and biotin supplements that can help with hair fall. Adding foods like kiwi, beans, lentils, meat, egg, carrots, oats, spinach, prunes, and sweet potatoes can improve hair fall.
As much as adding healthy food is important, avoiding food that can worsen hair fall is essential. In addition, it is imperative to follow proper hair care, regular hair wash and use mild hair care products to get rid of hair fall immediately.
FAQs
Why Is My Hair Falling So Much?
The natural hair cycle causes most people to lose 50 to 100 hair per day, with more on days when they wash their hair. Hair loss can be caused by stress, a poor diet, underlying medical conditions, surgery, giving birth, having a high fever, and recovering from an illness can all be stressful experiences causing hair fall.
Which Deficiency Causes Hair Fall?
Hair structure and growth may be affected by nutritional deficiencies. Hair loss can be caused by a deficiency of iron, zinc, niacin, selenium, vitamin D, vitamin A, vitamin E, folic acid, biotin, and amino acids. You can have minerals and vitamin levels tested to know specifically which deficiency is causing hair fall for you.
Does Hair Grow Back After Falling Out From Roots?
The hair follicle is the structure that houses the hair bulb and hair. It is a tube-like structure in the epidermis or outer layer of your skin. Each hair follicle is connected to a sebaceous gland, which secretes sebum, an oily material. Hair falling out from roots may temporarily harm your follicle, but a new bulb will emerge. Thus, Yes, your hair does grow back after falling out from the roots.
Does Sweating Cause Hair Loss?
Yes, hair loss can be due to excessive sweating. Sweat, which is a mixture of water and natural oil, can clog your hair follicles and affect the natural hair development cycle. Excess oil on the scalp and dirt can clog hair follicles and cause hair loss.
Does Exercise Cause Hair Loss?
Yes, excessive exercise and a lack of nourishment can cause hair loss. Too much exercise over time can cause your body to enter a chronic state of stress, leading to a condition known as Telogen effluvium, leading to hair loss.
Why Did My Hair Fall Increase After Using Onion Juice?
Onion juice contains too much sulphur, which causes discomfort and scratching. Continuous scalp scratching might lead to weakening hair roots. The result is hair loss or inflamed hair roots.
References
A Review of the Use of Biotin for Hair Loss - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28879195/
Mediterranean diet: fresh herbs and fresh vegetables decrease the risk of Androgenetic Alopecia in males - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29181579/
Diet and hair loss: effects of nutrient deficiency and supplement use - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5315033/
