Hair loss: Common shower habits could encourage hair thinning – ‘be cautious’ warns doctor

Nioxin speak to women about their experiences with hair loss

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Hair loss can occur as a result of heredity, hormonal changes, medical conditions or simply as a normal part of ageing. However, according to a doctor, there could be some personal habits that are contributing to thinning hair.

In particular, certain shower-time behaviours could be weakening your hair or even increasing the risk of hair loss over time.

Dr Earim Chaudry, medical director at men’s health platform Manual, pointed out that both the process of washing your hair, as well as brushing it after can be detrimental in certain circumstances.

In the winter months, hopping into a steaming shower can be irresistible, but according to the medical expert, the toasty temperatures could cause chaos for your locks.

He said: “While there is no medical evidence that hot showers contribute to hair loss, it is still important to be cautious.

“This is because taking a really hot shower may have the power to strip the scalp of the essential oils that help to protect it.

“This can cause dryness, inflammation and could also result in the thinning of your hair.”

Additionally, experts from Health Shots state that using hot water on your hair regularly can make it brittle and porous, leading to increased breakage and hair loss.

Furthermore, hot water has the potential to open up skin pores making hair roots weaker, which may also heighten the risk of shedding.

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The type of shampoo you use on your hair may also be to blame.

Mr Chaudry said: “Regularly washing your hair with shampoos that are free from sulphates, parabens and mineral oils will prevent hair loss.

“By washing your hair with mild shampoos, you are keeping the scalp clean and lowering the risk of infections that may result in hair breakage or loss.”

Once out of the shower, it is also important you take precautions to look after your flowing locks.

Mr Chaudry advises refraining from brushing wet hair, where possible.

He said: “Your hair is in its weakest state when wet, so it’s best to avoid brushing wet hair if you are aiming to reduce hair loss.

“There is also a danger of brushing your hair too frequently, as doing this could increase the chances of your hair becoming injured, encouraging further loss.”

Once dry, the medical expert recommends reconsidering how you’re styling and wearing your hair on a day-to-day basis.

He said: “Hairstyles such as ponytails and braids tend to pull hair or tug hair follicles, which could eventually lead to baldness.

“As well as this, regularly using tools such as blow dryers and straighteners can cause thermal damage to your hair.

“Down the line, this will lead to breakage and result in hair loss.

“With this in mind, it may be time to think about healthier and less damaging ways to style your hair if you prefer a longer style.”

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