There are a lot of unanswered questions surrounding hair loss. As a result, some pretty obscure and outlandish myths have emerged. But which far-fetched-sounding ideas are true and which are false? Some examples of myths are below, but it’s important that you speak with a Tampa Hair Replacement professional to be sure about the specific causes of your hair loss.
Not True!…
Hair loss and baldness are two different issues. While there are plenty of things that cause temporary hair loss, there are very few actual instigators of baldness.
Your mother is to blame for your bald head.
While the primary baldness gene is on the X chromosome (which comes from mom), there are other factors that affect hair loss. Additionally, baldness is not limited to the maternal side of the family. Studies show that men who have bald fathers are more likely to have hair loss issues than men with hairy fathers.
Wearing a hat all the time causes hair loss.
To cause hair loss, a hat would have to be so tight that it cuts off circulation. A dirty hat, however, can be troublesome. Using a dirty hat can lead to scalp infection, which would cause hair loss. To avoid such a situation, wash or rotate hats regularly.
Using tons of hair products causes hair loss.
No need to avoid the styling products – they don’t cause baldness. Shampoo, washing your hair frequently, and dandruff aren’t to blame either. So slather on all the gel, mousse, and hair spray that you want.
To cure hair loss, stand on your head.
If you have been buying into this myth, the only thing you have accomplished is providing entertainment for family and friends. Granted, standing on your head will increase blow flow to the scalp. But hair follicles need more than just blood to make hair grow.
Using a brush on your hair is better than using a comb.
Excessive brushing leads to split ends, not baldness.
To make your hair grow back thicker, cut it often.
This is a common misconception. Because hair is thicker at the base than it is at the tip, hair will appear thicker after it is cut. In reality, your hair will grow about a half inch each month no matter what you do to it.
People who spend excessive amounts of time in the sun are more susceptible to baldness.
Not true. Tanning beds don’t damage your hair either. Hair loss happens at the follicle level. Therefore, rays would have to penetrate all the way through your hair to do any damage. Ironically, your hair is actually a shield for your scalp.
Coloring your hair causes hair loss.
It is very true that hair coloring products contain chemicals that can seriously damage the hair itself if used improperly. However, there is no truth to the claim that it is an instigator of hair loss.
If you are bald, you are old.
Oh contraire. Hair loss can strike as early as the teenage years. In fact, it is quite common among 20 and 30 year-olds. Sadly, in all probability, the earlier hair loss begins, the more severe it will be.
There is a Little Bit of Truth…
While many ideas may sound far-fetched, there are actually quite a few surprising issues that can cause temporary hair loss.
There is a correlation between hair loss and diet.
While there is no proof that a particular food is beneficial or detrimental to hair growth, a poor diet can affect hair loss. Malnutrition and vitamin/mineral deficiency (specifically iron deficiency) can and do affect hair health.
Trauma and stress can cause hair loss.
Major life events like surgery, excessive amounts of stress, loss of a family member, rapid shifts of weight (loss or gain) and many other situations can cause temporary hair loss.
Hormones affect hair loss.
A hormonal imbalance can cause temporary hair loss. Instances like pregnancy, starting or stopping birth control, and menopause cause dropped locks. But have no fear – once the hormonal imbalance is rectified, hair health will return to normal. Speaking to a doctor about a hair transplant in Tampa will help you determine the causes of your hair loss.
