Say Goodbye to Hair Fall: Natural Home Remedies

Hair loss is often not a cause for concern, although it might occasionally indicate a medical issue. Hair shedding occurs naturally each day. An individual may typically lose up to 100 hairs daily. Nonetheless, some people will continue to lose hair.

 

What Causes Hair Loss?

The most common cause of hair loss is patterned baldness in both men and women which is genetic. However, environmental factors, body changes, medical disorders like alopecia, nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalance, psychological changes, and lifestyle choices like regularly wearing tight hairstyles, food choices, medications, pregnancy, and weight loss can also result in hair loss (1, 2).

With the advancement of technology, hair loss products are increasingly prevalent in the market these days, the majority of which are beneficial. Still, some products contain chemicals that can damage natural hair and increase hair loss. It is advised to avoid hair products that are too harsh to avoid damaging your hair.  

If you are experiencing excess hair fall and need a product to curb this, review the ingredients and select the most suitable product. Also, before using any product, speak with a doctor to learn more about the potential side effects.

Cycle of Hair Growth

There are three stages to the hair growth cycle (3):

1. The Anagen or growth phase: It can extend for years.
2. The catagen phase: Hair stops growing and splits off from the follicle. This happens for about ten days.
3. The telogen or resting phase: Lasts two to three months following hair loss.

Excessive follicle proliferation into the resting phase leads to Telogen effluvium. It is commonly seen in women. This causes baldness and thinning hair.

 

Home Remedies to Control Hair Fall

Hair Mask

Applying a homemade hair mask improves the growth of the hair significantly. Common natural remedies include (4, 5): 

• Onion juice
• Aloe vera
• Amla
• Lemon juice
• Garlic
• Olive oil
• Coconut oil
• Neem juice
• Curry leaves
• Coconut milk
• Egg yolk
• Fenugreek
• Flax seeds 
• Indian gooseberry
• Cinnamon
• Hibiscus
• Beetroot.

 

These are some of the ingredients that help stimulate hair growth and prevent hair fall. The ingredients can be used alone or in combination to form a fine paste. Add coconut, olive oil, or honey to give the hair mask a nice consistency and texture. 

For effectiveness, apply the mask or paste to your scalp and hair and let it sit for 20 to 30 minutes. You could choose to cover your hair with a shower cap. After the set time, rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water. To get visible results, repeat the mask of your choice once weekly.

While no noticeable adverse effects are associated with these remedies, seek medical assistance if you suspect an allergic response or irritation on your face or scalp. 

Scalp Massage 

Massage your scalp in circular motions to improve blood circulation to promote hair growth. Do this before going to bed two or three times a week. You could use coconut, olive or neem oil to massage your scalp.

Routine Washing

Treat your hair by gently washing and brushing regularly. To prevent weighing down the hair, use light shampoo and conditioner. To minimise tangled knots and breakage, try a leave-in conditioner or detangler. Use a microfiber towel to pat dry your hair after a shower.

Stress Management

Stress is another major reason for hair fall. Relax and calm your mind to reduce stressful situations and busy schedules. Engage in activities that relieve stress and spend quality time with yourself daily. Practice yoga, meditation and exercise which directly influence your physical and mental wellbeing. Having a spa or massage, and trying aromatherapy can also help in relaxation.

Adequate Nutrients

In addition to the external treatments, pay attention to their nutrition and vitamin intake to maintain good internal health, which would also aid in promoting hair growth. To maintain hair volume and reduce fall, you should include the recommended amounts of iron, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins (A, B, D and E) and proteins in your daily diet. Proper hydration can improve your hair health too.

Avoid Heat and Harsh Chemicals 

Avoid using styling tools which involve heat. Shield your hair with heat-protectant serums or sprays before using any styling tools. Doing this helps avoid hair damage from excessive heat. Don't try any at-home chemical or colouring products on your hair.

 

What are the Benefits of Natural Remedies?

Coconut Oil

One of the finest natural treatments for hair loss is coconut oil. It can stop protein loss by penetrating deeply into your hair shafts. This minimises hair breakage and damage that is caused by physical trauma from the use of harsh products and hair styling procedures.

Onion

The high sulphur component in onions aids in preventing hair fall. Its antibacterial qualities assist in the elimination of microbes and help in dandruff management, which may trigger hair loss.

Aloe vera

Aloe vera is one of the most powerful natural remedies for hair loss because of its antifungal and antibacterial qualities. Aloe vera contains vitamins A, C, and E, which ensure healthy cell growth and lustrous hair. Furthermore, its alkalising characteristics may help balance the pH of your scalp and hair, to ensure healthy hair development. You can either use aloe vera juice or its gel.

Amla

An ancient natural remedy for hair loss in India is Amla, which can be made at home. It shows the tendency to promote hair growth. It causes the dermal papilla cells in the hair follicles to grow.

Garlic

Garlic has high amounts of sulphur. When garlic and coconut oil are combined, it makes an excellent home remedy for hair loss.

Neem

Neem has various beneficial properties, such as being a natural sedative, antiseptic, antifungal, antibacterial, anti-diabetic, and antiviral. These properties make neem beneficial for treating ailments and are also a great at-home treatment for hair loss.

Fenugreek and Flax Seeds

Fenugreek seeds contain hormone antecedents, nicotinic acid and proteins that help in the regrowth of hair follicles. Flax seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids that stimulate hair growth. These seeds help in internal and external health and are one of the effective natural home remedies.

Curry Leaves

Curry leaves promote hair development and preserve the hair's natural colour.

Egg Yolk

To treat hair loss, you may benefit from the water-soluble peptides in egg yolks, which stimulate hair growth.

 

By: Mithila Mohan (Global Health Professional) 

Edited by: Damilola Elewa