Intro: Hair-fall is a persistent issue that most of us have to deal with. Be it hormonal imbalance, lifestyle or diet, here are some of the questions answered for you that you have been wanting to ask!
Hair-fall affects most of us, if not all. Pollution, lifestyle habits, diet, etc, shapes up the health of our scalp and hair. But how do we keep up and maintain healthy hair with our rigorous work routines and busy lives? We have Dr Navjot Singh Arora, MBBS, MD, Dermatology and Cosmetologist, one of Delhi’s most respected dermatologists near me, talk about the questions that are on our minds.
Question: What is hair-fall? Why does it happen?
Answer: Any excessive shredding of hair that was previously not there. But, losing 70-100 strands a day is completely normal. Anything beyond that can be considered a problem. Also, if you see the width of the parting line increasing, then too you should consult a doctor.
Hair-fall can be caused due to numerous reasons in females. However, according to studies hormone (age related factors) changes is the most common reason in males. For example, in females iron deficiency, vitamin deficiency and micronutrient deficiency are the most common reasons.
Q: Why does hair-fall increase during pregnancy?
A: The hair-fall that occurs during or after pregnancy is due to hormonal changes that are reversible after 3-4 months. During this period nutritional treatments are far more beneficial than medical treatments. If hair-fall persists after 6 months of pregnancy, only then medical treatments are encouraged.
Q: As a skin specialist near me, what are the different types of hair-fall that are treated through Homeopathy?
A: Under Homeopathy, the root cause is found out before initiating any treatment. Also density, reducing the thinning of hair and strengthening the hair, are also done through Homeopathy by managing the diet of the patients.
Q: How does Ayurveda deal with hair-fall? How does it deal with pregnancy induced hair-fall?
A: According to Ayurveda, a period of 18 months is prescribed for a females after child delivery in order to recover the nourishment of the body. Within this period nutrition values are required for the mother, like having ghee in her meal to recover from pregnancy induced hair-fall.
Q: Does taking Biotin for a long time have any side effects?
A: Although taking Biotin for long periods of time does not have any side effects but it is not required to take it without prescription of a doctor because it is not solely responsible for hair growth. A period of three months is sufficient for Biotin for hair to work. Beyond that a consultation from doctor is a must.
Q: My hair is thin and I have PCOD. Any tips for regaining healthy hair?
A: It is always suggested for a PCOD patient to lose weight, a good protein diet is required. This also helps for nutrition of hair. In case of any other problem related to PCOD, hormonal medicines are also prescribed.
Q: What is the role of oils in hair loss?
A: Application of oil for hair massage is very necessary through Ayurvedic oil and it is recommended for strengthening of hair and improving blood circulation. Putting oil after hair-wash is necessary and recommended instead of putting oil before hair-wash. Also, coconut oil is also very useful for everyone. However, if the issue of hair-fall persists then a consultation with doctor is recommended.
Q: How can premature hair graying be prevented?
A: A balance of diet and lifestyle is required. Reducing junk food intake, high spices intake in daily foods and application of various prescribed oils and medication can reduce further graying of hair.
Q: How frequently should I wash my hair?
A: Twice a week hair wash with lukewarm water is recommended for an average human with at least half an hour oiling would prevent hair-fall.
Q: Does anti-dandruff shampoo actually work?
A: If the anti-dandruff shampoo helps in reducing dandruff and hair-fall both, then it is prescribed to use it. In case dandruff is not getting controlled then you must visit a dermatologist.
Q: What is Keratin Shampoo and how effective it is for hair-fall?
A: One should not use Keratin Treatment Shampoo without consulting a doctor as that might damage your hair and its roots.
Q: Is smoothing and rebounding same? How should one stop hair-fall after rebounding or straightening?
A: Smoothing is a temporary process while rebounding is more of a permanent thing. Although a lot of people have stated that their hair-fall increased afterwards, a good consultation from a doctor can help one recover faster.