Receding hairlines and baldness are not just related to age anymore. Various lifestyle changes, dietary habits, consumption of alcohol and smoking, chemical-based shampoos etc., are contributing to hair loss. Both men and women are equally experiencing hair loss. Since age is no longer a factor, many youngsters face image crises due to hair fall. Thanks to advanced hair restoration techniques, anyone can now hope to get back their fuller-looking hair. But there are many myths about hair loss, especially male pattern baldness. This blog will clear up those myths and ensure you have accurate information handy so that you don’t have to worry about all those false alarms.
Myth 1: Hats cause hair fall
FALSE. It is often assumed that we are not allowing hair to “breathe” by wearing a hat, i.e. the scalp will not get enough oxygen. However, the oxygen for the hair follicles is supplied through the bloodstream and not from the air surrounding the hair. So style up yourself with trendy hats. Another important benefit is that you can temporarily cover up any receding hairline or bald spots yet look very fashionable.
Myth 2: Hair loss stays forever
Partially true. Male pattern baldness as a result of the genetic condition is irreversible. But that is not the only reason for men to develop baldness. Various factors such as hormonal changes, eating disorders, medication and some treatments also cause hair loss. This type of hair loss is usually temporary and can be rectified by making suitable changes to your lifestyle or adjusting your medication.
Myth 3: Hair loss is a result of stress
ONLY PARTIALLY TRUE. There are two aspects to consider here. Normal stress is not linked to hair loss. But, when there are big traumatic events, research says that the hair goes into a resting phase, which means the hair follicles pause from growing. Patchy hair loss is the result of such traumatic events. This type of hair loss is temporary, So don’t worry that if you have a demanding job, a busy schedule etc., it might result in hair loss.
Myth 4: Baldness affects elders
FALSE. Men with a family history of hair loss experience male pattern baldness as early as in their twenties. Though it doesn’t immediately show up externally, the person himself will feel it. Sometimes by the time men reach their 30’s the change is quite visible.
Myth 5: Mother’s genes are responsible for genetic hair loss
FALSE. If male pattern baldness is a result of genetics, it can be passed on from either side of the family. But is a very common misconception that only the mother side of the family contributes to baldness.
Myth 6: Only men suffer from hair loss
FALSE. Around 40% of hair loss sufferers are women, but how hair loss manifests in women is different from that of men. In men, it typically starts at the top of the head and recedes along the hairline, and sometimes just a few patches of hair would be left at the back of the head. Women do not experience this kind of receding hairline, but their hair gradually becomes thinner to the point that only a few strands of hair will be left.
Myth 7: Testosterone is more in bald men
FALSE. This is probably the most incorrect myth out there about baldness. It has been well researched that the testosterone levels of both bald men and men with thick locks of hair are the same. But that doesn’t mean hormones don’t play a role in hair loss, but the hormone responsible is not testosterone but is DHT. Excess DHT hormone causes hair loss.
Myth 8: Too much hair wash causes hair loss
FALSE. Most people observe losing hair strands while taking a shower and the immediate thought is that too much hair wash is causing hair loss. But know that some portion of the hair regenerates after falling. Hair goes dormant for a while and then grows again, which is normal.
MYTH 9: Take vitamins to promote hair growth
FALSE. The actual strands of hair, in reality, are dead tissue. So too much intake of vitamins or applying vitamin-filled lotions are not going to affect any hair growth. If non-surgical hair loss treatments are not working, talk to a hair restoration expert. Long-term usage of non-surgical treatments becomes expensive very fast, especially if you use vitamin lotions/oils, etc.
Myth 10: Cut hair often for it to grow fuller
FALSE. This is another common with that if you cut the hair, it grows faster and longer. Keeping your hair short or long is more or less style preference than to do with hair growth. Receding hairline or bald spots are most likely not going to go away on their own. So if you want to cover the bald spots, talk to a hair restoration expert.