As autumn arrives, dry weather triggers various bodily reactions, including hair loss. Many people hope to improve this condition by using shampoos claiming to strengthen hair and prevent hair loss. In reality, both this perspective and approach are incorrect.So what are the correct methods to prevent excessive hair loss in autumn?
Autumn brings changes in hair metabolism leading to hair loss
The average person has about 100,000 hair follicles on their scalp. Each hair has a growth phase lasting 2 to 4 years, during which it grows approximately 1 centimeter per month. After this phase, the hair enters a resting phase and naturally sheds after several weeks, with a new hair growing from the follicle.Under normal circumstances, losing 50 to 125 hairs per day is considered healthy. However, if you notice more than 50 hairs on your pillow upon waking, experience significant shedding while combing, or observe thinning hair, this may indicate abnormal hair loss.
During the transition from summer to autumn, hair follicles suffer damage from summer's UV exposure and high temperatures. As autumn brings cooler temperatures and lower humidity, the scalp dries out. This accelerates follicle contraction, causing malnourished or severely damaged follicles to atrophy. They may produce only fine hair or cease growth altogether, leading to progressively thinner hair and, in severe cases, hair loss.
Frequent shampooing worsens hair loss, not cures it
Many people, after experiencing hair loss, mistakenly believe that using shampoos marketed for strengthening hair or preventing hair loss will improve their condition. Consequently, they increase the frequency and intensity of their shampooing. This approach is fundamentally flawed. Frequent washing strips away the natural oils secreted by the sebaceous glands, depriving the scalp and hair of their protective barrier. This disruption actually exacerbates hair loss.Generally, washing hair once or twice a week is sufficient during autumn. Avoid using anti-oil or anti-dandruff shampoos, minimize alkaline shampoos, and use conditioner more often. Occasionally adding salt or vinegar to the water can help prevent and reduce hair loss. Shampoo temperature should be neither too hot nor too cold, and massage the scalp while washing.
Effective Hair Loss Prevention Through Proper Care Methods
1. Comb hair thoroughly before washing. This removes dirt from strands, brings sebum to the surface to form a natural protective layer, and prevents tangles that can cause hair loss.
2. Rinse with cool water after washing. Excessively hot water dries out the scalp and hair. Wash with lukewarm water around 39°C (102°F), then rinse strands with cool water to close cuticle scales and protect hair.
3. Use warm air on the scalp, cool air on the strands.Hair dryers can damage hair cuticles, leading to dryness. Minimize their use. If necessary, dry the scalp on a low heat setting, then switch to cool air to dry the strands. 4. Wear your hair down whenever possible. Ponytails can weaken hair roots, contributing to hair loss and receding hairlines. Letting hair down allows it to grow freely without restriction.
5. Use a silk pillowcase. Silk pillowcases minimize static electricity and have a smooth surface that reduces friction on hair. Compared to cotton or synthetic pillowcases, they cause the least damage to hair.
6. Avoid combing wet hair. Wet hair is fragile and most vulnerable to damage from pulling or friction.Avoid combing after washing. If ends tangle, gently separate them with a wide-tooth comb, then let hair air dry naturally.
7. Blot dry with an old cotton T-shirt. Rough towels or those with low absorbency can damage hair through vigorous rubbing. Instead, gently pat hair with a clean, old cotton T-shirt to absorb moisture, then let it air dry.