Overview

Hair loss, also known as alopecia, is a common condition that can affect the scalp or the entire body. It can be temporary or permanent and can be caused by various factors such as heredity, hormonal changes, medical conditions, aging, and external insults like burns or trauma. It is normal to lose between 50 and 100 hairs per day due to the growth cycle of hair. There are different types of alopecia such as alopecia areata which is a nonscarring form of hair loss that affects both men and women equally. Treatment options depend on the underlying cause of hair loss.

What are the common causes of hair loss?

Hair loss can be caused by various factors such as heredity, hormonal changes, medical conditions, aging, and external insults like burns or trauma. The most common type of hair loss is androgenetic alopecia which is hereditary and related to age. Hormonal imbalances and excess androgens are also common causes of hair loss. Other potential causes include being slowly poisoned by substances like arsenic, thallium, mercury, and lithium, as well as certain medical conditions like telogen effluvium which results in the loss of more than 200 scalp hairs per day.

How to prevent hair loss

There are several ways to prevent hair loss. Eating a protein-rich diet, taking vitamins, and following the Mediterranean diet can help stop hair loss. Using over-the-counter hair loss medication and trying low-level laser therapy may also be effective. Washing your hair daily with mild shampoo can keep the scalp healthy and clean, which may protect against hair loss. Applying a moisturizing conditioner after every shampoo can also help by coating your strands. Additionally, getting consistent rest, exercising frequently, eating healthy, staying hydrated, and avoiding smoking, drugs, and alcohol can help prevent hair loss.

Hair loss treatment in Ayurveda

Ayurveda offers various natural remedies for hair loss treatment.

Brahmi is a herb that is known to promote hair growth and the thickening of hair.

Ayurvedic therapies like Shirodhara, which involves pouring warm oil on the scalp

Marma, and Abhyanga massages can also help prevent hair loss.

Amla is another common remedy suggested in Ayurveda for hair thinning and hair loss as it is rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants.

Essential oils mixed with carrier oils like coconut oil or sesame oil can be effective in strengthening hair roots.

According to Avanti Ayurveda, oil can be an effective product for hair loss because it has water and earth elements that are both cooling and nourishing.