Some hair loss, or shedding, is normal. On average, people lose 50 to 100 strands of hair daily. Depending on the cause, certain home remedies, such as scalp massages, herbal treatments, and nutritional changes, might help promote natural hair regrowth.
However, some hair loss is permanent, often due to genetic factors, health conditions, medications, or certain hairstyles and products. This can be emotionally challenging since hair is often a significant part of one’s identity.
This article will explore common causes of hair loss, home remedies, preventive measures, and when to contact a healthcare provider.
Common Causes of Hair Loss
Hair loss can be attributed to various factors, including:
- Genetics (androgenic alopecia)
- Age (slower hair growth with aging)
- Chemotherapy
- Hormonal fluctuations (postpartum or stress-related)
- Damaging hair care products
- Tight hairstyles (traction alopecia)
- Hormonal imbalances (such as PCOS)
- Scalp infections
- Medication side effects
- Scalp psoriasis
- Hair pulling
- Untreated syphilis
- Thyroid disease
- Nutrient deficiencies
- Friction (from tight hats, boots, or socks)
- Exposure to toxins (like arsenic, thallium, mercury, and lithium)
Hair loss is categorized into scarring and non-scarring types. Scarring hair loss, or cicatricial alopecia, is permanent. In primary cicatricial alopecia, an inflammatory process destroys hair follicles.
Secondary cicatricial alopecia results from injuries like burns, infections, radiation, or tumors. Non-scarring hair loss, such as alopecia areata, is caused by an autoimmune disorder and may be treated with home remedies or medical interventions.
Home Remedies for Hair Loss
The good news is several natural home remedies, such as scalp massages, essential oils, and herbs, may help with hair regrowth.
- Massage
A study found that participants experienced increased hair thickness after daily scalp massages for 24 weeks. The stretching involved in scalp massage can alter gene expression and transmit mechanical stress to cells, promoting hair growth.
- Eating More Protein
Increasing your protein intake can help if you want your hair to grow faster naturally. Since hair is composed of keratin, a protein, boosting your protein intake can lead to healthier hair.
- Increasing Iron Intake
Iron supplements can improve hair growth, particularly for those with iron deficiency-related hair loss. However, iron supplementation may interact with some medications, so consult a healthcare provider before starting.
- Aloe Vera
Aloe vera gel applied topically may promote hair growth. Studies have shown that aloe ferox gel, combined with finasteride (a prescription hair loss medication) and oregano oil, can effectively treat alopecia areata.
- Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is widely used for scalp and hair health, particularly in African and Asian countries. It contains biotin, which promotes hair and nail health.
- Viviscal
Viviscal is a supplement that promotes hair growth. Studies have shown that after 90 and 180 days, participants taking Viviscal experienced a significant increase in hair strands, volume, scalp coverage, and thickness.
- Fish Oil
Fish oil supplements, containing omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and antioxidants, have been shown to effectively combat hair loss.
- Ginseng
Research suggests that ginseng can prevent hair loss and promote hair growth by preventing cell death and stimulating the anagen (growth) phase.
- Onion Juice
Phytochemicals in onion juice have potent hair growth–stimulating properties, potentially more effective than conventional treatments like minoxidil and finasteride.
- Rosemary Oil
Rosemary oil has been found to be as effective as minoxidil in promoting hair regrowth for androgenetic alopecia.
- Geranium Oil
Geranium oil extract has been shown to promote hair growth by regulating growth and cellular response.
- Lemon Oil
While some believe lemon oil can strengthen hair follicles and promote growth, evidence supporting these claims is limited.
- Pumpkin Seed Oil
Pumpkin seed oil shows promise in treating hair loss, significantly increasing hair count and thickness.
- Saw Palmetto
Saw palmetto oil has been found to reduce hair fallout and increase hair density.
- Green Tea
Green tea, combined with persimmon leaf extract and sophora fruit extracts, has been shown to significantly increase hair density and diameter.
When to Contact a Healthcare Provider About Hair Loss:
If you’re losing more hair than usual, especially with other symptoms, it’s crucial to contact a healthcare provider. Identifying the root cause of your hair loss is essential for determining the best treatment.
Dermatologists may recommend at-home treatments for mild cases but can also offer more advanced options for severe hair loss, including:
- Medication
- Laser treatment
- Microneedling
- Steroid injections
- Hair transplants
- Platelet-rich plasma therapy
Summary
Many home remedies, including scalp massages, essential oils, and herbs, can help with hair loss. In addition to diet and supplements, adopting a gentle hair care routine can reduce or prevent hair loss.
However, if your hair loss is significant or doesn’t improve with home treatments, consult a dermatologist to determine the cause and explore further treatment options.
