Hair growth is influenced by various factors, including genetics. While some aspects are out of our control, certain home remedies can promote hair growth and regrowth.
Whether you’re aiming to prevent hair loss or boost hair growth, understanding dietary tips and proper hair care can be beneficial.
However, if hair loss is due to a medical condition, consulting a doctor is advisable for appropriate treatments.
Here are some home remedies that may encourage hair growth:
- Increasing Protein Intake Consuming high-protein foods, such as nuts, helps the body grow new hair since protein is essential for hair growth. A deficiency in protein can lead to hair loss. Healthy protein sources include:
- Beans
- Eggs
- Fish
- Nuts
- Lean meats
- Seeds Your daily protein needs depend on your physical activity level and muscle mass.
- Boosting Iron Levels Iron is crucial for healthy hair growth. Dietary sources of iron include:
- Clams
- Lentils
- Oysters
- Pumpkin seeds
- Spinach
- White beans
- Lean beef
- Turkey Many foods are fortified with iron to enhance their nutritional value. Vegetarians may need up to 1.8 times more iron than meat-eaters, as nonanimal sources are less efficiently absorbed.
- Aromatherapy Aromatherapy can stimulate hair growth, as suggested by a 2011 study. Essential oils that may promote hair growth include:
- Cedarwood
- Lavender
- Rosemary
- Thyme
- Tulsi Mix a few drops of essential oil with a carrier oil like coconut or walnut oil before applying to the scalp. Inhaling these scents might also impact hair growth. Conduct a patch test 24 hours before full application to avoid allergic reactions.
- Scalp Massage Massaging the scalp increases blood flow, potentially encouraging hair growth. A Japanese study found that men who massaged their scalps daily with a device had thicker hair after six months. Use your fingertips to massage the scalp gently or try a scalp massager available in stores.
- Pumpkin Seed Oil Pumpkin seed oil might boost hair growth. A 2014 study found that men taking 400 milligrams of pumpkin seed oil daily for six months saw a 40% increase in hair count, compared to a 10% increase in the placebo group. These men had a history of androgenic alopecia (male pattern baldness).
- Saw Palmetto A two-year study revealed that 320 milligrams of saw palmetto daily could increase hair growth in men with male pattern baldness. The study participants noticed hair growth mainly on the vertex (top and back of the scalp), a common area for bald spots in men.
Causes of Hair Loss
Many experience hair thinning or balding due to aging. Non-age-related hair loss is categorized into scarring and non-scarring. Scarring hair loss, like scarring alopecia, is permanent. Non-scarring hair loss causes include alopecia areata (patchy hair loss) and telogen effluvium, where hair follicles stay in a resting state. Telogen effluvium can result from:
- Childbirth
- Fever
- Inadequate protein intake
- Major surgery
- Severe chronic illness
- Certain medications (antidepressants, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, retinoids)
Prevention
Encouraging hair growth involves avoiding high-heat styling tools and maintaining a nutritious diet while keeping stress levels low. Additional tips include:
- Avoiding hair accessories that cause breakage
- Limiting the use of heat styling tools, bleach, relaxers, and dyes
- Minimizing shampooing or brushing
- Avoiding brushing wet hair or using plastic/rubber hair ties
Treating hair gently can help preserve it and reduce hair loss. However, age-related hair loss may be unavoidable.
When to See a Doctor
Hair loss might not affect overall health but can impact mental well-being and self-esteem. Consult a doctor if you’re concerned about hair loss, especially if you’re taking supplements or have changed your diet and still experience hair loss. A doctor may refer you to a dermatologist for further testing and treatment options.
Summary
While genetics play a significant role in hair growth, maintaining a healthy diet and proper hair care can improve hair thickness and growth. Home remedies may help, but if hair loss persists, seek medical advice.
