Page 72 - South Mississippi Living - November, 2024

HEALTHY LIVING
SHED NOT!
Combatting Shedding, Breakage,
and Hair Loss
story by Dr. Nickie Harris-Ray
It’s normal to lose some hair strands during your regular grooming routine. Hair shedding and breakage can occur daily, particularly during specific seasons of the year and in certain climates. Usually, hair grows back to maintain a full head. However, unusual hair breakage may occur due to stress, illness, hormones, or aging. Making simple observations and conducting daily assessments can help keep your hair healthy for as long as possible.
Hair shedding is a natural process. Losing about 100 hair strands daily is considered normal for a healthy individual. However, if the loss exceeds the new growth rate, it may indicate hair loss. Several factors can contribute to hair breakage and loss, such as brushing wet hair, using long-hold styling products, tightly pulled hairstyles, chemical treatments, and nutritional deficiencies.
Symptoms of hair breakage and loss may include breakage along the hair shaft, split ends, and dry/frizzy hair. People with specific ethnic heritages may be more prone to hair damage and loss due to the unique structure of curly hair fibers. This can lead to conditions like trichorrhexis nodosa, characterized by hair weakness and breakage.
There are many things that can help you maintain healthy hair and prevent breakage. Prioritizing a balanced diet rich in iron
and protein is helpful, as is effective stress management, avoiding tension-inducing hairstyles, and addressing any underlying medical conditions. Taking care when using hair extensions
or braids, avoiding tight hairstyles, and using alcohol-free hair products (alcohol causes dryness) can further help you to prevent damage and maintain healthy hair.
Remember, if you find these preventive measures ineffective, you are not alone. Seek advice from a dermatologist specializing in hair, skin, and nails. They can provide you with support and guidance by creating a personalized hair care regimen and investigating underlying issues such as fungal infections.
While some hair shedding is normal, excessive breakage and loss can indicate underlying issues. Promoting and maintaining healthy hair requires a healthy lifestyle, mindful hair care practices, and seeking professional advice when needed.
72 | November 2024
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