These days, hair loss needs no age. When it strikes, it can cruelly disrupt even a teen’s sense of self-esteem, confidence, and social life.
As a youngster, if you notice signs of hair loss, be rest assured that you are not alone. According to Dr Apoorva Shah and Dr Sonal Shah there is a growing population of boys and girls between the ages of 13 and 22 who experience hair loss. “There are a variety of lifestyle changes that can be undertaken to improve the health of your hair,” they state.
Dr Lakshman Rao, a dermatologist says, “There are so many reasons for hair loss. It can be hereditary, hormonal, nutritional deficiency or stress. I get a lot of patients these days who suffer from hair loss mainly because of stress. It is recommended to take things easy and incorporate yoga and meditation in your daily routine.” He adds that by increasing the intake of fruits and vegetables, hair loss can be curbed.
Ways to prevent hair loss among youngsters
Youth hair loss is something that probably can be averted if some simple steps are implemented in their lives. One of the most important things is proper diet. Proper nutrition is where it all begins and ends if you want to stop hair loss. Do not style wet hair as it’s more prone to stretch and break.
Make sure you are getting enough protein. Hair follicles are composed of protein, vitamins and minerals. Unbalanced diets can cause an increase in hair loss. Make sure that you have enough iron in your diet, particularly if you are a vegetarian. A diet low in protein or iron can cause hair loss in teens. Youngsters who have been diagnosed with anaemia or have an eating disorder are more prone to hair loss caused by a nutritional deficiency.
Make sure you eat foods high in these nutrients, including spinach, fish, lettuce, chicken, eggs, milk, nuts and beans.
Limit the use of heated styling tools. Heat can damage the hair and cause hair loss. Avoid or limit the use of hair dryers, flat irons and curling irons. Chemical treatments, such as perms and hair colouring, should be avoided. Style your hair while it is dry because wet hair is more prone to breakage. Brush your hair gently and avoid pulling at it excessively. Avoid hairstyles that restrict the hair, including ponytails and buns. If you feel any pressure placed on your scalp from your hairstyle, loosen it.
Stop heavy styling. Chemical treatments, such as bleaching or perming the hair, can cause excessive hair damage and hair loss. Even pulling your hair back too tightly can cause noticeable loss along the hair line.
Reduce your stress levels. Excess stress can have an adverse effect on your body, including weight gain and hair loss.