Hair loss is more common than many people think. It can happen at any stage of life and for a multitude of reasons, with underlying issues such as hormonal imbalances, thyroid issues, alopecia and stress resulting in hair growth problems.
If you are suffering from hair loss, it’s important to recognise that you’re not alone. A recent study found that 35 million men and 21 million women suffer from hair loss. The result isn’t just a loss of hair for many.
Hair loss can be upsetting, with low confidence and depression commonly experienced. But there is hope, with scientific research increasing into the slowing and even the complete reversal of hair loss, there are more ways than ever to counter the issue. Here, we look at 24 ways to avoid hair loss for men.
1. Keep it clean
Hair maintenance requires just as much care and attention as the rest of your beauty regime. Keep your hair and scalp clean with regular washing to limit the chances of dandruff and infection. Both can cause hair breakage, leaving you with fewer follicles, damaged hair, and less volume.
2. Use aloe vera
Your choice of shampoo can help with the fight against hair loss. Men with oily hair will want to try an aloe vera and neem oil based product to make hair less oily and itchy. Aloe vera and neem can also be used to treat scalp conditions like dandruff.
3. Enrich with vitamins
The condition of your hair is a reflection of the vitamins, minerals and other nutrients your body receives.
Our hair growth vitamins provide 22 extra-strength micronutrients to ensure both your hair and scalp have all they need to stay in tip top condition. Our vitamins are the product of years of scientific research and testing, and have already helped countless people from around the world get the healthy, strong, and thick hair they’ve been looking for.
4. Add more protein
The protein content of your diet matters. Your hair is made from a protein called keratin, which needs a little boost courtesy of your diet. Livestrong reveals more about where you can find the protein you need to improve hair health:
“Nutritious sources of lean protein include fish, eggs, chicken, dairy, nuts, legumes, quinoa and beans; together they'll provide the complete proteins your body needs to perform normal functions, including hair growth. Friendly reminder: A serving size of animal protein isn't very large — about three ounces, or the size of a deck of cards, in most cases.”
5. Don't forget plant protein
People with vegetarian or vegan diets don’t have to miss out on the essential protein they need. Several plant-based foods are protein-rich, including asparagus, quinoa, chia seeds, kale, and buckwheat.
6. Eat your greens
Green vegetables - such as spinach, are essential sources of iron, vitamin D, and other hair growth boosting nutrients.
7. Start the day with oats
Oats are a source of soluble fibre, which works to improve your body’s insulin sensitivity, making it one of the best foods for hair growth. Insulin resistance is a leading cause of hair loss in both men and women, which makes starting the day with a bowl of oatmeal particularly beneficial.
8. Massage your scalp
Scalp massages shouldn’t be reserved for spa trips. A regular scalp massage can provide the stimulation you need to keep your hair follicles active. As well as improving circulation, regular scalp massage has been proven to reduce stress, another primary cause of hair loss. Massage can be performed on wet or dry hair, with just three minutes per day is said to have a positive effect.
9. Apply essential oils
Want to make your scalp massage even more indulgent and beneficial? Add essential oils. Use of essential oils has been proven to increase circulation and improve the condition of your scalp. Cedarwood, lavender, rosemary, and thyme are all great options.
10. Change your brushing habits
Brushing your hair too regularly can cause untold damage and breakages, especially if you brush vigorously, or brush your hair when it’s wet. Combing your hair, preferably with a wide-toothed comb, is much kinder. Using your fingers to detangle your hair when wet is even better.
11. Let your hair dry naturally
Instead of rubbing your wet hair with a towel, let it dry naturally to keep your locks in the best possible condition.
12. Just add juice
Sometimes the best hair loss treatments are home remedies. You may already have the ingredients you need to avoid hair loss in your kitchen.
Detox juices aren’t just for internal use. They can be used externally on your hair and scalp to garner fantastic results. Juices made from garlic, onion, or ginger are the most effective. Simply rub the juice into your scalp, leave to dry overnight and rinse in the morning. You’ll see a difference with regular use after just one week.
13. Reach for the tea
People have seen similar results with green tea. Simply steep two bags of green tea in a single cup of water and leave to cool. The brew can then be applied to your hair and scalp. This mixture should be washed out after one hour.
14. Stay hydrated
Getting your eight glasses of water a day is great for your health and well-being for a number of reasons. Your hair and scalp will also benefit from great hydration, particularly as the follicle shaft itself is made of up to 25% water.
Water isn’t just great for hair growth. It lubricates to turn dry and brittle hair into luscious, moisture-rich locks. Drinking more water will improve the vitality of your scalp and roots too, preventing common hair issues such as dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis.
15. Quit smoking
There are numerous lifestyle changes you can make to improve hair health. Stopping smoking is one of them. Smoking can limit blood flow to the scalp and subsequently cause poor hair growth.
16. Exercise more
Getting regular exercise is about more than keeping in good shape. Doing at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise (i.e. brisk walking, swimming or cycling) will help your body regulate hormone levels, keep stress to a minimum, and ultimately lower the chances of hair loss.
17. Drink less alcohol
Your alcohol intake can have a detrimental effect on your hair’s health. Reducing or eliminating alcohol will ensure your hair can thrive.
18. Keep stress levels low
Stress is a part of everyday life, but keeping stress levels manageable is the key to preserving your hair. Stress has long been a common cause of hair loss, a fact that makes it even more important to manage stress levels. Meditation and yoga can help restore some sanity and make high stress levels a thing of the past.
19. Invest in a bandanna
People who regularly ride bicycles or motorcycles have more hair problems to deal with. Helmets increase sweat production, particularly during the summer months. This sweat can cause a build-up of oil or dandruff, which can result in hair loss.
Prevent excess sweating from becoming a problem by donning a bandanna or scarf on your next ride. Your sweat will absorb into the material, instead of accumulating on your scalp.
20. Don’t over-style your hair
There are countless styling products and devices, but going au naturel every now and again will give your hair the break it needs from continuous drying and heating.
Whether you’re a hair straightening enthusiast, your curlers are your best friend or it’s the hair dryer that’s a constant feature in your life, avoiding frequent styling with heat will ensure your hair stays stronger. The effects of heat can be devastating, with hair proteins weakened and follicles made fragile as a result.
21. Try something new
Guys with longer hair will want to avoid certain styles. Ponytails, braids, and top-knots can pull hair follicles, increasing the chances of baldness. Try a looser style to ensure more luscious locks.
22. Focus on a healthier you
Your health can have a major impact on the condition of your hair. Many underlying health problems result in hair loss so make sure you’re getting those concerns checked out and treated by a professional.
23. Look closely at your medication
If you’re receiving treatment for a health issue, consult your doctor about the side effects that certain types of medication may cause. Some medication can result in hair loss. Ask for an alternative if hair growth has halted or slowed after taking the medication.
24. Stay away from harsh chemicals
Exposure to harsh chemicals can be bad for your health and bad for your hair. Everything from corrosive cleaning products to permanent hair colour can damage hair health. Keep away from these chemicals and avoid colouring your hair completely if you are suffering from hair loss.
