Can Garlic Treat Hair Loss or is it Just a Myth?

A few weeks ago my husband, who is in the late stages of male pattern baldness, breezed past me sporting a faint smell of garlic. On closer examination I found out that he had been using garlic shampoo. Why? He claimed that it helped reduce hair loss. It turns out he bought the shampoo on holiday in Turkey and it triggered his interest as garlic has been used as a hair loss remedy throughout history.

But does garlic, which is part of the onion family, actually work for male pattern baldness or is it just a myth? Here, the London Centre of Trichology, one of the leading clinics for trichology, takes a closer look at the health benefits of garlic including garlic as a treatment for hair loss.

About Garlic

As well as being a popular cooking ingredient worldwide, garlic has been used for centuries to treat a variety of medical conditions. Full of Manganese, Vitamin C and Vitamin B6, garlic has been branded an energy enhancer and is said to combat a multitude of ailments including improving cholesterol levels, helping to reduce blood pressure (only in high doses), boosting the immune system and preventing colds.

In addition to all those health benefits outlined above, this superfood is packed full of sulphur, iron, and copper – all of which are minerals vital for a healthy head of hair.

As an Ancient Hair Loss Remedy

In fact, garlic as a hair loss remedy goes right back to ancient Egypt when it was used to stimulate hair growth and reduce thinning hair. Why? Well lots of the minerals packed in garlic are said to reduce hair loss.  Sulphur, for instance, is one of the principal elements of amino acids such as Keratin, which is one of the main components of hair. Garlic is also a rich source of B vitamins, which are said to fight hair loss, and zinc plays a part in the production of hair cells. Add to this Vitamin C and iron, which promote healthy blood flow, and you are onto a winner…or so it seems.

Garlic Solutions

So, what is the best trick for using garlic as a hair loss remedy? Aside from using garlic shampoo, there are various garlic based natural remedies that you can make in your own kitchen. One, for instance, is to rub the affected area with half a clove of garlic, followed by olive oil, and then sleep with a shower cap on. Wash it all out in the morning, then repeat until you notice a difference. Another is to apply a mix of mainly garlic, onion juice and olive oil to the scalp to prevent hair loss.

Of course, these remedies may seem like a fantastic idea…at first. Especially as you can easily get your hands on these ingredients as the chances are you have them stocked up in your kitchen. But aside from the obvious smell at bedtime, like many home remedies it’s likely that that the novelty will soon wear off….and well before you give it time to see if it has any effects.

Natural Remedies

So what is the solution?  If you want to use tried and tested natural remedies that bring results (without the headache of making it yourself – or the smell), the best advice is to contact our team at the London Centre of Trichology.

We have 60 years’ experience in the industry and have helped thousands of customers over the years. We offer a full range of natural treatments for hair loss for both men and women. These include three to six month courses of herbal based non-surgical treatments which you can apply in the comfort of your own home.

After your free consultation at our leading London clinic for trichology, we will provide you with monthly check-ups to chart your progress. We will also take detailed before and after photos so you can see the results first hand. Contact us today to get started!

This Summer’s Prettiest Hair Colours

It is a common myth that dyeing your hair can actually cause hair loss; but this is not actually the case. In fact using the right colours, and having your hair professionally dyed can actually make your hair look thicker and, if done correctly, can enhance your best features, making the colour of your eyes stand out. 

Any trichologist in London, however, would advise on a patch test in advance of any hair dye treatment at your local salon. This is vital as it will check for any chemical or allergic reaction you may experience, as burns to the scalp – although uncommon – can cause minor to severe hair loss.

Meanwhile, if you are planning on getting your hair coloured by a professional stylist, there are plenty of fashionable colours to choose from this summer. From brunette, to buttery highlights on blonde hair or dark mahogany, the London Centre of Trichology takes a look at some of this season’s prettiest colours.

Buttery Blonde Highlights

A professional colourist can always advice you on the right colour to enhance your eyes and skin tone. If you are opting for a brighter, warmer look, buttering blonde highlights are very now and have been sported by the likes of singers Beyoncé and Britney Spears, and ‘Spiderman’ actress Kirsten Dunst. The great thing about choosing this type of hair is that it goes with any eye colour.

Deep Mahogany

Deep mahogany hair has been fashioned by celebrities such as singer and ‘Unfabulous’ actress Emma Roberts, who is actually the niece of Julia Roberts. This strong and vibrant hair colour will make certain that you will stand out in a crowd this summer. Its rich dark shade is a real head turner and suits warmer skin tones.

Copper Colour with a Gradient

Hair colour with a gradient means colours that fade into one another, and may involve several colours. The hair is separated into segments before dyeing and the thinner the segments that are dyed, the more the colour appears to blend naturally. Among the celebrities opting for this hair colour include ‘Desperate Housewives’ actress Marcia Cross and ‘Game of Thrones’ actress Sophie Turner, who is actually a natural blonde rather than a red head.

Rich Caramel Blonde

This is a natural, warm, light brown hair colour that suits medium to darker skin tones. You can ask your stylist to leave paler highlights around your face to give your locks more of a sun-kissed look. This stunning hair colour has been worn by celebrities such as model Gigi Hadad and ‘Legally Blonde’ actress Reece Witherspoon.

Walnut Brown

This dark brown hair colour can make your eyes pop! It’s the ideal choice for brunettes who want to make a striking change. It is also perfect for those who have some grey strands that they want to cover up. Among the celebrities who have sported the walnut brown look include ‘Pretty Little Liars’ actress Shay Mitchell.

Platinum Blonde

This colour is ideal for blondes who want to go even lighter and suits fair skin, or skin with a yellowish tint. It looks fantastic with any eye colour, especially with blue eyes, and is bang on trend this summer. Among the celebrities with this hair colour include reality TV star Kim Kardashian and singer Taylor Swift.

Meanwhile, if you have any concerns about hair loss or scalp problems and are looking for an experienced trichologist in London, the London Centre of Trichology can help. We are easy to find in central London and have 60 years’ of experience in providing solutions for male and female hair loss. Just click on the link today to contact one of our leading trichologists, and to book an appointment.  

Seven Top Tips for Restoring Dry or Damaged Hair

If you have dry, damaged hair, there are various ways to restore its condition. Taking good care of your hair, just as you would your skin, goes a long way towards boosting your confidence. With these handy tips from one of the leading London clinics for trichology, it won’t take long before you can show off your shiny tresses. Read on to discover our seven top tips to protect your locks.

Meanwhile, if you are worried about signs of hair loss, you don’t have to go through this alone as there’s lots of help available. Our friendly consultants at the London Centre of Trichology can chat to you about your concerns and provide effective solutions. Just contact us today to arrange a consultation in the relaxed surroundings of our clinic in Blandford Street, West London.

Making the Most of Your Natural Look

The 21^st century is all about making the most of your natural beauty, whether that relates to make-up or hair care. Hair today doesn’t have to be perfectly styled. In fact showing your imperfections is very modern; think of Kate Moss’s decisively cool and much coveted laid back, tousled tresses.  This is great news if you have hair with a bit of a wave. Instead of reaching for the straighteners or crimping your hair, try styling it naturally. There are a variety of 2 in 1 products that work to bring out your hair’s natural curl, while also adding much needed hold.

Take Regular Visits to the Salon

If you have thinning hair, this may be the last thing you want to do, but having regular haircuts does help to improve its condition. Why? Dry, split ends are known to hinder hair growth and can make even the healthiest of tresses look unkempt. Stylists recommended you have your hair cut every six to eight weeks, regardless of length.

Choose Your Hair Products Carefully

Too many products over time can play havoc with your hair, say the London Centre of Trichology. Regularly bleaching your hair, or exposing it to harsh chemicals is bound to have a knock on effect on your tresses over time. Instead, avoid bleaching your hair and limit your use of hair products where possible. It’s also a good idea to opt for hair products containing natural and balanced ingredients as and where you can.

Protect Your Hair from Sun Damage

Your hair can be damaged by harmful UV rays, just as your skin can, so it is worth protecting it in the heat. There are sprays available that are designed to protect your hair in bright sunlight. It is also worth investing in a hat in summer, especially when you are on holiday. Wide brim hats are bang on trend as they not only look great on the beach, but will also protect your face too. 

Protect Your Hair in the Pool

Immersing your hair in pool chlorine is never a good idea and can harm its condition over time. Of course, fashionistas might be shy about wearing a swim cap on holiday. If so, tie your hair on top of your head and do your best to keep it out of the water when you swim. Swimming breast stroke will help keep your hair dry, or you could choose to stay out of the water and relax on an inflatable lilo. Just don’t forget your hat!

Regularly Condition Your Hair

For healthy tresses, it is always a good idea to choose a hair conditioner that suits your hair type, and to use it after every shampoo. If your hair is very dull and dry, it is worth giving your locks a bit of pampering with a weekly hair mask. This will help restore its shine and bounce.

Dry Your Hair Naturally

Regularly blasting your hair with a hair-dryer can have a knock-on effect on its condition. Instead, it is recommended you gently squeeze the excess water out of your hair after showering and wrap it in a towel to help it dry. Remove the towel when your hair is damp, then brush it softly and leave it to dry on its own accord. While you won’t be able to do this when you are in a rush, leaving your hair to dry naturally the majority of the time will go a long way to helping restore its condition.

London Centre of Trichology – Established in the 1950s, we are one of the leading London Clinics for Trichology. Contact us today for friendly advice on any problems relating to the hair and scalp, including itchy scalps and hair loss.

Myths and Facts about Hair Loss

Going bald can be worrying, and this is often made worse by many of the myths and rumours that you hear about male hair loss. Here, The London Centre of Trichology explains some of the myths about hair loss, as well as some of the less well known facts.

Hair Transplants Look Fake: Myth

Hair transplants are so advanced now that it is often very hard to spot someone who has had surgical treatment on their scalp. The hair that grows looks very natural, and will not stand out in a crowd. Wigs are also very natural looking for men experiencing hair loss, and human hair wigs are almost impossible to spot when secured correctly.

Only Men Suffer From Genetic Hair Loss: Myth

Over 40% of women suffer from hair loss at some point in their life, and this is often caused by genes in the family. Women often cover their hair loss using extensions and wigs which is why it is not as well known.

Hair Loss Comes From the Mother’s Side: Myth

Baldness is hereditary, however it can come from either side of the family. The gene can come from either your mother or father, or even your grandparents. Baldness can also be caused by a variety of other things such as health, diet, stress and over processing.

Washing Your Hair in Cold Water Can Boost Hair Growth: Myth

This may boost your blood circulation, however it is not proven to do anything for hair loss and growth. This is often thought to be true, however it has never been found to help improve the thickness or health of hair.

 If You Lose Hair Every Day You Must Be Balding: Myth

The average person loses around 100 hairs a day which is completely normal. However, if you have male pattern baldness then you may lose hair every day, but this will be a much higher amount. Normally, you will grow any hairs that fall out back.

It’s Normal to Lose Hair after You Turn 30: Fact

Your hair naturally gets thinner as you grow older, and the number of hair follicles on your scalp will reduce over time. Hair will become finer and sparser as you age, however this is completely normal and is not a sign of male hair loss.

Some Hairstyles Can Cause Hair Loss: Fact

If you pull your hair up too tight in a man bun or ponytail it can lead to traction alopecia, where hair falls out due to too much tension on the follicles. This can be avoided with looser styles and snag free hair bands. Otherwise, hair can be worn down to avoid putting too much strain onto it.

Cutting Your Hair Can Reduce Hair Loss: Myth

This may help your hair to look and feel thicker, however it will not stop or prevent hair loss. Regular haircuts can keep your hair in good condition and split ends at bay, and it is good to try have a trim every eight weeks. After a haircut your hair will be thicker at base, giving it the illusion of volume and thickness.

Stress Causes Hair Loss: Fact

Extreme stress can often lead to hair loss in men, and can also cause premature greyness. Some people experience hair loss following extreme event such as a car crash or the death of a loved one, however this is not usually permanent.

 Mistreating Your Hair Can Cause Hair Loss: Fact

This may not cause permanent damage, but mistreated hair can become brittle and dry, and can often snap and break off.  Too much rough brushing, dying and exposure to heat can cause hair to weaken and fall out over time. Greasy hair can also cause problems with your scalp as it blocks the pores, and in the long run this can cause your hair to suffer.

If you are experiencing male hair loss in London, contact The London Centre of Trichology to find out more about how we can help you.