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.