As an expert in hair loss, I understand the fear and frustration that comes with thinning hair. Women are less likely to experience hair loss in their 20s, but may start to see symptoms in their 40s, 50s, and beyond. Fortunately, there are natural treatments that can help. Sandalwood, lavender, rosemary, and thyme oils have been used to treat hair loss for over 100 years.
A compound they contain is believed to stimulate hair growth. However, it's important to test a small patch of skin 24 hours before applying the mixture to the entire head, as some people may experience topical allergic reactions. Massaging the scalp can also help stimulate blood flow and potentially promote hair growth. Pumpkin seed oil is another natural treatment for hair loss.
A study conducted on men found that those who took 400 milligrams (mg) of pumpkin seed oil for 6 months experienced a 40 percent increase in average hair count, while those who took a placebo only experienced a 10 percent increase in their average hair count. All men had a history of androgenic alopecia or male pattern baldness. Saw palmetto extracts and supplements may also work well for thinning hair because they keep testosterone levels balanced. Opinions on saw palmetto as an effective agent for hair growth are mixed, but there are studies that indicate that it is beneficial.
A 2-year study found that supplementing with saw palmetto may increase hair growth in men with male pattern baldness. Participants took 320 mg of saw palmetto every day during the study. After 2 years, participants experienced hair growth mainly on the vertex, or on the top and back of the scalp. Hair loss in women that looks like male pattern baldness could mean a hormonal imbalance, such as an excess of male hormones.
If you can find a solvable cause of hair thinning, the good news is that hair will often grow back and continue to grow at a healthy rate once the underlying cause of hair thinning is addressed. In addition to natural treatments, there are other lifestyle changes you can make to help prevent hair loss. Ryan Welter, a Boston-based hair transplant surgeon, warns that hot water dehydrates locks of hair, resulting in dry, brittle hair that is more likely to break and fall out. Following a nutritious diet and keeping stress levels low can also help promote hair growth.
If you're concerned about hair loss, it's best to see your doctor. The death of a family member, surgery, and sudden or excessive weight loss are examples of trigger events that can affect the body and cause hair loss. If you have certain types of baldness or a health problem that can cause hair loss, you may not be able to grow your hair again. With a consistent and patient approach, natural treatments for hair loss can help your scalp to function again and grow your hair as often as it should or, at the very least, help it to thin out at a slower rate.
I have been having problems with thinning hair and hair loss for almost 6 years and my labs were still showing high levels of testosterone. Polycystic ovary syndrome can cause hair loss, but saw palmetto is used to treat both thinning hair and other symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome.
Hair loss
is on the rise and, while it may not have direct physical effects on health, the emotional toll can be significant. In the eleven phototherapy trials conducted on this topic, participants saw an improvement in hair loss and thickness compared to the control group.Hair loss, especially when it's sudden or excessive, can be frightening but there are natural treatments available that can help slow down or even reverse thinning hair. With patience and consistency, you may be able to restore your scalp's health and promote healthy hair growth.
