Our resident natural hair care professional Simeko Watkins-Hartley answers…
Do you have any advice on shedding?
Remember the adage, “out with the old in with the new”?! Well, that pretty much sums up the process of shedding. Old hairs fall out so new hairs can come through. In technical terms, this process is the telogen stage in the hair growth cycle and lasts about 1 to 4 months.
When should you be concerned about shedding and what can you do about it?
Generally, hair sheds about 50 to 100 strands per day and anything in excess of this may potentially be a cause for concern. Excessive shedding can be the result of a number of things such as stress, hormonal imbalance, crash dieting, deficiency of vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids and protein, certain medications, anemia, thyroid disorders and the list can go on and on.
In essence, when the body goes through internal changes (especially on the cellular level), this can be a cause for excessive shedding since the hair follicle is fed by the blood stream.
If you find this to be the case for you, here are a few things you may want to consider:
Stress Less
I know, I know, easier said than done! However, reducing stress may reduce shedding so try to find little ways to help you relax like reading a good book, listening to your favorite tunes, or exercising.
Eat Well-Balanced Meals
Fruits, vegetables and proteins are the essential building blocks to healthy hair since they provide the necessary vitamins and nutrients your hair needs. Some of you may find eating healthy difficult. If this is the case, you should probably consider taking vitamin supplements. Vitamins such as A, D, Biotin, Iron and Folic Acid are absorbed by the hair and are great for helping to improve the health of your hair.
See A Professional
If you’ve tried any or all of the above and you are still experiencing excessive shedding, you may want to visit your primary care physician, dermatologist or a trichologist (someone who is certified in the scientific study of the hair and scalp).
In conclusion, we all go through different stages/changes in our lives so if you are experiencing excessive shedding because of it, DON’T STRESS….ADJUST! Stressing only makes the situation worse. Take some time to figure out what may be the cause and make the necessary changes. You’ll be happy you did and so will your hair!
Naturally Yours,
Simeko Watkins-Hartley
Owner & Creative Director of Meko, New York Natural Hair Care Spa & Boutique
Disclaimer: This information serves as a guide to inform, inspire and encourage women, like myself, to regain and maintain their healthiest hair possible.
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