Hair loss is an unwelcome but expected part of everyday life. While clogging the drain is inconvenient, it is normal for people to lose between 50 and 100 strands of hair on average daily.
However, anything more may be a cause for concern. According to research by the NHS, 6.5 million men and 8 million women experience significant hair loss.
Multiple factors can cause this, such as fluctuating hormones, heightened stress levels, and seasonal changes.
Particularly as the winter chill settles, so does the risk of excessive hair shedding.
Experts at hair transplant Vera Clinic have explored five ways to reduce seasonal hair loss.
Save the strands with melatonin
Melatonin is a hormone that regulates the body’s circadian rhythms. According to Healthline, melatonin can also be used as a topical treatment to encourage hair growth.
It does this in multiple ways, including prolonging the growth phase of the hair cycle, also known as the anagen phase. Melatonin also has antioxidant properties that protect the hair follicles that lessen hair thinning.
Melatonin can be applied directly to the scalp in the form of a cream, serum, foam, or spray, with the ideal dosage being between 0.0033 percent and 0.1 percent applied once daily for 90 to 180 days, according to a 2023 study.
Hair growth hacks
Social media is filled with hair growth hacks that promise instant results. While most of these are unfortunately unsuccessful, there are two that actually work when applied to the scalp and hair strands correctly.
Rosemary oil improves hair growth by increasing blood flow, reducing inflammation, and protecting against cell damage, with research showing that it can be just as effective as minoxidil.
However, it is important to dilute it with a carrier oil, such as jojoba or argan, as pure rosemary oil is potent enough to damage hair follicles.
A rice water rinse is another hack that will go far. There is no specific research that suggests it will help hair growth, but rice water can improve the health and density of hair as it contains proteins and many nutrients, such as vitamins E and B.
Stimulate hair follicles with a scalp massage
Scalp massages are a quick and simple way to reduce seasonal hair loss. They do this by causing the scalp’s blood vessels to expand, which strengthens the follicles and stimulates growth.
Massages also prevent the buildup of dandruff, which can damage the scalp and, in some cases, lead to thinning or excessive shedding.
To massage the scalp with fingertips, apply light to medium pressure and move in small circles. It is best to cover as much of the scalp as possible while also paying attention to areas with the most significant shedding. People may also choose to use tools designed specifically for hair growth, such as a scalp massaging shampoo brush.
Over-the-counter hair loss medication
In severe cases, people may choose to take medication to reduce hair loss. Finasteride and minoxidil, for example, are proven to treat male pattern baldness, while female pattern baldness benefits from minoxidil.
These medications can be taken orally or applied topically and are available to buy in the U.K. However, it is important to consider the financial strain this can have on people, as they are not a permanent solution, and neither is available through the NHS.
Self-care from the inside out
A healthy diet is one of the best ways to reduce hair loss. According to Healthline, foods rich in vitamins B and E, selenium, zinc, and protein are essential for strong, healthy hair.
These include, but are not limited to, eggs, blackberries, lentils, and salmon. People can also take supplements to reduce hair loss, from collagen and omega-3.
