You’ve probably already noticed that hair loss tends to increase in the fall! How does the season affect hair loss, and what can you do to minimize it?
Seasonal effect
It’s a proven fact! In the fall, we lose 2 to 4 times more hair, and the explanation is quite simple. In the summer, the sun and heat accelerate hair growth. As a result, a larger number of hairs reach the end of their life cycle by early fall. The season isn’t the only factor contributing to hair loss. Throughout the year, certain bad habits should be avoided to prevent hair loss.
Aggravating factors
The use of harsh products:
Hair dyes, hairspray, dry shampoo, and shampoos containing silicone are among the main causes of hair damage. Opt for plant-based hair dyes and gentle, pH-neutral products.
Smoking:
Tobacco has a harmful effect on hair growth and promotes hair loss by damaging the hair’s genetic makeup. For these reasons and thousands more, the best thing to do is quit.
Heat:
Hair dryers, flat irons, and other heated styling tools weaken the hair. This makes it brittle, causing it to fall out more easily. The best approach is to let your hair air-dry and style it naturally; if you insist on using electrical appliances, opt for steam-based devices, which are less damaging to the hair.
Stress and hormones
Hormonal changes or stress can also be a cause of hair loss. Take time to relax and take care of yourself. Finally, during hormonal changes, it is advisable to consult a specialist if hair loss is excessive.
Solutions
Fortunately, there are ways to keep your hair healthy! L’Artisan Brossier has put together some tips for you:
To reduce hair loss
Brushing
In fact, proper brushing helps maintain strong, healthy hair; conversely, it can lead to significant hair loss. When your hair is wet, it is very vulnerable, and brushing it at this time is the best way to lose a large amount of it. Let it dry naturally, then brush it—but be sure to always brush downward, starting at the ends and gradually working your way up to the roots. Otherwise, you risk pulling out strands at every knot. Finally, if you want to brush it while it’s still wet, use a wide-toothed wooden comb to avoid damaging the hair shaft and pulling too hard on your hair.
Night
Choose a silk pillowcase, or sleep with a silk scarf on your hair. Silk reduces the friction that weakens and breaks your hair throughout the night.
Check out our article on hair and sleep.
The brush's choice
Use a brush made from natural materials, such as wood, which is much gentler on your hair. The must-have is a pure boar bristle brush. Boar bristles are made of 100% keratin; they penetrate the hair shaft to gently detangle it, unlike plastic brushes, which irritate the hair fiber and pull out strands while detangling. Additionally, boar bristles have anti-static properties and help distribute sebum evenly from root to tip, preventing greasy hair and restoring shine and vitality to your mane. Check out our article to help you choose the right brush.
To promote regrowth
Food
A healthy diet is the key to healthy hair. L’Artisan Brossier has rounded up the best foods for you:
- Fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as tuna, salmon, and sardines, also help strengthen the hair shaft.
- Nuts, rich in vitamin B, stimulate hair growth and strengthen the hair shaft.
- Plant-based milks, rich in vitamins A, B, and E, deeply nourish the hair shaft.
- Healthy fats found in raw butter or avocados, for example. These fats make hair shinier and softer.
Care
Natural hair masks made with collagen proteins and plant-based oils (castor, coconut, avocado, etc.) nourish and moisturize the scalp, significantly stimulating hair growth. Check out our article to learn how to make your own natural hair masks at home.
Scalp massages
Massage your scalp for 3 to 5 minutes with your fingertips, using small circular motions to gently move the skin—for example, while applying a hair mask. In addition to its relaxing effect, massage helps stimulate microcirculation, thereby promoting healthy blood flow to the hair follicles. Discover our brushes with a massaging effect.
Now that you know everything there is to know about hair loss, you’re ready to face the fall with all the tools you need to minimize hair loss and stimulate hair growth.