Hair loss is a common problem for both men and women. For men, specifically, male pattern baldness is a very common condition that affects up to two-thirds of the male population. As such, male hair wigs are constantly in demand. There are many possible reasons why an individual may experience rapid hair loss, such as ageing, genetics, hair damage, hormones, nutrient deficiency, poor hair care habits, and more. To solve this problem, many people resort to the use of hair loss shampoos.
It is common for many hair loss shampoos to make excessive claims when it comes to their effectiveness. For instance, some products promise to prevent hair thinning and increase hair growth. But is there some truth to these claims? Or is it only a marketing ploy to get the public’s attention and generate revenues?
To answer these questions, this article looks into the effectiveness of hair loss shampoos and enumerates some hair care practices you can follow to minimise hair loss.
What exactly is a hair loss shampoo?
As their name implies, hair loss shampoos are those that reduce or stop hair loss and promote hair regrowth. They usually provide scalp nourishment while absorbing excess oil and giving a refreshing finish. Most hair loss shampoos contain ketoconazole, volumizing proteins, hydrocortisone, or dihydrotestosterone (DHT) blockers.
DHT refers to a hormone known for shrinking hair follicles, thereby leading to hair thinning. Panthenol, an alcohol derivative of pantothenic acid that is known for its fortifying characteristics, is another common ingredient often used in hair loss shampoos. In some hair loss shampoos, ingredients that boost blood circulation, such as caffeine, are also used to promote hair restoration and growth.
Does hair loss shampoo effectively stop hair loss?
The simple answer to this question is no; hair loss shampoos do not have the ability to prevent or stop hair loss. Nonetheless, they may help in adding volume and thickness to your hair and in promoting hair growth. Particularly, if your hair loss has something to do with a scalp condition, such as psoriasis or seborrheic dermatitis, then the use of hair loss shampoos with anti-inflammatory or anti-fungal agents may aid in its reversal.
According to hair disorder experts like Dr. Jerry Shapiro and Dr. Antonella Tosti, there is anecdotal evidence showing that both hydrocortisone and ketoconazole assist in boosting hair growth to a certain extent. However, it is important to remember that ketoconazole is not FDA-approved when it comes to treating hair loss.
Moreover, since hair loss shampoos with DHT blockers are believed to suppress DHT, which is a hormone that shrinks hair follicles, there is a slight possibility that the use of these shampoos can help lessen hair thinning. Lastly, shampoos that come with panthenol are said to add volume and thickness to the hair. So, they are often considered effective hair-thickening shampoos. That said, there is still no sufficient scientific evidence to prove this claim.
Hair care practices you should follow
Although hair loss shampoos can be helpful in promoting hair growth, there are several complementary practices that you should be doing at the same time to help support your hair health. These healthy hair care practices include:
- Doing intensive exercises that produce sweat
- Giving yourself a scalp massage at least twice or thrice a week
- Eating a nutritious, balanced diet
- Getting enough sleep every day (choose a silk pillowcase to avoid hair breakage)
- Avoiding chemical applications directly onto your scalp, such as relaxers and permanent hair colour
Aside from the abovementioned practices, you should also veer away from bad habits, such as smoking cigarettes, vaping, excessive alcohol drinking, and using recreational drugs, which can all adversely impact your kidneys and liver. When these organs become overworked or damaged, they can have a negative consequence on your immune system and hair health.
Conclusion
Hair loss is not unusual for men. If you notice loss of hair density or hair thinning, it is necessary to equip yourself with the right evidence-based information when it comes to resolving your hair loss problem. While the use of hair loss shampoos can help add volume and thickness to your hair and promote hair growth, it is not the ultimate solution to your hair issue. Adopting a holistic hair care approach that combines the use of proper shampoos with other healthy habits is the way to go.
If you have been losing hair rapidly and are looking for a quick solution to regain your confidence, consider getting a hair replacement system or hair wig in Singapore now. At Rehair Lab, we take pride in having hair replacement specialists who can provide you with high-quality and long-lasting hair systems, all fully personalised according to your needs. Do not hesitate to get in touch with us today!