By the time most men reach middle age, they’ve begun to experience some balding. (And for many men, hair loss begins as early as their 20s.) And while it’s a complicated topic, you have to be careful not to fall for common myths, like the following:
- Shampoo Makes You Lose Your Hair
Have you heard this myth before? On the surface, it seems to make sense. After all, don’t certain shampoos contain chemicals that could potentially compromise your hair and cause it to fall out?
While it’s true that certain ingredients, like formaldehyde, have been loosely linked to hair loss, there isn’t any definitive evidence. Plus, very few shampoos contain formaldehyde these days. Yes, other additives like detergents, sequestering agents, and certain preservatives can leave hair dry and brittle, but they’re not likely to cause hair loss.
On the contrary, there are actually plenty of DHT-blocking shampoo and conditioner products that may stop hair loss. So if you believe you’re experiencing hair loss, you might want to swap your shampoo.
For best results, you want to wash your hair two to three times per week. This will help to keep your scalp clean without stripping your hair of the nutrients needed to thrive.
- You Inherit hair Loss From Your Mom
This is something people talk about all the time. But do you want to know the truth? The idea that your mom’s side of the family determines whether you keep or lose your hair is nothing more than an old wives’ tale.
While it’s true that genetics are one of the most common causes of hair loss, you can inherit the “baldness gene” from either side of the family. That includes your father’s side! If you’re someone who likes to geek out on research studies, this report has all the info you need.
- Laser Therapy is Dangerous and Unproven
When people hear the term “laser therapy,” there’s a natural knee-jerk reaction. It’s common to associate lasers with pain, but nothing could be further from the truth. Laser cap systems work using low level lasers, or LEDs (also known as cold lasers). They produce no heat, but instead stimulate blood flow and cellular function through a process known as photobiomodulation. While some people report a warm sensation on the scalp, this is simply the result of increased circulation. The process is totally painless and safe. Not only that, studies show that it may even improve cognitive functions and mood.
- Hair Loss is Always Permanent
Losing hair can be alarming – particularly if it happens relatively quickly and without much explanation. But don’t assume that all hair loss is permanent. The fact is, most hair loss can be reversed with the correct approach.
The most common cause of male hair loss is a condition known as male pattern baldness. And while you can’t hold off genetics forever, there are ways to slow down loss. As for other causes – like trauma, eating disorders, nutritional imbalances, illness, trauma, or complications with medications – they can all be reversed by addressing the underlying cause.
- Wearing Hats Causes Baldness
This myth is likely due to the fact that people who are balding often choose to wear a hat to conceal their hair loss. Then as the hair loss accelerates, they start to wonder if the hat is actually causing their balding. However, this is rarely the case.
As WebMD explains it: “While wearing a hat does not usually cause baldness, it is possible that anything a person puts on their head may cause hair loss if it pulls the hair.”
In other words, the biggest issue is wearing the hat too tightly and aggressively putting it on or taking it off. But to be honest, the risk level is low. So wear your hat as you please!
Setting the Record Straight
Hair loss is frustrating. Despite being quite common, men often find it embarrassing and shameful. But the good news is there’s hope. In most cases, hair loss can be stopped and even reversed.
The key is to act quickly and to make smart decisions based on your circumstances.
Read Next: How to Make My Hair Healthier (mamabee.com)
Photo by Justin Chen on Unsplash
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