Preventing Further Hair Loss

1. Reduce stress

Having high stress levels can lead to particular types of hair loss. Try to stay relaxed. Practice meditation, talk walks, or do yoga. Consider writing in a journal to help sort through daily stresses. Hair loss from stress need not be permanent. If you can reduce your stress levels, your hair might regrow. The following types of hair loss result from excess stress:

• If you have telogen effluvium, significant stress pushes large numbers of hair follicles into a resting phase. Within a couple months, affected hairs fall out suddenly when you comb or wash your hair.
• With trichotillomania, you have an irresistible urge to pull hair from your scalp, eyebrows or other areas of your body. You might do this to deal with stress, tension, loneliness, boredom, or frustration.
• Stress also can cause alopecia areata. With this condition, your immune system attacks your hair follicles, which causes hair loss.

2. Wash your hair with chemical-free products

Look for products without sodium lauryl sulfate, a harsh chemical that creates foam. Use products with natural ingredients that will cleanse your hair but not damage it. Peppermint oil, coconut oil, rosemary, and jojoba oil are all good natural ingredients for hair care.

3. Treat your hair well

Avoid tight hairstyles, such as braids, buns, or ponytails. Do not twist, rub, or pull your hair excessively. Be gentle when washing your hair with warm (not hot) water. Do not brush your hair too hard. A wide-toothed comb can help you avoid pulling out excess hairs. Minimize harsh treatments on your hair like hot rollers, curling irons, hot oil treatments, and permanents.

4. Drink plenty of water

You hair shaft is comprised of 25% water. Drink at least sixty-four ounces of water (8 cups of 8 oz.) per day. This will help you stay hydrated and assist hair growth.

5. Incorporate herbs into your diet

Sage can increase hair density while rosemary can stimulate hair growth. You can cook with both herbs. Try to use them weekly and buy fresh rather than dried rosemary if possible. Eating a nutritionally balanced diet will also help prevent hair loss.

• You also can mix rosemary with almond oil. Apply the concoction directly to your scalp in bald areas.