How to fight back hereditary hair loss in simple ways: Medications to healthy lifestyle

Thick, lush hair that covers the entire head is a sign of youth and even beauty. An individual loses between fifty and one hundred hair strands on average every day, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. However, in certain individuals, these do not recover with new growth. Hereditary factors may be one of the causes of hair loss.

Baldness is frequently the result of hereditary hair loss, a natural condition brought on by a mix of hormone levels and genetics. This condition is called female pattern baldness in women and male pattern baldness in men. It is also referred to as androgenic alopecia.

Experts on Androgenic Alopecia

"To effectively combat hereditary hair loss, it's crucial to understand what causes it," says Dr. Charu Sharma, Co-founder and director of dermatology at Cureskin, a renowned specialist in hair and scalp health. Androgenetic alopecia, the most common cause of hereditary hair loss, primarily results from genetics and hormonal factors. It affects both men and women, with patterns of hair thinning and balding differing between the sexes.

"Your hair's health is closely linked to your diet," says Clinical Dietician and founder of FitFoody.in Sonia Sinha. "Eating a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients is crucial for maintaining strong, healthy hair." She emphasizes the importance of protein, iron, biotin, and vitamins A and D in promoting hair growth.

Sinha also recommends incorporating foods like lean meats, fish, eggs, leafy greens, pulse legumes, and nuts into your diet. She adds, "Supplements can also be beneficial if you struggle to meet your nutritional needs through food alone, but it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any supplements."

"When it comes to slowing hereditary hair loss, Topical treatments, medications, and healthy lifestyle choices can make a significant difference," further emphasized Dr. Sharma. Over-the-counter topical solutions containing minoxidil have shown promising results in stimulating hair growth and reducing hair loss in both men and women.

Preventive measures for hair loss 

Additionally, prescription medications like finasteride, primarily used for men, and spironolactone, mainly for women, can be effective in blocking the hormones that are key contributors to hair loss in people with androgenetic alopecia. However, these medications should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional due to potential side effects.

"Stress is a silent contributor to hair loss," warns yoga teacher Manisha Chawla. High stress levels can exacerbate hair loss and make it more challenging to manage. Chawla recommends incorporating stress-reduction techniques into your daily routine, such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.

Moreover, lifestyle factors like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can also accelerate hair loss. Quitting smoking and moderating alcohol intake can have a positive impact on your hair's health and overall well-being.

While there might not be a surefire cure for hereditary hair loss, there are several expert-recommended strategies that can help slow down the process and potentially promote hair regrowth. These approaches include gaining insights into the underlying causes, making adjustments to your diet, exploring topical treatments, considering advanced medical procedures, and effectively managing stress. These tips provide hope and options for individuals dealing with this widespread concern.