As winter draws near, many individuals suffer the seasonal woe of increased hair loss. During the cold weather days, proper hair care is essential to maintain healthy and luscious hair. Let’s explore the reasons and remedies of winter hair loss. 

Common Hair Fall Issues in Winter Season

Excessive Hair Shedding

During winter, many people notice an increase in hair shedding. It is normal to lose some hair daily, but excessive shedding can be a concern.

Dry and Itchy Scalp

The dry winter air can lead to scalp dryness and itching. This discomfort can also exacerbate hair fall issues.

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Brittle Hair

The lack of moisture in the air can make hair more brittle and prone to breakage, leading to further hair fall.

The lack of moisture in the winter air can render hair more fragile and susceptible to breakage. And, it ultimately results in increased hair fall and diminished hair health.

Causes of Losing Excessive Hair during the Cold Months

Cold, and Dry Air

The cold winter air, devoid of moisture, actively parches hair, leaving it dry and highly susceptible to damage. Without adequate humidity, hair's natural moisture balance is disrupted. This makes hair prone to breakage and other winter-induced issues like hair fall.

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Steamy Showers

Steamy showers, although comforting in winter, can contribute to hair fall. The excessive heat and steam strip the hair of essential oils and leave it dry and fragile. This, combined with the dry air can exacerbate the problem and make hair more prone to shedding.

Heat Styling

Heat styling is a common culprit behind winter hair fall. Excessive curling irons use, straighteners, and hair dryers rob the hair of moisture. Such practices make the hair brittle, more likely to break and leads to increased hair shedding.

Nutritional Deficiencies

During winter, nutritional deficiencies can pose a significant threat to hair health. Colder weather often leads to dietary shifts and potentially deprives your body of vital vitamins and minerals crucial for maintaining healthy hair. Such deficiencies weaken hair, making it more susceptible to falling out.

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Stress and Lifestyle Factors

Stress and alterations in winter routines play an active role in hair fall problems. Seasonal changes, coupled with holiday stress, disrupt the body's equilibrium and affect hair growth cycles. This is how increased stress levels can exacerbate hair loss.

Solutions to Combat Winter Hair Loss 

Oil Your Hair 

Applying oil to hair twice a week during winter offers numerous benefits. This soothing practice not only relaxes but also effectively combats winter hair loss. 

Some great options are olive and almond oils. They are rich in essential vitamins and fatty acids. The oils nourish your hair and scalp and shield them from the harsh cold. Jojoba oil is also another superb hair moisturiser worth considering.

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Gentle Hair Care Products

Selecting gentle, hair care products specifically tailored to your unique hair type is necessary. Such products are formulated to treat your hair's specific needs, preventing unnecessary harm. This choice can promote healthier, stronger hair, even during the harsh winter months.

Stop Frequent Hair Wash

In the dry winter climate, frequent hair washing can actively deplete your hair's natural moisture. It leads to increased vulnerability to hair fall. To counter this, it is recommended to opt for washing your hair only once or twice a week. On intervening days, dry shampoo can be used to effectively maintain cleanliness while preserving essential moisture.

Stay Away from Hot Showers

Hot showers, especially during winter, can actively damage your hair and lead to hair fall. It is a common habit to indulge in hot showers for warmth, but they are detrimental to your hair health. Experts suggest using lukewarm water when washing your hair to protect it from harm and maintain its vitality.

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Avoid Heat Styling

Try to opt for air drying rather than heat styling. Blow-drying expedites moisture loss, heightening the risk of breakage. Embracing your natural hair and allowing it to air dry whenever possible is a strategy to maintain the lustre and resilience of your hair. Avoiding heat is crucial during the brittle winter season.

Use of Humidifiers

An active strategy for sustaining optimal air moisture levels is using a humidifier in your living space. This directly benefits your hair. The added humidity prevents the air from becoming excessively dry. It ensures your hair retains its natural moisture and aids in the battle against winter hair fall.

Hydration

Staying well-hydrated in the winter is paramount. Adequate hydration actively maintains moisture in both your hair and scalp. The dry winter air can parch your hair and skin and makes hydration even more critical to prevent dryness and hair fall. Hydration ensures a healthier and more lustrous hair.

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Maintain a Healthy Diet

Sustaining a nutritious diet is crucial. Adequate vitamin intake, particularly vitamin D and biotin, actively supports hair health. Vitamin D fosters hair follicle growth and biotin strengthens hair structure. Ensuring these essential nutrients in your diet can help combat winter hair fall and promote a healthier mane.

When to See a Doctor

If you are facing severe winter hair loss, it is vital to assess the situation. Daily 120-160 hair strands shedding is normal. However, excessive hair loss might signify underlying scalp issues. Symptoms can be itchiness, redness, flakes, pus, or developing bald patches. 

When home remedies and over-the-counter products prove ineffective, seeking guidance from a dermatologist or trichologist is advisable. They can help identify and address the underlying causes of your hair loss. It is always best to have tailored treatment options and follow expert advice for a healthier scalp and hair.

Summing Up

Winter hair fall can be a frustrating issue, but with the right knowledge and care, you can manage it effectively. By understanding the depth of hair loss issues, causes and implementing the suggested solutions, you can combat hair fall even during the coldest months. Do not let the chilly weather damage your precious healthy hair!

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