I’m a hairdresser – here’s the truth about hair loss and how to get thicker locks fast
THICK, voluptuous hair is something that many of us can only dream of.
However, there are some simple ways to help encourage hair growth.
Whether you’ve noticed your hair just isn’t as thick as it once was, or perhaps you’ve always had thinner hair and are hoping to give it a boost, help is at hand.
What’s causing your hair loss?
Finding that your hair is thinning? Or, it just doesn’t seem as thick as it once was?
There are several reasons why this might be happening.
Jack Merrick-Thirlway is creative director at Neville Hair & Beauty.
He says hereditary hair loss is the most common type of hair loss and is transmitted through your genes.
This type of hair loss can start from teen years and although will be difficult to treat, it can be slowed down if treated immediately.
Hormonal imbalances may also cause you to lose hair.
Pregnancy and the menopause are two key times when hormonal imbalances can occur, leading to changes in hair thickness.
However, chronic stress and certain medications can also contribute to these imbalances.
“It is important to visit your medical practitioner as soon as you notice the hair loss as they will be able to advise on the best course of action,” says Jack.
Another hair saboteur is excessive friction. Jacks says those who are wearing a tight ponytail repeatedly may find themselves experiencing hair loss.
“The hair loss will stop when you change the way you wear your hair.”
FInally, using the wrong products or having too many chemical treatments can lead to hair loss.
“That’s why it is important to seek professional advice when considering chemical based treatments,” adds Jack.
So, how can we encourage our hair to grow?
Pick the right hair care
Jack says that when shopping for new products to help with hair thickness, there are few ingredients to look out for.
“I’d advise looking out for ingredients such as biotin, collagen, amino acids and products containing vitamin B3. These all help strengthen the hair follicles and promote growth.
“That said, if you feel out of your depth, you can also seek advice with your hair stylist.”
Be wary of too many chemicals in your styling products as they can exacerbate hair loss.
Wash right
“To ensure your hair stays healthy it is important not to over wash it,” advises Jack.
“Instead try and limit washing your hair to two or three times a week.
“Use a gentle shampoo and conditioner to make sure you do not remove any moisture.”
Dry hair a problem?
Jack recommends applying some leave-in conditioner: “Also, when you have finished washing your hair, try patting your hair dry with a towel as opposed to rubbing it.”
Protect your hair when styling
From hair brushes to heated appliances, we put our hair through a lot. So, be sure you’re protecting your hair as you style.
“Try and avoid overbrushing,” says Jack, who says it’s best to invest in a good hairbrush as poor quality hair brushes can cause more damage to the hair.
With hairdryers, curlers and straighteners, try to use a lower heat setting, and always use a heat protection spray to avoid unnecessary damage or breakage.
Jack warns that it’s best not to skip your six-weekly haircuts either. Ensuring hair is trimmed regularly lowers the risk of hair becoming damaged.
Food can help
Nutritionist Rob Hobson says that there are some specific nutrients which can support hair growth: “Biotin (vitamin B7) and the other B vitamins can help.
“Find these in meat, eggs, dairy foods, leafy greens such as kale, and nutritional yeast.”
Rob adds: “Watch out for iron deficiency too as this can leave hair weak and brittle.
“More than a quarter of women don’t get enough iron in their diet, so be sure you’re eating enough by including foods rich in iron such as red meat, beans and dried fruits.”
Make sure you’re also getting enough protein in your diet. “Hair is made from keratin which is a structural protein.
“If you lack enough protein, then you risk weak and brittle hair,” says Rob.
Another nutrient important for hair is zinc: “This mineral regulates sebum production, an oily substance that helps to keep your scalp and hair moisturised.
“Overproduction can lead to oily hair and scalp contributing to dandruff.”
The life cycle of hair
It’s also worth noting that our hair changes throughout our life.
“Over time you will notice your hair can look different than what it was like.
“This can be caused by various factors such as hormonal changes, medical treatments, diet or growth patterns,” says Jack.
He explains that there are four stages in your natural hair cycle: Anagen, Catagen, Telogen and Exogen.
The Anagen phase is the phase when hair grows most rapidly.
“During this phase, your hair grows at an average of 15cm a year,” explains Jack.
This phase generally lasts between three to five years but can vary.
This is then followed by the 10-day Catagen phase, which signals the end of the hair growth.
The next phase, known as Telogen, lasts around three months, and hair will not actively grow during this phase.
Finally, Exogen; the last stage in the hair growth cycle: “It refers to the phase where you shed hair.”
Jack adds it is likely your hair may appear thicker during the Anagen phase.
Fake it
There are ways to fake thick hair. Jack suggests tape-in hair extensions which he says are a speedy way to increase hair’s volume and length.
He adds: “Our experts may recommend the use of wigs to avoid further compromising the hair if it is weak and brittle.
“They may also advise keratin bond extensions if the client is looking for longer term volume.”