Hair Loss Health Center

Understanding Hair Loss -- Prevention

Can I Prevent Hair Loss?

Although you can't reverse natural balding, you can protect your hair from damage that may eventually lead to hair thinning. 

Many people put tremendous stress on their hair. Hair dryers, hot curlers, hair dyes, permanent and hair straightening products, and chemical-laden cosmetics may cause dry, brittle, and thinning hair. 

To prevent hair damage that may cause hair loss, follow these tips:

• Go natural: Leave your hair its natural color and texture. If that is not an option for you, give your hair time to recover between hair blowouts and chemical treatments.
• Choose products wisely: Use a basic shampoo designed for your hair type. When curling your hair, choose less-damaging sponge rollers. Also, brush your hair using a moderately stiff, natural-bristle brush, which is less likely to tear your hair.
• Brush properly: Proper hair brushing can do as much for the condition of your hair as any over-the-counter product. Using a proper brush, apply full strokes from the scalp to the tips of your hair to distribute the hair's natural oil. Be gentle, and avoid brushing your hair when wet, when it is especially fragile. It is best to use a comb on wet hair.