10 Hair Loss Myths Debunked

There are many myths and rumours out there about the causes of hair loss, and many of them are simply just not true. Here we take a look at 10 hair loss myths that you shouldn’t pay any attention to.

1. Wearing hats causes hair loss

This is something you might hear from older relatives, but the truth is, unless you’re wearing a hat so tight it cuts off the circulation to your hair follicles, wearing hats won’t cause hair loss.

2. Hair loss comes from your Dad’s side of the family

The gene that leads to baldness doesn’t just come from one side of the family it can come from either side, so if your Mum’s father has a receding hairline, you could be affected too.

3. Standing on your head will cure hair loss

Yes, standing on your head increases blood flow to your scalp. And no, this won’t help you regrow your hair.

4. Using too many hair products can lead to hair loss

Feel free to use as much mousse, hairspray and gel as you like hair care products don’t cause hairloss, no matter how much you use.

5. Cutting your hair makes it grow back faster and thicker

When your hair grows back it is thicker at the root than at the top, making it appear thicker. Your hair will grow on average around half an inch a month, no matter how often you cut it.

6. Stress causes baldness

Extreme stress can lead to conditions such as Telogen Effluvium and Alopecia. However, the most common form of hair loss - Pattern Baldness - is genetic and isn’t caused by stress.

7. Steroids don’t affect your hair

Bodybuilders or anyone taking anabolic steroids should be aware that the potent cocktail of chemicals they contain can actually accelerate hair loss, and it can take several years before these side effects are noticeable.

8. Blow drying your hair leads to hair loss

While it’s true that blow drying can damage or burn your hair which can cause shedding, hair will normally grow back straightaway, so no lasting damage or hair loss is caused by using a hairdryer.

9. Washing your hair too frequently causes baldness

Hair-care products are designed to be safe to use. You can wash your hair as often a week as you like without experiencing hair loss or baldness although most experts recommend washing hair around three times a week.

10. Too much sun causes hair loss

UV rays can cause premature aging and skin cancer but they have no effect on your hair follicles. However, overexposure to the sun can weaken your hair, so you’re more likely to experience dull, frizzy hair that’s prone to breakage.

Hairloss myths are often old wives’ tales that have been passed down through generations. If you’re worried about hair loss, you should always consult a hair loss expert for an accurate diagnosis and tailored hair loss treatment programme.