When it comes to maintaining a luxurious mane, the health of your scalp plays a pivotal role. Just like nourishing soil is essential for a thriving garden, nurturing your scalp is the cornerstone of healthy hair growth. We asked hair wellness brand Vegamour’s dermatologist Dr. Neera Nathan, to delve into the intricate relationship between scalp health and hair loss. Dr. Nathan sheds light on the factors influencing hair thinning and loss, offering expert insights on the impact of perimenopause, menopause, nutrition, stress, on hair health.
The Root Cause: Unravelling the Link Between Scalp Health and Hair Loss
“Think of your scalp as soil, and each hair follicle as a plant,” Dr. Nathan explains, drawing an analogy that underscores the importance of scalp health. Much like how fertile soil provides the foundation for flourishing plants, a well-nourished and hydrated scalp creates the ideal environment for robust hair growth. Ensuring your scalp’s health is a vital step in preventing hair loss and promoting luscious locks.
Perimenopause and Menopause: Hormones and Hair Loss
During perimenopause and menopause, hormonal fluctuations can play a significant role in hair thinning and loss. Dr. Nathan elaborates that the decrease in oestrogen and progesterone levels can alter the balance of testosterone and its metabolite, dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT can cause hair follicles to shrink over time, resulting in the transformation of thick, long strands into finer, shorter ones. Understanding the hormonal dynamics during these life stages is crucial for addressing hair-related concerns.
Nutrition: Feeding Your Hair from Within
The adage “you are what you eat” holds true for your hair as well. Dr. Nathan emphasises that hair growth relies on essential nutrients derived from a balanced diet. Extreme diets, such as crash diets or those lacking in protein, can contribute to hair loss. Ensuring that your body receives the necessary vitamins and minerals is key to nurturing healthy hair from the inside out.
Stress: A Tangled Web
Stress, whether acute or chronic, can exert a significant impact on your locks. Dr. Nathan highlights that acute stressors, ranging from life-altering events to physical strain, can trigger a reversible hair loss phenomenon known as telogen effluvium. This shedding occurs about three months after the stressful event and typically resolves within six months. Chronic, low-level stress can also contribute to ongoing hair loss, making stress management a vital aspect of hair care.
Caring for Your Crowning Glory: Expert Recommendations
To foster optimal scalp health and encourage hair growth, Dr. Nathan provides a comprehensive protocol. She suggests washing your hair with shampoo and conditioner 1-2 times per week, tailored to your hair type, to maintain scalp health. Avoiding overly tight hairstyles, chemical treatments, and excessive heat styling helps prevent hair breakage and loss. Dr. Nathan advocates for using clean products on both your hair and scalp to minimise irritation and promote healthy growth. A well-rounded, protein-rich diet and stress reduction techniques also contribute to a vibrant mane.
Navigating Hair Care Ingredients: What to Avoid
Dr. Nathan underscores the importance of mindful ingredient choices. She cautions against silicones, which can clog pores, as well as sulphates and synthetic fragrances, which may trigger irritation or allergies. Each hair follicle acts as a pore, absorbing substances applied to the scalp and hair. Making informed decisions about the products you use is essential for maintaining optimal scalp health and hair vitality.
In the pursuit of lush and vibrant hair, understanding the intricate interplay between scalp health and hair loss is paramount. By embracing a holistic approach that encompasses hormonal balance, proper nutrition, stress management, and thoughtful product choices, thin hair and hair loss is something we can address without medical intervention. We have rounded up some powerful allies in the pursuit of good hair and good scalp days. Every day.
Swiish Hair and Metabolism
A daily oral supplement featuring naturally derived Iodine from the seaweed Ascophyllum nodosum, together with a clinically proven combo of Zinc, Biotin (Vitamin B7) and Riboflavin (Vitamin B2). A powerful internal booster to support hair growth, hair health with the added benefit of metabolic function.
60 capsules $49.95
Vegamour Gro Scalp Detoxifying Serum
Used weekly in addition to the famed GRO Serum, this comprehensive approach to scalp health incorporates the use of proprietary phyto-actives, vegan proteins and minerals designed to work in unison for optimal scalp and hair wellness. Vegan silk protein gently removes scalp buildup and helps to soothe scalp damage. Zinc PCA works to absorb excess oils while reducing scalp irritation and supporting the skin’s natural moisturising factor. Willowherb Extract reduces the appearance of flakiness while creating a healthy scalp microbiome. Wild Baobab and marula oils for antioxidant support and further moisturise, protect and balance the scalp.
60ml $65.00
Ellà Viè Scalp Elixir
Free of fragrance, preservatives, silicone, paraben, alcohol and phthalates, this organic and vegan Scalp Elixir is suitable for everyone, including very sensitive skin, to improve scalp health and boost hair growth. A combination of antioxidants, DHT blockers and calming ingredients such as lavender and rosemary can be massaged directly into the scalp 3-4 times a week for a relaxing and calming treatment. Results are visible in 3-6 months.
30ml $66
Hair Shots Thinning Peptides
This ingenious brand offers potent treatment shots that are added, not instead of, your favourite hair products. Thinning Peptides is a treatment serum that can be added to any hair product that can be applied to the scalp, such as your treatment or conditioner. This Hair Shot features a Bioactive Functional Keratin to strengthen hair anchoring and also lowers inflammatory response; Capixyl™ inhibits DHT and free radicals which interfere with the normal growth cycle, and it also stimulates the follicle. Peppermint Oil boosts circulation to bring more nutrients to the follicle. Topically, Panthenol and Propanidol keep hair flexible to prevent breakage.
15ml $40.00
Everblue Dandruff Repair Shampoo
New Zealand born Everblue is here to disrupt the industry with 97% naturally derived formulas and affordable clean hair care. A soothing, gentle formula for dandruff control or an irritated scalp. Clinically proven Piroctone Olamine targets the cause of dandruff, controlling the growth of microorganisms for a rebalanced scalp. Aloe Vera, Coconut Oil and Wheat Protein deeply hydrate for healthier scalp and stronger hair. Can be used with a scalp massager.
400ml $15.00
Wella Invigo Nutri Booster Nourishing Concentrate
The antidote to dry or over treated hair, the Wella Nutri-Enrich Complex contains Vitamin E to protect hair from further stress, Oleic Acid and Panthenol provide hair with moisture and nourishment plus Goji Berry, rich in vitamins, minerals and peptides. Apply ahead of conditioner or mask as a nutrient rich booster for hair health.
100ml $52.00
