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Posts Tagged ‘Hair Growth’

Hair Loss-cause, Prevention and Treatment

March 10th, 2010 hair extensions No comments

The adult scalp contains about 100,000 hair follicles. Everyday the scalp loses about 100 hairs and they will grow back in 5-6 weeks. Starting at age 40, the levels of by-product prolactin of testosterone of men increases, stimulating the production of the enzyme 5-alpha reductase that causes the conversion of testosterone to gihydro-testosterones DHT causing our hair to grow back thinner or not grown back at all. This causes an androgenic alopecia hair loss problem, since DHT shrinks the follicles causing hair thins and hair receding at the forehead, crown and temple for men and thins over the entire scalp for women. What causes hair loss.1. The Causes of Hair Lossa) AgingHuman aging is the biological process that is unavoidable but controllable with healthy diet with complex carbohydrates, green foods, garlic, onion, water and juices that will help to decrease the aging process in some degree. It also helps to reduce the amount of DHT produced in our body, result in postponing hair loss to our scalp.b) Mineral deficiencyMinerals such as calcium, iron, copper, chromium, iodine, zinc, and magnesium are necessary to maintain healthy hair growth. Mineral deficiency will reduce the chance to regulate the blood circulation that promotes healthy hair growth and thyroid hormones that prevent dry hair and hair loss as well as defects in hair color. Too much iron is toxic to your body. Be sure to talk to your doctor before taking any mineral supplement.c) Oxygen deficiencyOxygen deficiency in your blood weakens the hair follicles, leading to dryness of the scalp and hair loss. Uncontrolled diet that is high in saturated fat causes cholesterol building up in your arteries resulting in less oxygen in your blood stream. Also cigarette smoking and second hand smoke reduces the blood flow and increases the blood clotting activity of cells which would clog the blood flow and damage arteries causing oxygen deficiency and results in weaken of the hair follicles.d) Side affects of medication takenSome medications contains elements that might cause hair loss such as lithium, warfarin, heparin, and amphetamines. When hair loss is a side effect of a medication, hair growth usually returns to normal once the drug is stopped.e) Genetic hair lossHair loss is due to heredity. It is passed down from generation to generation. Genetic hair loss appears predominately in men, but may also appear in a few select women.2. Food to AvoidFoods that can cause hair loss and diminish hair growth.a) Saturated and Trans fatFoods such as meat, poultry, and fried foods contain high saturated fat. Foods such as margarine, cheese, and butter contain high amounts of trans fat. These foods cause cholesterol to build up in your arteries and small veins in your scalp resulting in less oxygen being delivered to the cell in your body, including the cells on the follicles.b) Foods that contain Aspartame and Monosodium GlutamateMonosodium Glutamate contain chemicals that causes weight gain, increased appetite and also causes various kinds of health problems such as hair loss.Aspartame contains toxic chemicals that make you gain weight, increases hunger and causes medical problems like migraines and poor blood circulation.c) SmokingAs we mentioned in the previous article, smoking can reduce blood flow to the scalp causing hardening in the arteries, limit blood flow and make hair loss worse.d) Artificial ColorArtifiicial color contains chemical compounds that take their toll on the body’s natural balance.Specific foods to avoid include colored drinks, color-coated candies, gummy and chewy candies, and many colored cereals.e) PreservativesThese are potentially toxic to the liver and kidneys that cause hair loss and prevent hair growth as we mentioned in the article “Hair loss part IV–regrow hair with Chinese herbs”.f) Food PackagingPolyvinyl chloride is a known carcinogen, and it’s often used as plastic food wrap. It is toxic with high amounts causing damage to the kidney and liver resulting in hair loss.g) SaltEating too much salt can lead to fluid retention and increased blood pressure that cause less oxygen to be delivered to the body’s cells including cells in your scalp in result of losing hair.3. Hair Loss Prevention and TreatmentI. Here are some important minerals that may help to prevent hair loss and promote hair re-growth:a) IronIron is involved in the oxygenation of your body’s red blood cells. It is essential for normal hair growth and maintaining healthy hair. If the amount of iron can not be replaced with food intake, iron deficiency will cause hair loss because of oxygen deficiency.b) ZincIt helps to secrete the scalp with much needed oil and avoid dandruff that may cause hair loss.c) CopperStudy shows that these tripeptide complexes may actually be able to regrow hair, even in patients with total hair loss due to alopecia. Healthy tissue concentrations of copper lie between 1.7 and 3.5 milligrams. Everything else will cause hair loss.d) B vitaminsThe deficiency of B vitamins (especially B6, B3, B5 and folic acid) in your diet may lead to hair loss.e) BiotinBiotin works as an anti aging agent and helps to produce keratin in preventing gray hair and hair loss.Sources of biotin are: whole grains, egg yolks, liver, rice and milk.f) Vitamin AVitamin A is important for over-all good health. It’s also beneficial to hair follicles, as it keeps the hair root lubricated. Too much vitamin A might result in hair loss.g) Vitamin EVitamin E acts as an antioxidant that aids effective circulation in the scalp due to increased oxygen uptake in blood, therefore it plays an important role in promoting hair growth and preventing hair loss.h) CQ-10Coenzyme Q10 (CQ-10) is an essential vitamin that provides our body with the nutrients needed to grow healthy hair. They also promote overall vitality, and contribute to beautiful skin and strong nails.II. Here are some daily foods that might help to prevent hair loss and promote hair re-growth1. Yogurt and soyYogurt and soy contain high amounts of protein that is needed to maintain hair growth. Study shows that soy protein reinforces hair and stimulates its growth.2. Dark green vegetableDark green vegetable contains high amounts of iron that are needed to restore oxygen levels in the blood stream as well as nurturing the body’s cells.3.Whole grain productsWhole grain contains zinc which is needed to maintain healthy hair. Zinc deficiency can lead to dry hair and oily skin.4. Essential fatty acidEssential fatty acid can be found abundant in cold water fish. It helps to maintain healthy cholesterol and reduce triglyceride in result of increasing circulation of blood flow in our body.6. Nut and seedNuts and seeds are fatty foods which are typically the best sources of vitamin E, an immune enhancing antioxidant and nerve protector. Deficiency of vitamin E can lead to skin disorders, dry hair and loss of hair.7. CarrotsCarrots contain high amounts of vitamin A. It is an antioxidant that helps produce healthy sebum in the scalp. Having too much vitamin A can lead to hair loss.There are many other foods that help promote hair growth and prevent hair loss, such as fruits, egg, spinach, and broccoli.Be sure to talk to your doctor before taking large amounts of the above foods. There may be side effects, such as overdoses of vitamin A in carrot might result in hair loss.III. Traditionally, herbs have been around for over thousands of years and offer much success to prevent or cure diseases well before the discovery of western medicine. Here are some herbs thathave been proven in treating hair loss and promoting hair growtha) ShikakaiAcacia Concinna is a small shrub-like tree that grows in India. It’s pod-like fruit is collected, dried and then grounded into a fine powder. It is used to cleanse hair, and is known to promote hair growth and get rid of dandruff. Due to these benefits, this powder was named shikakai which means “fruit for the hair”.b) Grape seed extractGrape seed extract is a very strong antioxidant that some use as a supplement or remedy to various conditions. It contains high levels of vitamin E and essential fatty acids that are essential for maintaining hair growth and preventing hair loss.c) Kirin Brewery new discoveryJapanese cosmetics company Shiseido working with Kirin Brewery has discovered a unique property of an extract of hops that can help to activate the melanocyte cells that generate hair pigment.d) Saw palmettoAs we mentioned in another article, Saw palmetto is the number one choice for men. Saw palmetto helps to block the formation of 5-alpha reductase, an enzyme that causes the conversion of testosterone to DHT that causes hair loss.e) Basil extractBasil Extract from the natural flowers of the basil plant, works to quickly soothe and calm skin of the scalp.f) Pumpkin SeedPumpkin seeds help to block DHT, which is responsible for genetic hair loss. This common seed is loaded with zinc and magnesium that have the ability to block enzymes which yield DHT causing damage to follicles and resulting in hair loss.g) Buddleja Davidii ExtractBuddleja Davidii extract contain active ingredients protecting the skin against toxic radicals. It can also help reduce skin aging and protect the skin against the damage caused from stresses and toxins.h) Green TeaGreen tea contains the chemical globulin that helps to reduce levels of free testosterone, so that it cannot be converted to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the hair follicle.Be sure to talk to your doctor or dermatologist before taking any herb supplement.IV. Traditionally Chinese herbs have been around for over 4000 years and have offered much success to prevent or cure diseases well before the discovery of western medicine. Hair loss is directly linked to kidney deficiency syndrome in Chinese traditional medicine. People with hair loss problems especially in their early life may have a weak Kidney. Here are some Chinese herbs that have been proven in treating hair loss and promoting hair growtha) Dong QuaiTraditionally, Chinese woman used Dong Quai to restore blood cells and increase the circulation of oxygen in the bloodstream to cells after period. Dong Quai contains phytoestrogen that helps to block the androgen receptor site in result of blocking the conversion of testerone to DHT, therefore reducing the chance of hair loss due to aging.b) GinsengGinseng is said to have the power of rejuvenating and energizing the body. It also helps to stimulate circulation of oxygen in our bloodstream to the cells of our body as well as the cells in our scalp.c) Shou wu (polygonum)Shou Wu is a polygonum multiflorum plant. It is now being used in conjuncture with other herbals, as an active ingredient in shampoos and orally administered to prevent hair loss as well as aiding the restoration of roots and production of new hair.d) Psoralea seedsStudy shows that psoralea extract and exposure to ultra violet light will help to restore hair loss and promote hair regrowth with a 33% success rate.e) MulberryChinese herbalists believe that mulberry is an excellent tonic for the kidney, liver and blood that provides more oxygen in the bloodstream as well as small blood vessels in the scalp.f) Chinese YamNumerous successful studies have been performed in examining the benefits of the Chinese yam. Chinese yam can help to nourish the liver, kidney and blood in result of preventing hair loss and promoting hair growth.g) Green teaGreen tea containing catechins inhibit the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase that converts testosterone into hair-unfriendly DHT. So drinking great tea everyday is an effective treatment for male pattern baldness.h) Chinese foxblove rootChinese foxblove root contains cornus, the chemical that help to nurture the kidney, liver and blood in result of promoting hair growth.i) Wolf berryOne of the natural superfoods has been used in traditional Chinese cooking. Wolf berry helps to eliminate toxins in the body in result of better function of the kidney, liver and blood that help to promote hair growth.Chinese medicine believes that the benefit of nourishing the kidney and blood tonic helps for healthy hair growth and preventing hair loss.V. Here are some prescription and over the counter drugs that might help prevent further hair loss and promote hair growth.1.MinoxidilMinoxidil is an over the counter drug and is a spray or lotion that you put directly on your scalp twice a day. It is available without a prescription. It is believed to work by affecting potassium- regulating mechanisms in the hair follicle. Study shows that it helps to slow and stop hair loss and regrow new hair with over 60 % success rate. Be sure talk to your doctor or dermatologist before taking minoxidil. It might cause rash to some patients.2.FinasterideFinastteride is an oral prescription medication. Finasteride is a synthetic hormone that halts hair loss and stimulates new hair growth. It is a medication that selectively inhibits the activity of an enzyme that converts the “male hormone” testosterone into a form that is active in hair follicles.3.RogaineRogaine is a clear alcohol-based solution and should be applied to a person’s thinning area with it’s supplied dropper or spray twice a day. It helps about 25 percent of men and 20 percent of women to grow back moderate amounts of hair very gradually, mostly on the very top of the head. They must keep using Rogaine indefinitely to keep the new hair.4.Retin-ARetin-A is only available by prescription in the US. In the right doses and when combined with Minoxidil it can be a hair growth stimulator. Studies shows that Retin- A can result in moderate hair growth in some patients.5 ProscarProscar contains the same active ingredient finasteride. Proscar has the effect of lowering the hormone DHT, which interacts with bald vulnerable hair follicles and causes hair loss. By reducing the DHT in the patient’s body the finasteride in the Proscar proved to slow and even stop or reverse hair loss in many men.Before taking any hair loss medication over the counter, please consult first with your doctor or dermatologist.I hope this information will help. If you need more information of the above subject, please visit my home page at:

Kyle J. Nortonhttp://medicaladvisorjournals.blogspot.com/http://hairlossandhairregrowth.blogspot.com/

http://hairlosspartiii.blogspot.com/All rights reserved. Any reproducing of this article must have all the links intact.

Using Hair Growth Remedies to See Quicker Results

March 9th, 2010 hair extensions No comments

Hair growth remedies have become the most turned to form of treatment for those looking to regrow their hair and fight hair loss.

While there are a lot of options to choose from in treating thin hair and alopecia, there doesn’t seem to be a better route to take than the natural approach. The benefits are tremendous.

You never have to worry about side effects, expensive price tags on products, and you’re practically guaranteed to grow more hair from the use of them. You can easily obtain the benefits of natural hair growth remedies to help solve your hair problems as well.

There are several to choose from but I’m going to tell you about a few of them you may not have thought about. Have you heard of the benefits of using olive oil as an aid to hair growth? It works like a miracle to lift trapped dirt and oil from your follicle roots.

What you can do is apply about a teaspoonful to your scalp and massage it in using your fingertips. Allow it to settle on the scalp overnight then rinse out the following morning with a mild shampoo cleanser.

You don’t have to do this every single day for an extended period of time to see new hair growth take place. Just do it for one week or two weeks. It’s quite a unique remedy for hair growth.

On top of olive oil there’s also the use of mustard seeds added to boiling water. This is one of the strangest hair growth remedies around that I’ve seen to date. What you do with the mustard seeds is take about a tablespoonful of them.

Place those seeds in a cup of water and boil them for about 5 minutes. After that just drink this mixture. Not the best tasting beverage you’ve ever had but it gets the job done. Give it a try for quicker hair growth without the hassles of those expensive treatments out there.

Thinning Hair In Women-Stopping Female Hair loss

March 8th, 2010 hair extensions No comments

If you are a thinning hair woman who is losing hair at a frightful rate. You need to read this. You have several options to fix thinning hair problems

The best product to use for preventing thinning hair for woman would be Mira hair oil. I say this because it is all natural and unlike other products it will not deposit chemicals into your blood stream through your scalp

You need to understand the causes of female hair loss. For women baldness is not a common trait and if it happens it is usually the result of

For the first cause of female hair loss you want to make sure that you are consuming good clean food, stop taking in fatty foods, foods with chemicals and stop eating too much sugar. Thinning hair women can be reversed by making sure you eat well and that you are getting all the nutrients you need. To stop hair loss you also want to make sure you are drinking lots of water

Thinning hair in women is not natural! And as a woman you need to be growing hair at one-half inch per month or even more – understand that all females and males lose about 100 hairs each day, but we also grow hair at a faster rate

Thinning hair and female hair loss results when the growing of hair is less than the hair loss

Thinning hair in women results because some women have a genetic predisposition to hair loss – what happens is that a group of hormones called androgens interferes with this natural process of hair growth. The common androgen hormones include: testosterone, androsteinedione, and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) — all of which are common in men’s bodies in large amounts, in female they occur in smaller amounts

And in women’s bodies in small amounts.

Female hair loss results when an over abundance of these hormones are produced which then come in contact with then binds with receptors deep within the hair follicle.- this binding is a cause of female hair loss because it causes the hair follicles to shrink which then disrupts the natural resting and growth phases of the hair,- the result is

Female hair loss. Another cause of thinning hair is women is hormone imbalance- in proper hormone production will tend to make females lose hairs in clumps or batches

Disease like: thyroid disorders, anemia, even chronic illness or the use of certain medications may also be the cause of female hair

Thinning hair women –women who are under stress or a lot of pressure also tend to lose hair. The solution is relaxation and some yoga, one must learn to glance the mind and keep it relaxed

And the last cause of female hair loss are the chemicals found in commercial hair products. People don’t like to talk about this but it is important, the accumulation of chemical in hair products on the scalp can clog hair pores and strangle hair follicles, allowing your hair to fall out at an alarming rate

The very best way to stop this is to use a product like Mira hair oil that cleans detoxifies the scalp, allowing your hair follicles to breathe and then grow at a fast rate!

Even if you chose to use chemical hair products, at least use them with a cleaner like Mira hair oil- it will prevent thinning hair in women

Discover Smart Organic Products That Naturally Increase Hair Growth By Over 300%

March 8th, 2010 hair extensions No comments

 

Do you want to provide your hair with 37 unique antioxidants on a regular basis? Do you wish to get rid of inflammation on you scalp just today? Do you want to stop your awful hair loss / balding and increase hair growth by over 300%? Then read on this article to find out amazing facts about the newest and revolutionary hair care line: Smart Organic Products. 

Who would not like to nourish his/her hair with 37 unique antioxidants, eliminate scalp inflammation and stop hair loss or balding within 15 days? 

Of course, every person who is suffering from hair problems or diseases! Therefore I’d like to share amazing facts about Smart Organic Products which I’ve discovered recently. 

As a beauty Expert and Researcher, I’m always researching recent beauty studies and events in modern beauty market, trying to find out the best and latest beauty cosmetics. So these days, I’ve discovered great hair cosmetics – Smart Organic Products which are really wise and revolutionary solution for all hair problems. 

Neither its effects, nor its ingredients are similar to other organic hair products. I was really amazed when I found that this amazing organic hair cosmetics line, newly released by one of the US companies, contain exotic African red tea with 37 unique antioxidants. I do not even note about its other great ingredient – apple polyphenols that naturally increase hair growth by over 300%. Now can you imagine the big use of Smart Organic Products to your hair? 

By using Smart Organic Products which comes as a 3-in-1 solution (organic shampoo, conditioner and serum) you can stop your hair loss or balding within 15 days. This is not my own opinion, but real fact that has been scientifically proven! 

48% Of Women Have Thinning Hair!

March 6th, 2010 hair extensions No comments

How your hair grows

Your hair is made of keratin (KER-uh-tin), the same protein that makes up your nails and the outer layer of your skin. The part you see and style is called the hair shaft. It’s actually dead tissue made by your hair follicles tiny bulb-like structures beneath your scalp’s surface.

Learn More About——->womens hair loss natural treatments

We have all heard of someone who has thinning hair problem, but do we really know how extensive this thinning hair problem is? Let us take a look at the figures here..

1. 70 million Americans Have Fine or Thin-looking Hair And it’s Growing2. 4 million more women and 4.7 million more men will have noticeably thin-looking hair by 20053. By age 65, 48% of all women report they have thinning hair and 75% of all men report they have noticeably thin-looking hair.4. Research has shown that the problem of thin-looking hair can begin as early as age 17.5. The problem will grow more extreme as our population ages.

How does hair loss start?

Hair loss is a normal symptom. 50 to 60 hairs are shed each day from a normal scalp. Losing more than 60 hairs a day is called excessive hair loss and leads to generalized thinning of the hair. Hair becomes fine in texture. Loss of hair in men is often determined by heredity or by the Allopetia Androgenetic hormone. Hair loss in women is often caused by pregnancy, stress, fatigue or medical treatment.

Can Thyroid Disease Cause Hair Loss?

An overactive or underactive thyroid can cause hair loss. One may get her thyroid numbers in order after beginning a regimen of thyroid medication. However, there have been reported cases of women experiencing hair loss FROM the thyroid medication.

Hot Tips!

Coloring: If you inherited a tendency for hair loss, you likely have very healthy hair overall. Therefore, your hair can benefit from permanent or semi-permanent color to give body and volume to hair.

Volumizing Products: Many volume-building hair products contain paraffin, which is beeswax. That’s not good for hair, because it builds up and can make hair break.

However, volumizing products sold in salons do help. They won’t weigh hair down, and they won’t damage it. Mousse, for example, can be applied at the root area for support. Then, begin blow-drying the root area, applying tension with a brush to build volume. Use a light finishing spray to hold it.

 

Male Hair Loss – Male Hair Restoration

March 5th, 2010 hair extensions No comments

Protein, vitamin deficiency, thyroid (under active and overactive), stress, medication, age and hereditary factors are responsible for male pattern baldness. These are the common reasons for hair fall. There are other causes for male pattern baldness.

Men usually experience baldness at the temples and crown. This makes them look ugly and gradually deteriorates their self confidence. DHT also known as dihydrotestosterone damages the hair follicle and makes it thinner. Few men suffer from fungal scalp infection, under active thyroid and iron deficiency which may also lead to hair problems. Understandably, male hair loss is more common because males have more androgens in their system.

Factors that lead to hair problems are:

Protein deficiencyVitamin deficiencyScalp infectionOver active and under active thyroidMedication andStress factor

Do not panic if you are suffering from thyroid dysfunction and vitamin deficiency. These are simple to treat and if you suspect you might have one (or both) of these medical conditions you can consult the doctor. Get your hair treated in the right time.

Understand the fact that hair loss results from a complex chemical reaction when the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase converts the testosterone in the system into DHT or dihydrotestosterone. Your hair problem arises when it is exposed to such excessive DHT chemical. They eventually become so small they are unable to replace hair that is lost. The follicles are still alive, however they are no longer able to perform their task.  By reducing the amount of DHT that can affect a man’s hair follicles hair loss can be slowed or even stopped.

Doctors advise that Propecia and Rogaine help arrest hair fall and hair transplants can restore hair that was lost. Nettle root and saw palmetto are important herbs used to treat hair problems. It is proved very beneficial for hair growth and should be used in conjunction with these ingredients. Minoxidil is another important drug used to treat male hair pattern baldness.  It is also popularly known as Rogaine in the US and as Regaine outside the US. Regaine is a hair tonic used on the scalp uniformly and not just in the areas where the hair loss is occurring. In women, this drug has shown many adverse side effects such as low blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, chest pain. Such medications are available for both men and women actually, in concentrations of 5% and 2% respectively. Consider the side effects of such medications before using them. Your doctor will be the right person to help you deal with your hair problems.

 

Get Healthy Hair Now – How To Grow Long, Healthy Hair

November 20th, 2009 hair extensions No comments

Get Healthy Hair Now – How to Grow Long, Healthy Hair

Growing long, beautiful and healthy hair is not an extremely difficult process. It does not require the upscale hair products hawked by salons, handfuls of expensive vitamins, or any sort of sacrifice to the long hair gods. What it does take is common sense, dedication, and a lot of patience. Indeed, growing long hair is actually more a question of what you shouldn’t do rather than what you should!

If you make the commitment to closely follow the twenty steps below, not only will you grow long hair but your hair will be in beautiful condition throughout the process.

This guide was written specifically for the person who wants to grow extremely long hair – waist, hip, knee-length or even longer, but it will benefit anyone who is seeking longer locks. Keeping your hair in excellent condition, at extreme lengths, takes more caution and conscious effort than it would if you intend to keep your hair shorter, at mid-back length for example. If your goal is to encourage healthy hair growth but not to the extreme, then certain modifications may be made to a few of the steps below and still maintain successful results. If you use common sense and don’t allow damage to occur, you know you’re doing the right thing to promote healthy hair at any length.

It is also important to keep in mind that just about everyone has a “terminal length” which is the longest your hair will grow based on the active growth period of your hair follicles (the growth cycle of individual hair follicles turns on and off as determined by your genetics). Nothing here can help you alter your genetically predetermined terminal length. That being said, you’d be surprised how incredibly often what was thought to be terminal length turns out to be nothing more than hair too damaged to continue to grow… an easily resolved issue!

Hair loss, extreme dryness or any sudden change in your hair’s condition may be due to a medical condition, often thyroid issues. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is imperative that you seek advice from a qualified medical practitioner rather than from this guide. That being said, you might want to check out our disclaimer below.

Please feel free to experiment and tweak the below steps to best suit your own hair type and growth goals.

1.  The first step to growing long, beautiful hair is by far the most important. It is absolutely non-negotiable for anyone who wants healthy hair at any length, but it is also by far the hardest step you will have to follow. In order to have long healthy hair you absolutely have to start with healthy hair. You must cut off every inch that is considerably damaged. If you are going for extreme length, from that point on you will have to treat your hair like delicate, antique lace at all times. Remember, once your hair is at your waist the ends can be as many as six years old. Your hair will go through a lot of trauma in six years no matter how careful you are with it. Because there is absolutely no way to repair damaged hair, you must start out with healthy hair to have healthy hair when it’s long, there’s no way around it. If your hair is not very damaged up the entire shaft, you may start with a very healthy trim and then continue to trim monthly to maintain your length until all the damage is gone; however, keep in mind that if the amount of damage does not continue to decrease using this method, you didn’t remove enough of the damaged hair to begin with and another healthy trim is in order. You’ll save precious time by removing as much damage as possible from the very beginning and immediately implementing the steps that follow to your now beautifully healthy hair!  Remember, long damaged hair is never as pretty as shorter healthy hair, and because healthy hair needs to be trimmed less often and doesn’t break as easily, the result is much faster growth overall. I learned this step the hard way and wasted ten years trying to grow damaged hair I refused to cut… hair that started literally growing like a weed when I finally bit the bullet, did the dirty deed and stopped doing all the horrible nasties that initially resulted in the damage. Duh. Learn from my pain.2.  Always trim your hair often. Damage to your hair will move up from the ends and the only way to stop the damage in its tracks is to remove it as soon as it happens. Trim hair a half inch every month or so (the average rate of hair growth) if you are maintaining your length. If you are actively growing your hair, trim it a half inch every three or four months. In between trims it is beneficial to sit in bright light and snip any splits off the ends of individual hairs with a good pair of hair cutting scissors. If you are persistent with this method, regular trims may be able to be postponed even longer. If your hair begins to show damage, it is important to trim it more often! Damaged hair doesn’t grow, it breaks, and damage will only increase with time.3.  If you don’t have someone you trust implicitly to trim your hair for you, find a salon that caters to long hair, has a long hair specialist, or at least be sure to glare at your stylist as menacingly as you can while you clearly explain your hair-growth goals before letting her come at you with scissors. It also helps to ask the stylist to show you exactly their perception of the amount of hair you want trimmed by showing you what they think is the same distance from the end of their comb. It also helps to remember, it is not in the best interest of most salons or stylists if you rarely make visits to their salon, which is definitely a conflict of interest! If your hair is short and styled, you are always there spending money for maintenance. If your stylist tries to convince you that your long, healthy hair should be cut, run screaming from the salon immediately! Make sure that anyone whose advice you consider, be it a stylist, friend or family member, has only the best interest of YOUR acknowledged hair growth goals in mind. Otherwise smile politely and ignore every word they say. You absolutely are not too old, too thin, too short, too gray, too anything to have long hair.4.  Avoid using any heated appliances whenever possible. No blow drying, no curling irons, no hot rollers, and especially no flat irons or crimpers! If you absolutely must blow dry do so minimally, and contrary to popular belief, it is best to let your hair dry naturally for as long as possible and use the blow dryer just to finish it off at the end if you must. If you must use hot rollers, use flocked or soft rollers, not spiked plastic rollers. If you insist on using curling irons, flat irons or crimpers on a daily basis, really long healthy hair isn’t in your future. If you do use heat on your hair, be sure to use a product that will help protect your hair from it and keep in mind that every time you apply that heat you are likely to cause some damage.5.  Don’t use any harsh chemicals on your hair. Definitely no perms and no peroxide! If you must color, use non peroxide color, henna (but not if you have very dry hair… henna tends to be drying but does help to “plump up” fine hair), or even make your own natural hair color. Hair color with low peroxide is more tolerable, but using these products again and again will eventually affect the health of your hair, it is unavoidable. No perming or straightening ever for any reason. These chemicals actually break down the structure of your hair and completely rebuild it… no other chemicals meant to be applied to hair are more damaging. Don’t do it.6.  Avoid chlorine and saltwater. If you go swimming in either, shampoo your hair as soon as possible after exposure. If you are blonde, you may want to consider using a shampoo specially formulated to remove the green tinge that can come from exposing your hair to chlorine. If you swim very often, invest in a good bathing cap (and to be really kind to your hair, apply deep conditioner and take advantage of the body heat that will be generated while you’re wearing it). If you spend a lot of time in the sun, use a conditioner that provides SPF protection against the sun’s rays, or cover your hair with a tightly-woven hat or scarf.7.  Be extremely careful of what kind of hair jewelry you use. Never use metal barrettes (the “French” style) and absolutely NEVER use rubber bands, they will tear your hair when you try to remove them. Avoid anything that has sharp or rough edges, such as plastic combs with rough seams or hair claws with metal hinges. Never put anything in your hair that attaches with Velcro or springs. If you take anything out of your hair and a significant amount of hair comes out with it, don’t ever put it back in your hair. Scrunchies are very hair-safe, and several can be used if your hair is very long. 8.  Never put your hair in any kind of style that will put undue stress on the individual hairs… no tiny braids, no extremely tight coils. If you pull all or some of your hair into a braid or a ponytail to create your hairstyle, make sure it isn’t pulled tight enough to put stress on the roots of your hair. Pulling hair tight repeatedly commonly results in bald patches! If you go after the long hair “quick fix” and put extensions in your hair, be forewarned that your own hair will likely be significantly more damaged when they are removed than it was to begin with. Dreads almost always have to be cut off to be removed and are tremendously damaging to hair.9.  Avoid extreme diets. If your body isn’t getting enough nutrition, neither is your hair. Even if you try to avoid fat, it’s essential that you don’t completely eliminate all fat from your diet. Your hair (and body) will surely suffer for it. If you tend to restrict calories then be sure to take a multivitamin (any comprehensive one will do) to make sure both your body and your hair get the daily nourishment they need.10.  Be very gentle with your hair when it is wet. Don’t rub your hair vigorously with a towel; gently squeeze the towel down the length of your hair.  NEVER brush your hair when it’s wet, this is when your hair is at its most delicate. Use a very wide-tooth comb to smooth wet hair. In fact, it is best to avoid brushing your hair under most circumstances, a wide-tooth comb is almost always a better choice.11.  Be very careful with what you choose to style your hair. When you do use a brush, use only natural boar bristle brushes, which are useful in distributing sebum (your hair’s natural protective oils) to the ends of your hair and to remove loose hairs. If your hair is so thick that a boar bristle brush won’t penetrate, there are several smooth wood brushes on the market that will be kind to your hair. Using a wide-tooth comb is far less damaging but it is important to choose a comb that is molded or has smooth seams (use a bit of sand paper to smooth rough seams if necessary). Comb your hair often throughout the day to detangle it. Work in small sections, always starting close to the ends, combing down in long, smooth strokes until all tangles are removed, and then starting the next set of strokes higher on the same section of hair. Knots are very hard on your hair and it’s best to avoid them at all costs. Tiny knots that absolutely cannot be removed by any other means should be cut from your hair, not torn. Also, avoid back combing or “teasing” your hair with a fine-tooth comb. This lifts and tears the cuticle, destroying even the healthiest of hair in a very short period of time.12.  Comb your hair to ensure all knots have been removed before shampooing. After the knots have been removed, use a boar bristle brush to remove loose hairs, which will also cut down on knotting during shampooing.13.  Let your hair get dirty once in awhile. That’s right… permission to be lazy, what more could you ask for? Don’t shampoo, spend the entire weekend in bed drinking, eating chocolate covered strawberries, all while those wonderful natural conditioning oils work their magic. Don’t forget the boar bristle brush before shampooing to distribute those oils. 14.  Don’t pile your hair on your head when you wash it, that’s just asking for knots. I recommend using shampoos free of Sodium Lauryl Sulphate or Sodium Laureth Sulphate.  Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS) is a harsh (caustic) detergent that can “actually damage the outer layer of the skin, the stratum corneum, causing dryness, roughness, scaliness, fissuring, loss of flexibility and reduction of the barrier functions of normal healthy skin.  The lipid dissolving action of some detergents, including SLS, cause damage to the moisture retaining ability of the cellular level resulting in water loss and loss of water-binding ability” (Cosmetic Science, C. Prottey, 1978).   Apply shampoo only to the roots and wash your scalp, then work the shampoo to the ends. You may find adding a bit of water to your shampoo or very quickly ducking under the shower spray after initially applying it to your hair will increase lathering significantly, making it easier to work the soap to the ends of your tresses. When you apply conditioner, work it through to the ends of your hair, smoothing and detangling gently with your fingers as you go. Continue smoothing your hair as you rinse. This will make combing your wet hair much easier and less likely to tear.15.  If you wash your hair often or have very dry hair, you may want to consider using only conditioner to wash it on occasion. If your hair isn’t very dirty the conditioner will easily rinse away surface contaminants16.  Rinse your hair in as cold water as you can stand. Not only will this make the cuticle lay flat and less likely to snag and break, but by the same token you’ll get the added benefit of very shiny hair that’s easier to comb wet. Yes, you will get used to doing this, even in the shower, and it is wonderfully invigorating for your whole body, not just your hair17.  If your hair is especially coarse, extremely curly, you didn’t heed my stern advice in Step 1 and your hair is damaged or if it is prone to damage easily, you may want to consider using a leave-in conditioner in addition to a regular rinse-out conditioner.  In some cases, leave-in conditioners may replace rinse-out conditioners altogether.18.  Become familiar with the ingredients in your styling products. Once you know what affects your hair positively or detrimentally, you will be able to effectively choose products that contain ingredients that are best for your hair type. For instance, some people find that their hair does not respond well to silicone products (found in most “smoothing” or “anti frizz” products and many conditioning shampoos), if used over a long period of time. Any ingredient that ends with the suffix “cone” in the ingredient list is usually a silicone derivative and should be avoided by those sensitive to it.  Products that nourish your hair with natural are excellent alternatives to the chemical laden, overpriced high-end lines sold in department stores and salons (I can personally recommend HerbalNature Alternative Hair Products). Either way, what matters most is to use whatever works best for your hair, not what is necessarily the hottest trendy product or for that matter, the most cost efficient product. By the same token, it helps to clarify your hair as often as needed by rinsing with a mixture of apple cider vinegar and water. to remove build-up of product in your hair and avoid the damage to the cuticle this can cause if left unchecked. As a whole, this is one step to growing long, healthy hair in which using common sense rather than falling victim to marketing ploys plays a huge role.19.  Deep condition your hair at least monthly, even if it’s in good shape this will help keep it that way. If your hair is dry or damaged, deep condition weekly. Hot oil treatments are a good alternative for very dry hair or for extra conditioning (but be forewarned, to some extent hot oil treatments will lift any non permanent color you’ve added). You might want to try washing and applying conditioner at night, wearing a shower cap to bed, and rinsing in the morning for a really intense conditioning treatment as well. A word to the wise… conditioning nights have been conclusively proven to be detrimental to romantic evenings with the significant other. Use this information to your own best advantage based on the current status of your relationship.20.  Lessen the friction on your hair whenever possible. Don’t sleep with your hair loose or if you must, use a satin pillowcase. If your hair is very long and prone to getting caught in car windows, seat belts, doors, or even under your butt when you sit down, it’s important to remember that all these things can cause damage to your precious locks. Wear your hair braided or in an updo hairstyle whenever possible to avoid daily wear and tear. And we all know, no matter what promises hair product manufacturers claim, the ONLY way to fix damaged hair is to CUT IT OFF… perish the thought!

http://www.gethealthyhairnow.com

Thin, Fine, Or Thinning Hair?

November 15th, 2009 hair extensions No comments

Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata is an immune disease that affects almost 2% of the population in the US. This type of hair loss appears in various degrees of severity from small, round patches of hair loss that regrow without medical treatment to chronic, extensive hair loss that can involve the loss of all hair on the scalp or body hair. This type of hair loss affects both genders equally and can occur at any age, although it occurs most often in children and young adults.
Orthodox Treatments for Hair Loss
Doctors aim to treat the underlying cause. If a patient has iron deficiency anaemia they’ll be given iron tablets. If current medication seems to be causing hair loss, GPs may consider prescribing alternative medication or changing the dosage. In certain cases, they may also suggest minoxidil liquid to encourage hair growth or recommend hair transplants.
Thin, fine or thinning hair?
These three terms are often used in the same breath when talking about thinning hair. However, they each mean something different.
1. Thin hair
If you have thin hair, it means you physically have a small number of hair follicles on your scalp. Blondes normally have the most hairs, around 140,000, with redheads having fewer, around 90,000.
2. Fine hair
Although blondes have more hair follicles, the actual diameter of their hair strands are normally smaller, making it appear ‘fine’. Hairs that are coarse have wider, ‘thicker’ hairs.
3. Thinning hair
When hair is thinning, it means that the scalp is in the process of losing hair. This can be due to a variety of conditions. The most common cause is androgenetic alopecia (hereditary hair loss).
Treatment for Alopecia Areata
Treatment of this type of hair loss includes immunomodulating therapies such as glucocorticoids, topical immunotherapy, or anthralin, or biologic-responce modifiers such as Minoxidil. The choice of treatment depends on the patient’s age, as well as the extent of hair loss. Milder cases often see a greater improvement with treatment than severe cases. In no case does treatment restore full hair in patients with 100% scalp or body hair loss.
Due to a lack of credible information, many women are still confused about the reason for their thinning hair and hair loss. So, get your Hair Loss Facts straight at http://www.hairlossfact.info

Hair Loss Caused By Biotin Deficiency

November 12th, 2009 hair extensions No comments

It is one hundred percent true that Biotin plays an important role in the prevention of hair loss. According to nutritionists biotin is an important vitamin for hair growth. It is also highly advisable to take biotin in addition to other medcial treatments such Minoxidil, Poscar or Propecia.
Most of the human population consider hair loss as a social embarrassment. Occurrence of hair loss in mid twenties of either sex will definitely affect one’s self-confidence. There are various therapies available to prevent hair loss. Most people are having this question in their mind- How to prevent hair loss?
Biotin and hair loss are inter related. Deficiency of biotin may cause unhealthy and breakage of hair, which might finally lead to hair loss. Biotin is an important component not only to new hair growth but also keeps the skin and nails in perfect health.
Try to avoid raw eggs in your diet since the high amount of protein contained in raw egg binds biotin and makes it non-available to the body which in turn causes deficiency of biotin and hair loss. Always use shampoo, which is enriched with biotin and silica for preventing hair loss.
Supplements are necessary to restore B12 levels, which will completely prevent hair loss. Since Biotin and hair loss are closely related, it is highly advisable to include biotin regularly in your food.
Food containing a lot of biotin are egg yolks and liver. You would have to consume thousands of calories daily to get what your hair needs. That’s why I suggest biotin supplements.
People with blood type A don’t have the ability to absorb B vitamins. As we already know Biotin, a family member of Vitamin B, is required for hair growth. Adding high doses of 58 grams to your food twice daily will prevent hair loss extensively. No side effects are known.
Biotin and hair loss are closely related. So good food full of biotin include brewer’s yeast, green peas, oats, soybeans, walnuts, sunflower seeds, green peas, bulgur and brown rice may definitely help to prevent hair loss.
You should be aware that persons with heartburn, acid reflux, or GERD that are taking antacids may absorb biotin less and hair loss may definitely occur.
So avoid over-the-counter medications of antacids for better assimilation of Biotin and hair loss prevention.
Biotin is hair food! If you suffer from hair loss I highly recommend taking a biotin supplement and using a biotin enriched shampoo.

The Causes Of Hair Loss In Women

November 12th, 2009 hair extensions No comments

In general women’s hair loss does not result in total hair loss as like that of men. Even though women’s hair loss is partial, it is devastating for the individual when it does happen.
The psychological impact of women’s hair loss is extensive when compared to men since women consider their hair as a vital part of their beauty and find it to be an important part of their outer appearance.
Women’s hair loss has different reasons. Heredity is one of those. Moreover the treatment of women’s hair loss is entirely different than that of men, because the medication offered for re-growth of hair may cause the growth of hair on other parts of the body such as chest, back, and face. Most women don’t like facial hair growth.
Women suffering from hair loss need to consult a doctor to find out what causes the hair loss. Once the cause has been ascertained, the physician will be able to prescribe the suitable medication. For women’s hair loss, many physicians prescribe estrogen to correct the condition.
Women’s hair loss can be treated with glucocorticoids. Topical application of Minoxodil or Anthralin is the only recommended treatment available for women’s hair loss. Women’s hair loss in the initial stage can be treated well and the response to the treatment is also extremely good. So if you are losing hair, see a doctor as soon as possible.
An important condition called Androgenic alopecia is found to be affecting about 2% of the population. This condition causes complete hair loss all over the body. Women’s hair loss falling under this category is found to be difficult to cure. Doctors may prescribe certain medicines to reduce the symptoms of Androgenic alopecia.
Women which just gave birth to a child also suffer from hair loss very often. This type of hair loss is temporary and may stop within 6 months after birth. This is mainly due to the fact that there is a higher estrogen level during pregnancy, which might result in keeping the hair follicles in the growth phase.
Immediately after childbirth, there is a sudden withdrawl of estrogen, which may cause the hair to enter into the hair loss phase. Hair may grow again after 6 months, but applying hair tonic may hasten re-growth of hair.
Sometimes crash diets may lead to women’s hair loss and also rapid weight loss over a short period. In addition to this, emotional and physical stress may also result in hair loss. Immediately after the alleviation of the stress, the hair falling will be stopped.
Frequent dyeing and chemicals e.g. Perming solutions used on hair may cause hair falling. This condition may occur when a woman uses chemicals very frequently. The hair begins to break off. The hair falling treatment products when applied on the scalp may strengthen the follicles.
Once you have identified the main cause of hair loss, choose the right treatment at the right time to ensure better hair growth. In most serious cases of women’s hair loss, it is always advisable to seek the help of a dermatologist for complete diagnosis and treatment plan.