As you get older, your body goes through several changes. Your joints may be more brittle, your muscles less toned, and your hair may seem more thin. Hair loss is a natural occurrence that many men will experience at some point in their lives. While it can’t always be prevented, with these six tips, you can learn to prioritize yourself amid your hair loss.
Consider Medications
There are various treatment options you can try to stimulate hair growth. One of the most common hair loss medication options available is finasteride. This medication is specifically formulated to help men who are experiencing male pattern baldness. It reduces dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels — a hormone that shrinks hair follicles. By lowering these hormone levels, bristles can grow healthy hair again and minimize loss.
Finasteride typically comes in the form of a daily pill. However, there are also topical solutions. Some topicals have finasteride; others combine it with minoxidil, another FDA-approved hair loss medication. Most men who take finasteride can see improvements between 4-6 months.
Care For Your Scalp
Another way you can reduce your hair loss is through your scalp care routine. A healthy scalp creates a foundation for healthy hair. A good scalp care routine can improve dandruff and other skin conditions, but it also can promote hair growth and reduce thinning.
Your scalp care doesn’t’ have to be extensive. Start by regularly washing your hair with a gentle shampoo, and follow up with a conditioner to soften your hair. Focus more on the ends of your hair rather than the scalp. Rubbing conditioner into your scalp can cause oil build-up, making your hair more brittle.
While lathering and rinsing, give your scalp a good massage. When you massage the scalp, you stimulate blood flow to the area, which means more nutrients and oxygen are delivered to the hair follicles. This can provide the necessary building blocks for hair growth and health.
Change Your Diet
Your diet and your nutritional intake significantly influence your hair’s health. A diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins plays a pivotal role in promoting robust hair growth and overall well-being. As you strategize your upcoming meals, incorporate various foods to ensure your hair receives the essential nutrients.
Even uncomplicated meals like grilled chicken, broccoli, and brown rice offer noteworthy benefits. Grilled chicken is an excellent protein source, vital for producing keratin, the main component of hair. Complementing this with broccoli introduces vitamin C, a potent antioxidant that aids in collagen production, a crucial element for maintaining the structure and health of your hair. A side of brown rice provides complex carbohydrates and B vitamins, like biotin, which is renowned for fostering hair strength.
It’s’ also important that you drink enough water. Keeping hydrated and consuming at least eight glasses of water daily can keep your scalp healthy and your hair growing. Not only does it help with hair growth, but it also boosts energy levels, brain function, skin health, and overall well-being. While it may seem easy, drinking the right amount of water can be challenging. One tip to ensure you drink enough water is to get a 64-ounce water bottle.
Find New Hairstyles
As hair naturally thins and changes with age, adjusting your go-to hairstyles can help you handle these developments gracefully. Thanks to social media, inspiration for new hairstyles is right at your fingertips. Short haircuts and styles that require less maintenance can give the illusion of fuller hair.
Experiment with styles that suit your hair type and your facial features. This can draw attention away from areas of concern and emphasize your best features. Finding the right kind to fit your new hair can be lengthy, but it can make a difference in how you view yourself. Feeling good about your hair can have a positive impact on your self-esteem.
Don’t be afraid to consult a professional stylist, either. Professionals who have experience working with thinning hair may be able to offer you hands-on guidance catered to your needs. You might even consider talking to a professional about having a wig installed.
Manage Your Stress
Stress can majorly impact your hair, from its texture and thickness to color. When you’re constantly overwhelmed, your body produces hormones, like cortisol, that can affect hair follicles and contribute to thinning. Chronic stress can alter the appearance of your hair — often leaving it looking dull in color and brittle.
Hair loss brought on by stress is often temporary. When you manage your worries, you can reverse and reduce this thinning. You can implement several techniques in daily routines to put your mind at ease. Regular exercise, like a light jog, can release endorphins in your body, which are natural mood boosters and stress relievers.
Another easy way to relieve mental strain is to get adequate rest each night. Poor sleep can not only dampen your mood but can bring on more feelings of stress, too. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each day to start the day feeling refreshed from head to toe.
Join A Support Group
If you’re experiencing hair thinning or baldness, know you’re not alone. Hair loss is common among men, especially as they get older. Consider joining a support group or an online community where you can connect with others experiencing similar hair loss challenges.
These groups can be a great tool to share styling tips or advice on how to combat thinning. It can also allow you to share your experience and feel empowered by this stage.
Many men will experience hair loss at some point in their life. It’s’ just a natural part of aging. As you’re dealing with this loss, remember to be patient and realistic. What works for one head of hair may not always work for another. Take it one step at a time, and don’t forget to prioritize yourself and your health.
