Effects of hair washing in cases of hair loss

The fact that frequent washing causes hair loss is one of the most persistent myths surrounding this issue. In reality, the hairs, which are “lost” while shampooing are just those that have already fallen. The truth is that any hair, once grown, is meant to reach the stage of shedding. The three phases of the “hair cycle” are as follows: growing (anagen), resting (telogen), and shedding. The biological reason for the latter is the cessation of the channels that nurture the hair, once it has been separated from the hold of the follicles.

Therefore, even if you do not wash away those hairs at the end of their resting stage, they are still bound to fall the next time when you take a shower. Hair loss, also known as androgenic alopecia, is a condition, which causes the cycle, described above, to shorten. The overall shortening actually means a longer resting period and a shorter growing phase. There are many complex reasons for this condition, which involve one’s lifestyle, diet, and genetic composition.


However, washing may have its impact, as to the products used for hair treatment. A lot of the cheap brands, which claim to be natural, are in fact full of damaging chemicals, such as sodium sulfate and ammonium lauryl sulfate. Such ingredients act to dry out the scalp and inhibit the proper nutrition of the hair.  Thus, the fight against hair loss commences with the selection of the right product. Natural elements are essential to healthy hair growth. These include oils, herbs, minerals, and vitamins. The most popular panaceas in natural hair products are Aloe Vera, rosemary, sage, and eggs. Washing, in itself, is very beneficial to the scalp, since it helps the blood circulation and clears away the excessive sebum. If the scalp produces more sebum, at a faster rate, than it takes for the hair to grow, the follicle gets filled with oils which eventually harden and hinder the growth of the hair. Moreover, the lack of hygiene creates conditions that are ripe for bacterial infection. That might directly attack the follicles and lead to premature shedding of hair.

Individuals who suffer from excessive hair loss should consult with specialists such as dermatologists and endocrinologists. They might give the best advice on the intensiveness of washing and the appropriate products for the particular person and condition.