The connection between smoking and hair loss
Hair health is essential for everyone’s appearance and confidence. Research has shown a strong link between hair loss and smoking, revealing that those who smoke at least 10 times a day are most likely to have developed androgenetic alopecia (AGA) with hair thinning and baldness. Men and women both experience AGA and male or female baldness. Hair loss and alopecia are becoming very popular nowadays. Understanding the causes and determining the right hair care promotes stronger hair.
Role of smoking in hair health
Understanding the role of smoking and how it affects the whole scalp is helpful to recognise its impact and to take steps to quit right away.
Insufficient blood flow to hair follicles
Nicotine does not let the blood flow to the scalp and deprives hair follicles without giving nutrients and oxygen. When this disruption takes place, it weakens the hair, the growth of hair slows down and the risk of hair thinning or baldness increases. Over time, nicotine contributes to hair and an overall unhealthy scalp.
Disrupts hormonal balance
The toxins present in cigarettes disrupt hormonal balance, leading to an increased DHT level, which is a key factor in AGA. Additionally, consistent smoking reduces collagen production, which weakens the scalp structure and further gives rise to hair loss and alopecia.
Premature canities
Smoking not only causes hair loss but also accelerates premature graying by damaging melanocyte cells, that are hair growth responsibles. Studies have shown that smokers are more likely to develop such problems as compared to nonsmokers due to the buildup of toxins in the scalp, contributing to pigmentation.
Scalp infections
Frequent smoking weakens the immune system, which ends up making the scalp more vulnerable to fungal infections and other issues that give rise to complications related to hair. Scalp and fungal infections lead to redness, itching and dandruff. These issues get more difficult to treat because of the poor blood flow to the scalp, which ultimately slows down the hair growth process and takes time to recover.
Quitting smoking can help maintain hair health
It’s not the end; hair health can be improved by quitting smoking. Once the person has stopped smoking, it improves the blood circulation to the scalp that allows hair follicles to expect oxygen and nutrition throughout that gets blocked when smoking. Let’s review some of the factors that are a cure for falling hair.
Balanced diet
A healthy diet plays a vital role in maintaining strong hair and a beautiful scalp. Many nutrients such as protein, biotin, iron, vitamins A, C and D, and omega-3 fatty acids are highly beneficial for preventing dryness and hair thinning. Intake of plenty of water also matters by increasing the scalp circulation and reducing the risk of further complications such as alloplastic hair loss.
Gentle hair care
Proper hair care is also essential for maintaining healthy hair growth. Excessive use of hair styling tools such as straighteners and curling irons increases breakage. Limiting the use of such tools and chemicals strengthens hair follicles. Apart from this, daily scalp massaging has also proven to be the best factor that promotes hair growth.
Repair your hair with Dr VJ’s Clinic If you are noticing any symptoms like hair thinning, excessive shedding, or any other scalp issues, we offer the best treatments tailored to your needs. Our team of experts provide personal guidance on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, by starting with assessing the needs and evaluation of any underlying cause. Contact Dr VJ’s Clinic today for healthier and fuller hair scalp.
