Although heredity factors and poor nutrition can have a detrimental affect on the hair, it is possible to help reverse any damage with regular hair care.

My stylist, Joyce shared a surprising fact with me related to hair loss. She noted, on average we lose 50–100 strands of hair a day. Research has indicated that women generally experience some hair thinning as they age, but especially after menopause. Conversely, hormonal changes during pregnancy normally prevent hair loss, so some women complain about hair loss two to three months after giving birth.

Some heredity factors that contribute to hair loss include stress, poor diet, vitamin deficiencies, and poor circulation. Given these factors, how can we ensure the maintenance of healthy hair? On a personal note, I’m guilty of being too rough on my hair by often towel drying it. One of the best ways to keep hair healthy is by treating it gently, and allowing it to dry naturally when possible. Understandably, it is challenging to do away with the convenience of hair dryers altogether. As wet hair tends to break more easily when wet, don’t attempt to comb or brush your hair until dry. The Mason Pearson brush still remains the best choice on the market.

Because good nutrition plays such an important role in hair health, diets that do not include all of the food groups should be avoided. Deficiencies in nutrients can have deleterious effects on the hair.
If you own a slant board, lie down on it for 10–15 minutes a day to promote good circulation to the scalp. I assume a yogic head stand might achieve similar results, but be sure you are supervised by an experienced practitioner, if trying it for the first time.
Research has shown that Aloe Vera gel, vitamins C and E, and Jojoba oils are beneficial to the hair and scalp. Conditioning the hair with products that contain marigold, ginseng, chamomile and passionflower also promote healthy hair. Most health food stores carry such formulas.

A diet plentiful in fresh fruits and vegetables has known to slow down the process of hair loss dramatically. It’s important to avoid starch as well. Fruits and vegetables in particular are rich in flavanoids and considered to be anti-oxidants – which act as nurturing and protective agents for hair follicles to stimulate hair growth.

Jackie O‘Neal writes a weekly column In the Name of Beauty™