Understanding Hair Thinning: Causes and Solutions for Black Hair

August 2nd, 2024.

Understanding Hair Thinning: Causes and Solutions for Black Hair

Hair thinning is a common concern across all hair types. This blog post will explore its causes in Black hair and provide practical solutions, including professional treatments available at Tresses Lagos.

What is Hair Thinning?

It refers to a decrease in the density of hair, making it appear less full and voluminous. Unlike hair loss, which involves the complete falling out of hair, thinning means the hair shaft’s diameter reduces over time. It can be the onset of hair loss and, if left untreated, can lead to hair loss. Understanding the hair growth cycle is crucial. Hair grows in three phases: anagen (growth phase), catagen (transitional phase), and telogen (resting phase). Thinning occurs when the anagen phase shortens, causing hair to shed more quickly and grow back finer.

Thinning can appear as a general decrease in hair density (diffuse thinning) or be concentrated in specific areas, showing different patterns. Recognising these patterns is important for determining the appropriate treatment.

Common Causes of Thinning in Black Hair

Genetic Factors: Genetics play a significant role. If your family has a history of hair loss or thinning, you are more likely to experience it as well.
Hormonal Changes: Hormonal imbalances, particularly those involving estrogen and androgens, can impact hair growth. Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and menopause often lead to thinning hair.
Stress and Lifestyle Factors: High stress levels, poor diet, lack of sleep, and insufficient physical activity can contribute to the thinning of hair. Stress can push hair follicles into the telogen phase prematurely, causing shedding.
Hair Care Practices: Overprocessing with chemicals, heat styling, and tight hairstyles that pull on the hair can weaken the hair shaft and lead to breakage and thinning. Improper use of hair products, such as those containing harsh chemicals, can also damage the hair.
Scalp Conditions: Common scalp issues like dandruff, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis can affect hair health. These conditions often cause inflammation and itching, leading to thinning over time.
Health and Medication: Certain health conditions and medications can cause hair to thin. Conditions like thyroid disorders, anemia, and autoimmune diseases, as well as medications for blood pressure, depression, and chemotherapy, can impact hair health.

Solutions for Hair Thinning in Black Hair

Scalp Care: Maintaining a healthy scalp is essential. Regularly cleanse your scalp to remove buildup and use products that promote scalp health. Look for ingredients like tea tree oil and salicylic acid, which can help soothe and cleanse the scalp.
Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Adopting a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, staying hydrated, managing stress, and getting adequate sleep can significantly improve hair health. Supplements containing biotin, iron, and vitamin D can also be beneficial.
Proper Hair Care Practices: Be gentle with your hair. Avoid tight hairstyles, limit the use of heat styling tools, and minimize chemical treatments. Use moisturizing shampoos and conditioners that are free of harsh chemicals to keep your hair hydrated and healthy.
Consultation with a Professional: Thinning can present differently in various patterns and indications, so it’s essential to consult with a professional to decipher the root causes. This will ensure the appropriate treatment is administered.

Professional Hair Thinning Treatments at Tresses Lagos

Niacin Age Defying: This treatment helps improve blood circulation to the scalp, promoting hair growth and strengthening the hair shaft.
Laser Therapy: Low-level laser therapy stimulates hair follicles, encouraging hair growth and increasing hair density.
Scalp Scrub: A deep cleansing treatment that removes buildup from the scalp, promoting a healthier environment for hair growth.
Stem Cell Therapy: A minimally invasive procedure using wound healing technology where punctures are created on the scalp at a controlled depth allowing for collagen production and for easy and deeper entry of products into the follicles.
This treatment is recommended only after consultation with six month treatment plan.
Aftercare Growth Solutions: These are typically recommended after consultation and treatments with our technicians to ensure continued hair growth and maintenance.

Conclusion

Hair thinning can be distressing, but understanding its causes and using effective solutions can make a significant difference. By adopting healthy hair care practices and considering professional treatments like those offered at Tresses Lagos, you can combat the thinning of your hair and maintain beautiful, voluminous hair. Remember, taking care of your scalp and overall health is key to supporting hair growth and achieving the luscious hair you desire.

Get a wellness experience through holistic hair and scalp treatments.

August 2nd, 2024.