What are the Best Natural Remedies for Reducing Hair Fall?
Hair fall starts small. A few strands on your pillow or hairband may not seem like a big deal and go unnoticed. But over time, your ponytail starts to feel thinner, and every time you run your fingers through your hair, more strands come loose. That is when the worry sets in.
While medical conditions can contribute to hair fall, one of the biggest reasons it worsens is negligence. Many ignore the early signs and only act when the problem becomes severe. And after the waiting period, they immediately jump to medications and extreme treatments that might not give the expected results. But the good news is that you do not need harsh treatments to fix it. Simple and natural hair fall remedies can strengthen and nourish your hair, helping you regain health before it is too late.
What Causes Hair Fall?
Hair fall does not happen overnight. It results from multiple factors that gradually weaken the hair from the root. Understanding the cause is the first step towards finding the right natural solutions. Here are some common reasons behind excessive hair fall:
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Nutritional Deficiencies:
Your hair needs proper nourishment, just like the rest of your body. A lack of essential nutrients like iron, biotin, zinc, and protein can lead to weak, brittle hair that sheds more than usual. Low iron levels can particularly slow hair growth and cause noticeable thinning.
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Hormonal Imbalances:
Hormones play a major role in hair health. Conditions like PCOS, thyroid disorders, and post-pregnancy hormonal shifts can trigger hair loss. An excess of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone linked to hair thinning, can also cause male pattern baldness.
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Stress and Lifestyle:
High-stress levels can push hair follicles into a resting phase. This leads to increased shedding, a condition known as telogen effluvium. Poor sleep, an unhealthy diet, and lack of exercise further contribute to hair fall.
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Harsh Hair Treatments:
Frequent heat styling, chemical treatments, and excessive hair colouring can damage the hair shaft and weaken roots. Tight hairstyles like high ponytails and braids also strain the hair, leading to breakage and hair loss. -
Scalp Conditions:
A dry, flaky, or inflamed scalp can hinder hair growth. Dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and fungal infections can block hair follicles, causing increased shedding.
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Genetics and Ageing:
Sometimes, hair loss runs in the family. Genetic hair fall, also known as androgenetic alopecia, can start as early as the 20s or 30s and worsen with age. As we age, hair growth naturally slows down, making hair thinner and more prone to shedding.
How to Stop Hairfall Naturally?
Before popping those pills, try the following DIY hair remedies at home:
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Switch to a Healthier Diet:
What you eat directly impacts your hair health. A nutrient-rich diet can reduce hair fall and improve hair strength. Here are some foods to include:
- Hair is made of keratin, which is a protein. Add eggs, lentils, paneer, tofu, and nuts to your diet.
- Low iron levels can cause hair thinning. Include spinach, beetroot, pumpkin seeds, and pomegranates.
- Eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Flaxseeds, walnuts, and chia seeds contain these acids, which help nourish hair follicles and prevent dryness.
- Citrus fruits, amla (Indian gooseberry), and bell peppers are rich in vitamin C, which helps with iron absorption and boosts collagen production.
- Sweet potatoes, bananas, and sunflower seeds are rich in biotin and zinc, which are excellent for hair strength and growth.
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Scalp Massage with Essential Oils:
Scalp massage, or champi, is an ancient Ayurveda technique that is wonderful for hair health. It improves blood circulation to the scalp and nourishes the roots. Instead of applying multiple essential oils, use Rooting For You hair oil. It is made with 10 natural ingredients, such as organic Rosemary essential oil, organic Pumpkin seed oil, organic Vitamin E oil, organic Brahmi, Jojoba, Coconut and more. It strengthens hair follicles, hydrates the scalp and prevents hair damage. You must massage your scalp at least twice weekly for 10-15 minutes before hair wash for effective results.
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Onion Juice for Hair Growth:
Onion juice is one of the most effective herbal treatments for hair loss. It is rich in sulphur, which strengthens hair follicles and improves blood circulation. Apply onion juice directly to the scalp and leave it for 30-45 minutes. Consistently follow this remedy twice a week for visible results. -
Fenugreek (Methi) Hair Mask:
Fenugreek seeds are packed with protein and nicotinic acid, which are essential for reducing hair fall and promoting growth. You can prepare the mask by soaking two tablespoons of fenugreek seeds overnight and grinding them into a paste. Apply the mask for 30 minutes before rinsing. Use once or twice a week for best results.
Pro Tips: What Else Can You Do?
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Get the Right Blood Tests:
Hair fall can be linked to deficiencies or hormonal imbalances. Check your iron, vitamin D, B12, thyroid, and hormone levels to rule out underlying issues.
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Avoid Frequent Hair Washing:
Washing too often strips natural oils, making hair dry and brittle. Stick to 2-3 washes a week and use lukewarm water to prevent moisture loss.
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Use a Derma Roller:
Microneedling with a titanium derma roller stimulates hair follicles and improves circulation, promoting regrowth. Use it once a week with a nourishing serum or oil.
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Exfoliate Your Scalp Weekly:
A buildup-free scalp encourages healthier hair growth. Use a scalp scrub or gentle exfoliator once a week to remove dead skin and excess oil.
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Switch to a Sulphate-Free Shampoo:
Sulphates strip hair of moisture and weaken strands. Opt for a mild, sulphate-free shampoo that is good for your scalp and reduces hair fall.
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Address PCOS:
Hair fall and PCOS/PCOD are closely linked. If your hair falls due to hormonal imbalance, start with natural remedies like hormone balancing brews to help manage and control it.