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For many women, hair reflects who we are. As we age, experience different life events and our personalities evolve, we often change our hair to match our lifestyle as well as mood. But how much is this affecting our hair health and could natural hair care help restore the luscious locks we once had?
Changing styles, colour and the length of our hair are all fun ways to express ourselves and define the way we feel. But there are various factors and circumstances that negatively impact our hair. These can lead to issues such as hair loss, weak strands and trouble with growth. In turn, this can really impact our confidence and cause extra stress when it comes to maintaining the style we desire. Therefore, understanding how to look after your hair health throughout life is important.
Common hair problems in women
If you’re struggling with hair problems such as hair loss and damage, then you’re certainly not alone. Here, the experts at Hair Divine share insights into their customer’s real-life experiences. So if you’re looking for natural hair care solutions to common problems, Hair Divine is here to help…The menopause and ageing process
Sian: “As I have got older, my hair growth has slowed down quite a bit, and the hair that grows is much finer in texture.”Annie: “I’m going through the menopause. My once thick and shiny hair has just disappeared, which left me feeling very down. I’d love to get my confidence back.”
The menopause can affect women in many ways. However, one common side effect that is often noticeable is changes in hair length, luxuriance and quality. This is a result of lowering oestrogen and progesterone hormone levels during this period. Thinning hair and loss of lustre is an obvious sign for many women, and can be difficult to deal with alongside other symptoms of the menopause.
Stress hair loss
Jill: “I have had a very stressful year, which had a negative effect on my hair.”Our hair often outwardly shows the internal effects of stress on our body. The Covid-19 pandemic, in particular, has manifested in huge amounts of continued stress for many people. For some, this stress can cause the condition Telogen Effluvium, which is a form of temporary hair loss.
In a healthy person’s scalp, approximately 85 percent of the hair follicles are actively growing hairs (anagen hair), while around 15 percent are resting hairs (telogen hair), which will shed. But stress can be a trigger for this condition. It may mean that as many as 70 percent of the active hairs become resting, in turn leading to more shedding of hair.
Postpartum hair loss
Lorna: “Having three children has really taken its toll on my hair. It was always great during pregnancy, but then became dry and brittle.”During pregnancy, your hormones can cause faster hair growth, creating luscious locks. But it’s common for postnatal women to notice hair shedding suddenly in the six months after birth. This can even happen in clumps and can be quite a shock if you’re not prepared for it. This is because your hormones are returning to normal levels following birth, causing extra hairs to fall out, as well as other changes in our hair.
Impact of diet on hair health
Claire: “My hair is weak and dull. I don’t think it is getting the nutrients it needs due to my poor diet.”We often forget the impact of a poor diet on our hair, until thinning and poor quality strands appear. What’s more, undereating is often overlooked as a trigger for hair issues. Not consuming a good balance of healthy fats, protein, carbs and vitamins could also have an impact.
Over-styling and neglect
Lindsey: “My hair is in very bad condition. I am so keen to steer away from artificial products and to use a natural one if possible.”Heat treatments such as hair straighteners, excessive use of chemical products and the use of hair dye can all have a negative impact on hair health. What’s more, after years of neglect or over-styling, our hair can struggle to recover. Giving your hair a rest and time to recover can be really beneficial.
Building a healthy hair care routine
There are many circumstances that can impact our hair health. But the good news is that there are also various ways you can improve it! Developing a healthy hair care routine helps to counter the effects of our hectic lifestyle and other external factors. Here are some top natural hair care tips…Eat a balanced diet
It’s important to consume a well-balanced diet for healthy hair to ensure you’re obtaining the right vitamins. You can enjoy your favourite foods, but consume treats in moderation. Ensure you eat a balance of healthy fats, proteins, carbs and plenty of fruit and vegetables. Remember to stay hydrated, too.Manage stress factors
Daily life, unexpected events and environmental pollutants can all stress our hair and body. Reduce stressors where you can, and incorporate meditation, self-care and exercise into your lifestyle where possible.Prepare for life events
Keep in mind the effects that the menopause, childbirth and other big life events can have on your hair health. Be ready to accept these changes, whilst including the right nutrients and routine to protect your hair as much as you can.Adopt a natural hair care routine
Taking a natural, nutritional hair supplement every day can be an easy way to keep your locks healthy, flowing and shiny.See more at Natural Health
