Hair loss is a condition in which your hair falls out, causing a temporary or permanent thinning in the particular area on the scalp. It can be a result of genetics, hormonal changes, age, stress, climate, harsh products, or heated styling tools. Although it can affect anyone, it can show up differently among men and women. Hereditary and age-related hair loss are the most common causes of baldness in men and a receding hairline in women. Most people just let their hair run its course, while others use extensions, scarves, hats, wigs, and transplants. You can consult your doctor for advice on the best treatment option for you.
Here are a few common options you can choose from if you’re wondering how to treat age-related hair loss:
- Reduce stress
Consistent high levels of stress hormones can accelerate hair loss. While age-related hair loss is natural, these hormones increase the rate of hair fall. You can reduce hair loss by lowering your stress levels. To achieve this, you can take up stress-busting activities like meditation, breathing exercises, yoga, and getting a good night’s sleep. Maintaining a healthy diet and making healthy lifestyle choices is also important to reduce stress. - Lower the usage of styling tools
Most styling tools like flat irons and curling irons require heat to operate, and direct application of heat can cause the fragile fibers of your hair to deteriorate and break. This can, in turn, cause excess hair loss in the long term, so try to avoid using these tools. If you do have to use them, use them sparingly and set the lowest heat possible.
Gray hair, more than other hair strands, can get damaged very easily and become wiry and coarse. If you’re wondering how to treat age-related hair loss, use heat protectants when you style your hair with heat, as it minimizes the damage and can protect hair from falling off. - Eat healthy
Follow a balanced diet to improve the health of your follicles and hair strands. Optimal hair health requires a lot of proteins, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B (all of them), vitamins A, C, D, and E, calcium, and iron, so include them in your diet to reduce hair fall.
If you maintain a consistently healthy diet, you may also notice improved hair growth. If your body isn’t able to absorb certain nutrients or if you’re unable to incorporate certain foods in your diet, you can consider taking supplements after consulting a doctor. - Take medications
Minoxidil is one of the most commonly used medications to treat hair loss. It shows results in about 2 months, and it is safe. That being said, it can lead to side effects like hypertrichosis and alcohol-related scalp irritation. - Opt for a hair transplant
When wondering how to treat age-related hair loss, hair transplants are a common solution. A transplant involves a procedure in which a bald patch is replaced by a strip of follicles removed from other parts of the scalp that have healthy hair growth, which is usually the back of the head.
A more advanced technique called follicular unit transplantation is used to provide a natural appearance.