Hair loss comes with plenty of advice. Unfortunately, not all of it is good advice. So here are 10 common hair loss myths that deserve a closer look.
Myth #1: Washing your hair too often causes hair loss
Seeing hair in the shower can make shampooing seem like the problem. Usually, the hairs you see were already at the shedding stage of their natural growth cycle. Washing simply helps release them.
How often you should wash your hair depends on your hair type, scalp, and styling habits. Avoiding shampoo because you’re afraid of losing hair isn’t necessarily the answer.
Myth #2: Wearing hats makes you go bald
Your favorite baseball cap probably isn’t responsible for your thinning hair.
Normal hat use doesn’t cause common forms of hair loss. Problems are more likely when something repeatedly pulls, rubs, or places excessive tension on the hair. A comfortable, properly fitting hat is a different story.
Myth #3: Hair loss only happens to men
Men aren’t the only ones who experience hair loss. Women can experience thinning and hair loss at many stages of life. For both women and men, the changes can have a major effect on confidence.
Myth #4: Hair loss always comes from your mother’s side
You’ve probably heard some version of this one: just look at your mother’s father to find out whether you’ll lose your hair.
Genetics aren’t quite that simple. Hereditary hair loss can be influenced by genes from both sides of the family. Looking at one relative doesn’t give you a guaranteed preview of what will happen to your hair.
Myth #5: Cutting your hair makes it grow back thicker
A fresh haircut can certainly make hair look healthier and fuller. It doesn’t change what’s happening at the follicle.
Your hair may appear thicker after a haircut because damaged or thin ends have been removed, but the haircut itself hasn’t changed the number of hairs growing from your scalp.
Myth #6: Every hair loss product works if you use it long enough
People worried about their hair can easily end up with a bathroom cabinet full of shampoos, oils, vitamins, serums, and other products promising thicker hair.
Hair loss has different causes, so one product isn’t going to be the answer for everyone. Before spending months trying one product after another, it helps to better understand what is happening with your own hair and scalp.
Myth #7: Seeing hair in your brush means you’re going bald
Some shedding is normal. Most people shed approximately 50 to 100 hairs each day as part of the natural hair growth cycle. You may notice those hairs in your brush, shower, sink, or on your clothing.
Changes are more concerning when you begin shedding considerably more than usual.
Myth #8: Hair loss is always permanent
Not every person who experiences hair loss will continue losing hair indefinitely.
Hair shedding and thinning can happen for different reasons, and some situations may be temporary. Other forms of hair loss can be progressive or permanent.
That’s one reason it’s helpful to have your hair and scalp evaluated rather than assuming the worst based on what you see in the mirror.
Myth #9: A wig will always look like a wig
This myth often comes from memories of wigs from years ago.
Today’s options can be remarkably natural in appearance. Improvements in cap construction, hairlines, materials, colors, and customization allow a wig to be selected and styled around the person wearing it.
At Allusions, clients can explore men and women options! A wig can also be customized for your preferred cut, color, and style.
The goal isn’t to look like you’re wearing someone else’s hair. It’s to find hair that looks and feels right on you!
Myth #10: There’s nothing you can do about hair loss
Ignoring hair loss because you assume nothing can be done may keep you from learning about options that could help.
The right solution depends on the person and the type of hair loss they’re experiencing. Some people may be candidates for solutions designed to support fuller, denser hair. Others may prefer a topper, wig, or customized hair replacement system.
And sometimes the first step is simply getting more information.
Get Answers About Your Hair
If you’ve noticed more shedding than usual, a widening part, thinning areas, or another change in your hair, you don’t have to rely on myths and internet advice to decide what to do.
Allusions has helped women and men experiencing hair loss in Cincinnati for nearly 30 years. During a cosmetic consultation, a hair loss specialist reviews your hair loss history and performs a scalp analysis. If Allusions can help, you’ll learn about the solutions that may be suitable for your particular situation.
Hair loss is personal. Your solution should be personal, too. Contact Allusions to schedule a consultation and get a better understanding of your options!
