There are many, many myths and rumours surrounding the causes of and treatments for hair loss, but most of these aren’t to be believed. If you want information about hair loss or thinning hair, the best option is to talk to your doctor or hair loss treatment specialist instead.
The following are a few of the most prevalent (and ridiculous) myths about hair loss, and the real truths behind them.
Causes of hair loss
• Myth: Washing, brushing or using too many hair products causes hair loss
• Truth: None of these things will cause permanent hair loss, although extremes like bleach or peroxide may damage your hair to the extent that it falls out. However, it will grow back.
• Myth: Hats cause hair loss
• Truth: You could wear a hat all day, every day and it would make no difference to your hair, unless the hat is so incredibly tight that it cuts off the circulation to your head.
Cures for hair loss
• Myth: Washing in cold water cures hair loss
• Truth: Cold water boosts blood circulation, as does standing on your head (another hair myth). Unfortunately, increased blood circulation won’t make lost hair grow back.
• Myth: Hair loss comes from your mother’s genes
• Truth: Hair loss is often hereditary, but you can get the gene from either parent.