Hair loss is a common issue that not everyone is comfortable talking about, so let’s take this moment to have some real talk on the subject — the truth is normal hair loss can affect anyone. Much of the mystery surrounding this topic is that women are often left out of the conversation. Even more so, women are left to feel like there’s little to be done as it can sometimes relate to the natural aging process.

If you’re concerned your hair is shedding, looks thinner, or you have a wider-looking part, then it’s time we shed some light on common causes of these issues and how to get a head start on a few simple steps that can help your hair appear fuller and healthy.

Stress

This sneaky culprit is often at the heart of many health concerns. Everyday stress can trigger some hair shedding. Basically, when the body is stressed, it produces the hormone cortisol, which can shrink the hair follicle and — resulting in some shedding.

The good news is that stress-related hair loss is usually only temporary — once you’ve found a way to manage your everyday stress, you’ll start to see the difference in your hair. Sometimes it’s just a matter of getting your heart rate up with some cardio exercise once a week or getting an extra hour of sleep a day. 

Nutritional deficiencies

Okay, we get it. Perhaps because of additional pressures, you’ve either been skipping meals altogether or stress eating your weight in marshmallows. Either way, it could add to the potential for hair loss. Creating and maintaining healthy hair relies on consuming whole-body nutrition. Iron deficiency, for example, has been linked to various types of hair shedding and is one of the most common deficiencies, affecting more than 25% of people. Shockingly 30% of menstruating women might be deficient as well, thanks to a monthly loss of blood. Women who follow a vegan or vegetarian diet may also need to monitor their iron levels too.

Weight loss

Your body can register some weight loss as physical stress, even if the weight loss is a healthy lifestyle improvement. But sudden weight loss can shock the system, and you could have a few months of hair loss before it corrects itself. It’s better to lose weight gradually with moderate exercise while reducing calories.

Vigorous styling

Tight hairstyles like your snatched high ponytail can tug at the root and cause some thinning around your hairline over time. Other things like chemical straighteners, perms, hot-oil treatments, or any kind of high heat blowout can affect the hair root and cause damage when done repeatedly.

Recognize the issue

Now that you’re aware of what may be triggering normal hair loss don't stress! If you notice your hair is thinner, here are some easy ways to address the root of the problem (Pun intended).

Keep it loose

For daily downtime and a casual do’? Stay free as a bird! When putting your hair up, choose styles that don’t put too much tension on your scalp. Try using claw clips to keep hair out of your face instead of tight rubber bands. Gently style your hair and avoid prolonged heat if possible or save for the hot tools for special occasions.

Take a supplement

It’s likely you already eat healthy-ish, but our hair and scalp’s nutritional needs are unique. Vitamins can be vital in supporting specific nutrients and minerals available to your follicles. We love the Hair La Vie Clinical Hair Vitamins for just that! They step in where your daily nutrition falls short and have been specially formulated with active hair-healthy, naturally-derived ingredients like Saw Palmetto and Bamboo extract. 

Rather drink up and rejuvenate instead? Try the Hair La Vie Foundation Collagen Elixir beverage mix. Sip this potent, beauty elixir packed with superfoods like ginger, collagen, keratin, and blue spirulina for vibrant hair and skin! The glow up is real.

Head massage

Scalp massage will accomplish two goals in one — it’s an easy way to de-stress, and it's great for promoting hair growth as it increases circulation to your follicles. Ta-da! Increased blood circulation delivers oxygen and nutrients to your roots, which is good for anyone who struggles with common hair concerns. It strengthens hair follicles and cultivates healthy hair growth. Traditional Chinese medicine has been using scalp massage for hair issues and anti-aging for centuries! 

For a self-care trifecta, you can do a scalp massage before a shower and then mist the Renewing Growth Treatment onto freshly clean hair. It promotes visible hair density with plant-based ingredients.

Final thoughts

Dealing with normal hair loss can leave you feeling distraught; however, it's important to keep in mind how common hair loss is — and that if you’re experiencing it, it’s okay to talk about it.

To recap — you’ll want to consider your overall health, happiness, diet, as well as improve the condition of your scalp. Above all, be patient and don’t panic! Many of the causes can be prevented or resolved by simply changing your lifestyle. It takes at least 60 days to see results, so take a breath, take it one day at a time, and remember there are options for you!