Hair Loss or Hair Breakage? The Causes, Tips & Tricks

Okay, so your hair's been acting kinda weird lately. Is it thinning out? Or is it just snapping off like a twig? You might think it's all just hair loss, but there’s actually a big difference between losing your hair and your hair breaking off.

 

And guess what? You gotta treat 'em totally different.

 

Let's dive in and figure out what's going on with your hair. We'll break down the science-y stuff in a way that won't put you to sleep, I promise. And don't worry, I've got some awesome product recommendations to help you rescue your locks. Let's get started!

 

Hair Loss: What's Up With It?

Hair loss, or alopecia as the fancy folks call it, is basically when your hair starts thinning out. This happens because something's messing with your hair's growth cycle. It's like your hair is hitting the snooze button way too often!

 

Hair loss can look different for men and women, often because of hormones and genetics. Normally, your hair goes through this cool cycle of growing, resting, and falling out.

 

But when things get out of whack – maybe you're not eating right, super stressed, pregnant, going through menopause or something else is going on – your hair starts to lose the battle. In bad cases, your hair follicles can even die off, leading to permanent bald spots.

Hair Breakage: It's a Pain in the Mane

So, hair breakage is basically when your hair snaps off instead of falling out. It's like your hair is getting brittle and breaking apart. This happens when all the tiny proteins inside your hair strand start to weaken. Think of it like a frayed rope – not good!

Brushing too hard, using those tight hair ties, and even wet hair can put a ton of stress on your hair and cause it to break. And those annoying split ends? Yep, that's breakage too. It's like your hair is falling apart at the seams.

Hair Loss or Hair Breakage: Which is It?

Okay, so you're noticing something's off with your hair. Is it thinning out, or is it snapping like dry twigs? Let's figure it out.

If your hair is getting sparser, especially around your hairline, that's more likely hair loss. But if you're seeing lots of broken bits and split ends, it's probably breakage. Your hair should look like a lush forest, not a war zone!

Saving Your Hair: Let's Talk Treatments

Scientists have been obsessing over hair loss for ages, and we've come a long way! Here's the lowdown on how to help your hair:

• Pamper Your Scalp: Treat it like the VIP it is! Keep it clean, give it a little massage, and exfoliate to get rid of dead skin.
  
  
• Oil It Up: Natural oils like argan, jojoba, and marula can be your hair's new BFFs. They help your scalp stay healthy and might even give your hair a boost.
  
  
• Medications: There are some products out there that can help regrow hair. Minoxidil is a popular one, but you'll usually need a prescription.

Important Note on Shampoos / Conditioners Promising Hair Growth

Ask any professional hairdresser worth their salt and they will tell you: Unless it has medicinal qualities (which effectively requires TGA/FDA approval), there is no such thing as a shampoo or conditioner that can stimulate or guarantee hair growth.

 

Most wash products in market that promote these claims offer solutions that only thicken the hair shaft to make it look fuller in appearance. If you are genuinely experiencing hair loss, talk to a medical professional who can offer the best solution for your needs.

Stop the Breakage: Your Hair's New Best Friend

So, you've got the lowdown on hair breakage, and now you're ready to fight back! The key is to be kind to your hair and give it the TLC it deserves.

Let's talk hair care: Keep it clean, moisturised, and happy. Think of it like a houseplant – you wouldn't forget to water it, right?

Be gentle, people: When you're combing or styling, go easy on your hair. It's delicate, okay? And try to lay off the heat tools at high settings as much as possible – they're like kryptonite for your hair.

Loose is the new tight: Forget about apply those super tight hairstyles for long periods of time. Your hair needs to breathe, and pulling on it all day is putting on unneeded strain

Oil it up: Oils can be your hair's secret weapon. They help keep things smooth and shiny, and they can even help protect your hair from damage.

Find your hair's happy place: Everyone's hair is different, so figure out what works best for you. A good hair care routine is like a personalized workout – it's all about finding the right balance.

Your Hair's New Best Friend: A Daily Routine

Okay, so you want to give your hair some serious love? Let's talk routine! Consistency is key here, my friends.

Wash day: Aim for about two washes a week with a shampoo that won't strip your hair of its natural oils. Follow up with a conditioner to lock in moisture.

Deep condition: Think of this as a spa day for your hair. Once every couple of weeks, give it a deep conditioning mask to really hydrate and repair those strands.

Daily dose of hydration: You need to keep that moisture locked in! A curl cream and Sea Salt Spray is your hair's new BFF. Use it every day to protect your hair from the world.

Remember, this is just a starting point. Your hair is unique, so feel free to mix things up and find what works best for you.

Wrapping it Up

Knowing the difference between hair loss and breakage is like having a superpower for your hair. With the right care and products, you can have hair that's not just healthy, but seriously amazing. Let's give your hair the love it deserves!

References:

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3. Bryant, H.; Porter, C.; Yang, G., Curly hair: measured differences and contributions to breakage. International Journal of Dermatology 2012, 51, 8-11.
4. Ghanaat, M., Types of hair loss and treatment options, including the novel low-level light therapy and its proposed mechanism. South Med J 2010, 103 (9), 917-921.
5. Mirmirani, P., Hormonal changes in menopause: do they contribute to a ‘midlife hair crisis’ in women? British Journal of Dermatology 2011, 165 (s3), 7-11.
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