Hair loss is a common concern among men and women alike. The International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery reports roughly 35 million men and 21 million women in the United States suffer from hair loss. It can be caused by everything from genetics and medications to hormones and medical conditions.

Despite the prevalence of hair loss, many options are available for those who wish to address it. This article will walk you through five tips on what to do about hair loss:

1. Maintain a healthy diet

A healthy diet plays a vital role in preventing hair loss and stimulating hair follicle growth. Maintaining a diet rich in essential vitamins and minerals can keep your hair strands healthy and strong while preventing further damaging your roots. Hair is made up of a protein called keratin, so consuming enough protein in your diet is crucial to support hair growth. Excellent sources of protein include lean meats, fish, eggs, and lentils. Zinc is another nutrient that plays a role in cell growth and repair. Zinc deficiencies can lead to hair loss, so adding zinc-rich foods to your diet, such as oysters and fortified cereals, is critical. Ensuring your nutritional needs are met is one way to address hair loss.

2. See a hairstylist

Seeing a hairstylist can be beneficial in dealing with hair loss, especially in large states where many experienced professionals are available. For example, hair salon stylists in California or Florida can recommend beach-appropriate hairstyles that can camouflage hair loss. They can also suggest shorter hairstyles that add volume to the hair through layers and curls. Hairstylists can even recommend products specifically formulated for people dealing with hair loss, like specially-formulated shampoos containing biotin and minoxidil to promote hair growth. Finally, they can provide tips on styling your hair at home without causing further damage to your roots and strands.

3. See a hair loss professional

If your hair loss is more persistent, it may be time to see a hair loss specialist. Trichologists are specialists in scalp health and are versed in treating hair conditions. However, finding one can be challenging, especially in small towns. If so, you can use telehealth and remotely consult a medical specialist with the expertise needed to deal with hair loss. Fortunately, many healthcare providers are trained to address hair loss from anywhere in the state. For instance, remote nurse practitioners working in Minnesota can assess hair loss and make recommendations. They can even monitor the progress of your treatment and provide ongoing support. This way, you can access specialized hair loss expertise without travelling to large cities or other states.

4. Use gentle hair shampoo

To prevent hair loss and protect existing hair, you need to use gentle and nourishing hair shampoos that do not contain sulfates. Sulfates, chemicals commonly found in many shampoos, can strip the hair of its natural oils and lead to brittleness, breakage, and hair loss. You can replace your hair cleansers with sulfate-free products specifically formulated for people experiencing hair loss or sensitive scalps. Our post “Can I Wash My Hair Every Day?” provides a comprehensive guide on choosing the right shampoo, including the properties you should look for depending on your hair and scalp condition. Some products on the market even contain natural oils such as coconut, argan, or jojoba oils—all of which can moisturize the hair and scalp and promote growth for all hair types.

While there is no one-size-fits-all solution for hair loss, you can take various steps to prevent or reduce hair loss. With the proper treatment and care, it’s possible to improve the health of your hair and address this condition.