Hair loss is a common concern for many, with the average person shedding about 50 to 100 hairs per day. However, during the monsoon season in India, this number can dramatically increase, sometimes reaching up to 250 hairs or more per day. From June to September, the monsoon brings not only rain but also high humidity levels, often exceeding 70%. This combination of factors can wreak havoc on hair health, leading to increased hair fall and potential scalp issues.
So, in today’s blog, we’ll shed light on the causes of hair loss and how to stop hair fall during the monsoon season in India. We’ll also share home remedies to strengthen your hair and maintain a healthy scalp.
Why Does Hair Fall Increase in Monsoon?
During the monsoon season, the atmosphere in India becomes heavy with humidity and stickiness, creating a challenging environment for hair health. This increased moisture content in the air plays a significant role in the surge of hair fall experienced during this period.
Here’s the Science Behind It:
The humidity in the atmosphere causes hair to absorb hydrogen. While hair is naturally sensitive to airborne hydrogen, the excessive absorption during the monsoon season makes it brittle and fragile, leading to increased breakage. Moreover, the humid weather causes hair to swell, disrupting the smooth cuticle and making it more susceptible to damage.
Effects of Humidity on the Scalp and Hair Roots
The high humidity levels can strip the scalp of its natural oils and nutrients, resulting in dryness and weakened roots. When hair comes into contact with rainwater, the additional moisture further weakens the hair follicles, causing them to tangle and break more easily.
Risk of Infections and Other Scalp Issues
The acidity of rainwater can create a favorable environment for scalp infections, bacteria, and fungus, all of which can contribute to itching and hair fall. The monsoon season also brings an increase in dandruff and lice, which can exacerbate hair fall problems.
Tips to Prevent Hair Loss During Monsoon in India:
Here are a few tips to stop hair loss during the monsoon season, which will help reduce the impact of humidity and seasonal infections.
Proper Hair Care Routine:
A proper hair care routine involves several key steps. Firstly, gentle cleansing with a mild shampoo is important to remove dirt and excess oil. However, harsh shampoos can strip the scalp of its natural oils, leading to dryness and potential hair damage. Conditioning is also crucial to keep hair hydrated, making it soft, smooth, and less prone to breakage. Additionally, regular oiling to nourish the scalp is beneficial, as massaging the scalp with oil can improve blood circulation, strengthen the roots, and reduce hair fall. Incorporating these steps into your routine can help maintain healthy, strong hair.
Diet and Nutrition:
Proper diet and nutrition play a crucial role in maintaining healthy hair, especially during the monsoon season. A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin E, vitamin C, and iron, can promote healthy hair growth and reduce hair fall. Including foods like spinach, nuts, eggs, and fish in your diet can provide these essential nutrients, helping to keep your hair strong and vibrant even in the challenging monsoon weather.
Protection from Humidity and Rain:
To protect your hair from the challenges of high humidity and rain during the monsoon season, it’s important to take some precautions. Using an umbrella or a hat can shield your hair from rainwater, preventing it from becoming weak and prone to breakage. Additionally, avoiding prolonged exposure to dampness is essential, as damp hair is more fragile and prone to breakage. Keeping your hair dry as much as possible during the monsoon season can help maintain its strength and health.
Avoiding Heat Styling and Chemical Treatments:
To maintain healthy hair during the monsoon, it’s essential to avoid heat styling tools and chemical treatments. Heat and chemicals can damage the hair cuticle, leading to breakage and hair fall. Instead, consider using heat-free styling methods like air drying or braiding. Natural hair care products can also help protect your hair from damage. Look for products with ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, or shea butter, which can nourish and strengthen your hair. By making these simple changes to your hair care routine, you can help maintain your hairstyle while keeping your hair healthy and strong during the monsoon season.
Home Remedies You Can Try to Stop Hair Loss:
Here are some effective home remedies to combat hair loss during the monsoon:
- Aloe Vera Gel: Aloe vera is known for its soothing and moisturizing properties. Applying aloe vera gel to your scalp can help improve scalp health and reduce hair fall.
- Fenugreek Seeds Paste: Fenugreek seeds are rich in proteins and nicotinic acid, which are known to strengthen hair and promote hair growth. Making a paste of fenugreek seeds and applying it to your hair can help prevent hair loss.
- Coconut Oil and Curry Leaves: Coconut oil is a natural conditioner that helps nourish the hair and scalp. Curry leaves are rich in antioxidants and amino acids, which can help strengthen hair follicles. Boil curry leaves in coconut oil and apply this mixture to your hair for nourishment.
- Other Natural Remedies: Other natural remedies such as onion juice, amla (Indian gooseberry) oil, and hibiscus flower paste are also known to reduce hair fall and promote hair growth.
Professional Treatments for Hair Loss
When home remedies aren’t providing the desired results, professional treatments may be necessary to combat severe hair loss. Here are some options to consider:
Mesotherapy: Mesotherapy involves injecting a mixture of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients into the scalp to promote hair growth and improve hair health.
PRP Therapy (Platelet-Rich Plasma): PRP therapy involves extracting a small amount of blood from the patient, processing it to concentrate the platelets, and then injecting the platelet-rich plasma into the scalp to stimulate hair growth.
Hair Transplants: Hair transplant surgery involves removing hair follicles from one part of the scalp (or body) and transplanting them into balding or thinning areas. This procedure is typically reserved for severe cases of hair loss.
It’s important to consult with an experienced dermatologist or hair specialist to determine the most suitable treatment for your specific condition. Severe hair loss may be indicative of underlying health issues, so seeking professional help early can be beneficial.
Precautions and Additional Tips:
During the monsoon season, it’s essential to take extra precautions to maintain healthy hair. Here are some tips to help you protect your hair during this time:
Avoid Tight Hairstyles: Tight hairstyles can pull on the roots of your hair, leading to breakage and hair loss. Opt for looser styles to prevent damage.
Keep the Scalp Dry and Clean: The high humidity during the monsoon can create an ideal environment for fungal infections. Keep your scalp dry and clean to prevent these infections.
Regular Trimming: Regular trimming helps prevent split ends and breakage, keeping your hair looking healthy and strong. Trim your hair every 6–8 weeks to maintain its health.
Conclusion
Tackling hair loss during the monsoon in India requires a proactive approach. By following a proper hair care routine, maintaining a balanced diet, and protecting your hair from the effects of humidity and rain, you can minimize hair fall and keep your hair healthy and strong. However, if you find that your hair loss persists despite these efforts, it may be time to seek professional help. SkinQure offers a range of treatments tailored to address various causes of hair loss. Don’t let hair fall dampen your spirits this monsoon season—visit our clinic and take the first step towards healthier, happier hair. Schedule an appointment today.