Does Shampoo Cause Hair Fall?
August 30, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Shampoo itself does not directly cause hair fall. In fact, using shampoo is a necessary part of maintaining scalp and hair health by removing dirt, oil, and product buildup. However, there are a few factors to consider:
- Hair Shedding vs. Hair Loss: It’s important to distinguish between normal hair shedding and actual hair loss. Hair shedding is a natural process where old hairs fall out to make room for new ones. On average, people shed about 50 to 100 hairs per day. This shedding can sometimes be more noticeable when you wash your hair, but it doesn’t necessarily indicate a problem.
- Hair Care Products: Some shampoos, especially those with harsh chemicals or strong detergents, can potentially strip the hair of its natural oils and lead to dryness or brittleness. Over time, excessive use of such products could contribute to hair breakage, making it appear as if hair is falling out. Using a mild and gentle shampoo suitable for your hair type can help prevent this.
- Allergic Reactions: In rare cases, some people might be sensitive or allergic to certain ingredients in shampoos. An allergic reaction can cause scalp irritation, itching, and inflammation, which could potentially lead to hair loss if left untreated.
- Underlying Conditions: If you notice significant hair loss while shampooing or at any other time, it might be due to underlying factors such as genetics, hormonal changes, stress, nutritional deficiencies, medical conditions, or medications. In these cases, the shampoo itself is not the cause of the hair loss, but other factors are at play.
To minimize hair breakage and maintain healthy hair:
- Choose a shampoo that is appropriate for your hair type and concerns.
- Avoid excessive use of harsh shampoos and focus on gentle cleansing.
- Use conditioner after shampooing to help keep your hair moisturized.
- Be gentle when massaging and washing your hair to avoid unnecessary stress on the hair shafts.
- If you’re experiencing significant hair loss, consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate guidance and treatment.