Lo and behold, the reality of hair loss at any age is not one specific to men. Despite how we’ve been informed, 50% of women are genetically predisposed to hair loss, and you inherit this gene from your mother. We’ here to clarify that losing hair whether in swaths or chronically, is unfortunately very common. Environmental conditions are certainly to blame, gratuitous dieting, thyroid conditions, and childbirth too. While there are no absolute cures, here are some things you can do to create a healthy environment for your scalp. 

Get a shower filter

We go above and beyond to make sure our drinking water is purified and balanced. Your skin deserves the same consideration. The quality of water varies depending on your locale, but it is likely that you’ll find trace amounts of carcinogenic substances, heavy metals, chlorine, and other impurities from your shower tap. These contaminants can strip color treated hair, cause dandruff and dry skin, and make your thoughtfully purchased, probably expensive hair products useless.  

Understand the role your hormones play

Cortisol is the stress hormone, I’m sure you’re familiar with her! Your hair follicles are ultra sensitive to emotional and physical aggravations. While managing stress is difficult, it’s worth fighting for to avoid the domino effect of issues that come with excess cortisol(including hair loss).

DHT is a hormone that binds to your follicle receptors, and weakens them so that they resist growth. Taking pumpkin seed oil, saw palmetto, or rosemary oil are some natural ways to block DHT production. 

Use a scalp brush

If you love being introduced to new toys to spice up a boring routine, you’re in luck because this one’s for shampooing. Remember when we gave the low down on the importance of scalp exfoliation? We’re targeting buildup here as well. The overabundance of natural oil and product stand in the way of regular cell turnover that is responsible for growth. Massaging this all over the scalp with your chosen detoxing shampoo might call upon childhood memories of your mom brushing your hair, or replicate the joy that a thorough salon shampoo brings. 

Do a rice water rinse

If you’ve ever gazed longingly at another’s strong, shiny locks and wondered, how?! You may be surprised by the simplicity and bargain of this age-old technique that can help with hair loss. A 1 to 1 ratio of rice and water, a vigorous stir and strain, and viola: you have your rinse. The use of rice water can be traced back to 8th century Japan when the hairstyle called suberakashi (hair that reached the floor) was popular by ladies of the court. A carbohydrate in rice water called inositol penetrates damaged follicles to both repair and protect against future damage. Rinsing with rice water does not need to be in your daily routine, instead you should aim for 1-2 of these comforting, luxe baths per month. “