Whether you’ve wrestled with thinning hair for years, or you’re just starting to notice your hair losing its thickness, hair loss is a frustrating experience that can affect our self-esteem. The good news is, there are natural remedies that can stimulate hair growth and help restore fullness and strength. You may even be able to slow, stop or reverse the thinning of your hair – naturally.
Causes of thinning hair
Because thinning hair tends to happen gradually, it can be difficult to pinpoint causes. Along with genetics and aging, there are a number of factors that can contribute to thinning hair. These include:
- Chronic stress
- Excess sun exposure
- Dietary deficiencies (especially protein and key minerals like iron and folic acid)
- Styling damage (heat from styling tools; compression from clips/bands; harsh products)
- Hormonal changes (such as during/after pregnancy or menopause)
- Medical conditions (such as thyroid problems)
- Medication side-effects (such as antidepressants or birth control pills)
Knowing the source of the problem is half the battle. So, if you’ve experienced any of the above circumstances, look to the corresponding remedies below to start your journey back to healthier hair!
Natural remedies for thinning hair
After investigating potential causes for your thinning hair and taking steps to correct anything within your control, consider incorporating some of the following remedies for strengthening hair and stimulating growth.
Massage your scalp
Not only will a scalp massage feel heavenly, but it also will help stimulate blood circulation to your hair follicles – especially when used in conjunction with scalp-stimulating essential oils such as peppermint, rosemary, lavender and lemongrass. Some of these oils reduce dandruff and fight fungus, further enhancing chances of healthier hair growth.
Detox your hair
Exfoliate your hair? Indeed! Just like skin, your hair and scalp can accumulate dead skin cells and hair product buildup, which can clog follicles and impede new hair growth. By applying a simple mixture of ½ cup each of bentonite clay, apple cider vinegar and aloe vera gel (and letting it sit for 10 minutes before rinsing), you can strip away buildup, revealing cleaner, healthier new hair, Once you’ve done your natural hair detox, be sure to lock in moisture with a leave-in conditioner.
Eat a diet rich in vitamins, proteins and minerals
To ‘feed those follicles,’ make sure you’re supplying your body with the proper nutrients like collagen-producing vitamin C (berries, red bell peppers, citrus fruits, broccoli), iron-rich foods (spinach, beans, red meats) and lean proteins (plain greek yogurt, salmon, legumes). Plant-based proteins are especially important for vegetarians and vegans to incorporate – so be sure to load up on foods like quinoa, lentils, chickpeas, beans and tofu!
Drink plenty of water
Just like you need to supply your body with the right proteins, vitamins and minerals, you also need to hydrate from the inside out! By giving your body enough water, it can build healthier, flexible new hair that can hold up longer.
Get your beauty sleep
When we sleep, our bodies repair themselves – and that includes our hair! Aim for between seven and nine hours per night – and while you’re at it, switch to a silk pillowcase. Silk is gentler than cotton, helping to safeguard your hair from friction and breakage.
Protect from heat damage
Along with shading it from the sun (a cute hat works wonders!), go easy on the heat styling and harsh products (like hairspray). If you must use a flat iron or curling iron, use a thermal protectant, and keep the tool on the lowest setting possible to avoid overheating and damaging your hair.
Switch out your shampoo
Instead of generic shampoos and conditioners, look for products containing hair-growth-boosting biotin, keratin and amino acids. Also, be sure to look for chemical-free (specifically, sulfate-free, paraben-free) options as they can strip your hair of its natural oils that help keep it lubricated.
Get a trim
Sometimes all it takes to revive the look and fullness of your hair is to clean it up at your local hair salon. Not only will it help your existing hair look its best, but a pampering trip like this can also unwind and de-stress you.
When to see a professional
If you’ve tried all you can to repair, strengthen and rebuild your hair with natural remedies but it just hasn’t helped, it may be time to connect with your doctor. There may be other options for you to help improve your hair’s health and thickness.
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