Although balding is a natural occurrence that has been noted for centuries, there are relatively few people who can face this life change with a genuine smile on their face. In many instances, the onset of hair loss causes a great deal of stress. In response to thinning, it is only natural to want to know more. Why is hair not as thick and lustrous as it used to be? What can be done to correct the problem? To discover solutions for hair loss, it is first necessary to overcome common myths, such as those we’ll mention here.
Hair loss is my fault because I wear a ball cap
Many men wear a beanie or ball cap on a regular basis. For many years, the prevailing notion that hat-wearing is a contributing factor to hair loss at any age. This can actually be somewhat of a tricky myth to tackle because there is a potential for hair growth to be affected by hats. The only way for this to happen, though, is if you wear your hat extremely tight. The constrictive nature of a very tight hat, we’re talking swim cap tight, can lead to what is called “traction alopecia.” This type of hair loss is most often associated with hairstyles such as tight braids and ponytails. Hats, not so much. So don’t go changing your fashion style to save your hair.
Hair loss is my fault because I brush my hair a lot.
There are grooming habits that could harm your hair. For example, if you brush your hair when it’s wet, there is a pretty good chance that some breakage will occur. This type of damage may create breakage, but it is not a cause of balding.
Baldness comes from Mom’s Dad.
You may have heard that specific physical characteristics, including the texture and color of your hair, relate to your genes; specifically, that these physical traits are handed down from your grandfather on your mother’s side of the family. In fact, hair growth – and the lack thereof – is a polygenic trait, meaning that several of your ancestors play a role in giving you susceptibility to hair loss.
Dr. Walden is committed to innovative medicine. In our Austin office, hair loss may be addressed with platelet-rich plasma treatments or by using the process known as follicular unit extraction with the use SmartGraft. To discover how we can help you restore thickness and health to your hair, contact us at 512-328-4100.
