Home Remedies for Hair Loss

Home care cannot cure most hair loss, but gentle habits protect the hair you have and remove avoidable damage.

Hair care habits that help

• Wash with a mild shampoo as often as the scalp needs. Washing does not cause hair loss.
• Condition the lengths, and comb wet hair gently with a wide-toothed comb from the ends upward.
• Avoid tight ponytails, braids and buns, and rest the hair from extensions.
• Limit heat styling, bleaching, colouring and chemical straightening.
• Let hair air-dry or use a low heat setting.
• Use a soft pillowcase and avoid sleeping with tight bands.

Scalp massage

A few minutes of gentle massage with plain coconut or sesame oil is a common Indian practice. It may feel relaxing, but proof that it regrows hair is limited. Skip oils if the scalp is inflamed or flaky from infection, and wash oil out the same day.

Whole-body habits

• Eat regular meals with enough protein, iron-rich foods and greens.
• Sleep 7 to 8 hours and manage stress with walking, yoga or breathing practice.
• Stop smoking, which is linked to thinning.

What to be careful about

Onion juice, egg masks, lemon and other kitchen mixes have little reliable evidence and can cause irritation or allergy. Test on a small area first and stop if there is burning or rash.

Key point

If shedding lasts beyond 6 to 8 weeks or you see patches, home care is not enough, so see a doctor.

Before your appointment

Note when shedding began, how much you lose, and any recent illness, fever, surgery, crash diet, new medicine or stress. Bring recent blood reports such as ferritin, thyroid, B12 and vitamin D, a list of the products you use, and monthly photos of your parting. Mention any family history of hair loss or autoimmune disease.