Hair loss is a big concern for most men as they age. Some men may experience hair loss earlier in life, while others have thicker hair for much longer. Hair loss can be genetic or it can be caused by stress, hormone changes, diet, and/or aging. It can be something that feels embarrassing for many men, so it’s understandable that many would want to reduce their risk and keep as much hair as possible.
So, are redhead men at more of a risk of hair loss? Here’s what we know:
Most redheads appear to have thick, lush hair but looks can be deceiving. Both male and female redheads have fewer strands of hair on their heads than their blonde and brunette counterparts. Redheads average around 90,000 strands while people with brown and black hair have around 110,000 strands and blondes have a whopping 150,000 strands on average. Even though redheads have fewer strands, red hair strands are almost always thicker than any of the other hair colors. This can cause redheads’ hair to appear thicker and fuller.
So what does this mean for hair loss? Well, unfortunately, it means redheads have fewer strands to lose. When redheads experience hair loss at a rapid rate or over an extended period, it can feel as though they are going bald quicker. For men who experience male pattern baldness or any other form of hair loss, this could mean you lose your hair or start showing signs of hair loss sooner than someone with another hair color might.
Winter hair loss
Another factor that can play into ginger hair loss is something called winter hair loss. This refers to hair loss experienced in cold climates. This is because the cold, dry air removes the moisture from the scalp, causing it to become dry, which can lead to excess hair loss. Some people refer to this as winter shedding, but for those experiencing hair loss year-round, the winter season can speed up the process. According to Robotic Hair Restoration of Long Island, redheads are more prone to experiencing winter hair loss.
How to improve hair loss
So what can redhead men do to improve their odds of keeping a full or fuller head of hair? While some hair loss is simply unavoidable, you can care for your hair by keeping it hydrated and moisturized, keeping your scalp clean and healthy, eating a balanced diet, and keeping your stress levels low.
While genetics largely determine hair loss, there are some steps redhead men can take to potentially maintain a fuller head of hair:
1. Maintain a healthy lifestyle: A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, regular exercise, and managing stress levels can support overall health, including hair health.
2. Avoid damaging hair practices: Minimize the use of harsh hair treatments, excessive heat styling, and tight hairstyles that can stress the hair follicles.
3. Use gentle hair care products: Opt for mild shampoos and conditioners formulated for your hair type to avoid stripping natural oils and causing scalp irritation.
4. Consider medication: Some over-the-counter or prescription medications, such as minoxidil (Rogaine) or finasteride (Propecia), may help slow down hair loss or promote hair regrowth. Consult with a healthcare professional before starting any medication.
5. Protect hair from the sun: UV radiation can damage hair follicles, so wearing a hat or using hair products with UV protection can help safeguard your hair.
6. Regular scalp massages: Massaging the scalp can stimulate blood flow to the hair follicles, promoting hair growth.
7. Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water is essential for overall health, including hair health.
8. Consult a dermatologist: If experiencing significant hair loss, consulting a dermatologist can help determine the cause and explore treatment options tailored to individual needs.
Rock it like a Redhead!
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