Pollution is everywhere. Every day, we are exposed to lots of toxic components. A study measured how fuel particles and dust affects human scalp cells. This study found that pollution cause hair loss: air pollution decreases the levels of four essential hair proteins (beta-catenin, CDK2, cyclin D1, and cyclin E). Without them, hair strands fall more and grow less.
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How does air pollution impact hair loss?
Air pollution is proven to impact scalp and hair follicles’ health. Pollution-induced hair loss pattern is similar to androgenic alopecia, the most common form of baldness in males. Pollution may also lead to hair disorders, such as chronic telogen effluvium, alopecia areata, and scar alopecia.
Many hair problems can result from air pollution:
- Intense sweating
- Diffuse hair loss
- Hair weakness and dryness
- Dandruff due to sweat retention
- Redness, irritation, and itching
- Hair follicles swelling and edema
- High secretion of sebum causes oily hair and scalp
Protecting hair against air pollution
Scalp and hair are the body parts air pollution affects the most. Hair and scalp are also sensitive to oxidative stress and external pollutants. The best way to protect the scalp and hair is to maintain good hygiene. Diet is also a crucial parameter to have healthy hair. Keeping the hair and scalp healthy helps them resist damage from air pollution.
If pollution has already damaged the hair, hyaluronic acid is the best solution to cure it. It helps to reinforce hair follicles to make them resistant to hair pollution. Hyaluronic acid also moistens hair follicles and reduces hair loss. Mesotherapy uses hyaluronic acid to help the hair grow back.
People living in regions with high air pollution levels suffer more from air pollution-related hair loss. Some simple tips may help to keep the hair and scalps healthy.
How to protect hair from air pollutants?
- Covering hair
Using a scarf or hat to cover hair helps prevent pollutants and dust from reaching the hair and scalp.
- Washing hair often
Regular washing helps to get rid of air pollutants. It also prevents dandruff and itchiness. Good quality shampoo and conditioner helps to keep healthy hair by washing and hydrating strands.
- Avoiding heat
Air pollution damages the hair, and using heat often does not help. Straighteners and hair dryers damage the hair and let even more hair pollutants get into it.
- Using hair serum
Using hair serum before going out helps prevent air pollutants from getting into the hair.
Hair restoration
Air pollution may cause hair loss and worsens pre-existing hair conditions, so some people need to get their hair surgically restored. A hair transplant is a great way to get luxurious hair. Hair Turkey is an expert in DHI hair transplant.
