PCOS hair loss is a common problem for women who suffer from the condition. Fortunately, there are many things that you can do to manage your mane and reduce hair loss. In this blog post, we will discuss 11 steps that you can take to keep your hair looking healthy and full!
Contents
What Is PCOS?
PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects women of childbearing age. It is characterized by the presence of high levels of androgens, or male hormones, in the body. These hormones can lead to a variety of symptoms, including irregular periods, weight gain, acne, and thinning hair. The mentioned symptoms can be difficult to manage, but there are treatments available that can help.
People with PCOS often have an imbalance of reproductive hormones. This means that the ovaries produce more androgens than they should. Androgens are important for the development of male sex characteristics, such as facial hair and a deep voice. However, they can also cause problems in women, including PCOS hair loss.
Why does PCOS cause hair loss?
Hair loss in PCOS is a result of the hormonal imbalance mentioned earlier. It is quite common, affecting up to 70% of women who have the condition. There are several reasons why hair loss occurs in PCOS. A few of the most common reasons are:
Hormonal Imbalance
PCOS is characterized by a hormonal imbalance. This means that there is an excess of androgens, or male hormones, in the body. Androgens can cause the hair follicles to shrink, which leads to thinning hair. It means that the hair follicles are not able to produce new hair effectively.
Inflammation
PCOS can also cause inflammation in the body. It is caused due to the presence of high levels of androgens in the body. Inflammation is one of the major factors that can lead to hair loss. When the body is inflamed, the hair follicles are not able to produce new hair effectively which leads to hair loss.
Genetics
PCOS hair loss can also be due to genetics. If any of your close family members have suffered from hair loss, then you are more likely to suffer from it as well. When it comes to hair loss, genetics plays a very important role. Also, if you are of Caucasian descent, then you are more likely to suffer from PCOS hair loss.
Stress
Another common reason for hair loss in PCOS is stress. Stress can cause the body to produce more androgens, which can lead to hair loss. It can also trigger inflammation and disrupt the normal hair growth cycle.
Inadequate Nutrition
Poor nutrition is another common reason for hair loss. People with PCOS often have nutritional deficiencies. This is because the hormonal imbalance can disrupt the body’s ability to absorb nutrients from food. This can lead to deficiencies in vitamins and minerals, which are necessary for healthy hair growth.
Lack of Exercise
Lack of exercise is another factor that can contribute to hair loss in PCOS. Exercise helps to regulate the levels of androgens in the body. When you are physically active, your body is able to use androgens more effectively. This can help to reduce hair loss in PCOS.
Sleep Deprivation
Sleep deprivation is another common problem in PCOS. This is because the hormonal imbalance can cause sleep problems. When you are not able to get enough sleep, your body is not able to rest and repair itself. It is important to get enough sleep to prevent hair loss.
These are some of the common reasons for hair loss in PCOS. Now that we know the causes, let’s take a look at some of the ways to prevent it.
11 Steps to Reduce PCOS Hair Loss
Fortunately, there are many things that you can do to manage PCOS hair loss. It is important to note that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. What works for one person may not work for another. It is important to find what works best for you and to be patient. Here are 11 tips and tricks for keeping your hair healthy and full:
Get regular exercise
One of the best things that you can do to reduce hair loss is to get regular exercise. Exercise helps to regulate the levels of androgens in the body. It also helps to reduce inflammation and improve circulation. All of these factors can help to prevent hair loss. You can try any type of exercise that you enjoy, such as walking, running, biking, or swimming. Try to get at least 30 minutes of exercise every day. It is also important to exercise in moderation. If you overdo it, then you could actually make your hair loss worse.
Eat a healthy diet
Another important thing that you can do to reduce hair loss is to eat a healthy diet. A diet that is high in nutritious foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can help to reduce hair loss. It is also important to eat enough protein. Protein is necessary for the growth and maintenance of hair follicles. You should try to get at least 20 grams of protein per day. You can get protein from food sources, such as meat, poultry, fish, tofu, legumes, and eggs. It is also important to limit your intake of processed foods, sugary foods, and unhealthy fats.
Reduce stress
Stress can worsen hair loss, so it is important to find ways to reduce stress in your life. There are many different ways that you can do this. You can try relaxation techniques, such as yoga or meditation. You can also try to get more sleep and exercise regularly. Reducing stress can help to improve your overall health and well-being. You should also try to avoid stressful situations if possible. By doing this, you can help to prevent hair loss caused by stress in PCOS.
Avoid crash diets
Crash diets can actually worsen hair loss in PCOS. This is because crash diets can cause nutritional deficiencies. When you are not getting enough nutrients, your body is not able to grow hair properly. In addition, crash diets can trigger inflammation and disrupt the normal hair growth cycle. If you are trying to lose weight, it is important to do it in a healthy way. You should speak with your doctor about a weight loss plan that is right for you. Do not try to lose weight quickly by crash dieting.
Get enough sleep
Sleep is important for overall health and well-being. It is also necessary for the growth and maintenance of hair follicles. When you are not getting enough sleep, your body is not able to rest and repair itself. This can lead to hair loss. Try to get at least eight hours of sleep every night. You can also try to take a nap during the day if you are feeling tired. It will help you to get the rest that you need. When you are well-rested, you will be able to better manage stress and other factors that can cause hair loss.
Take supplements
There are many different supplements that can help to reduce hair loss in PCOS. Supplements such as biotin, zinc, and omega-three fatty acids can all be helpful. You should speak with your doctor about which supplements are right for you. You may also want to try a multivitamin to make sure that you are getting all of the nutrients that you need. When you are taking supplements, it is important to follow the directions on the label. Do not take more than the recommended dosage as this could be harmful.
Avoid heating and chemical treatments
Heat and chemicals can damage your hair and make it more likely to fall out. You should avoid using hot tools, such as curling irons and blow dryers. If you must use them, make sure to use the lowest setting possible. You should also avoid using harsh chemicals, such as hair dyes and straighteners. If you do use these products, it is important to use them sparingly. When you are using heat or chemicals on your hair, you should always use a heat protectant. This will help to prevent damage and keep your hair healthy.
Use a gentle shampoo
When you have PCOS, it is important to use a gentle shampoo. Harsh shampoos can strip your hair of its natural oils. This can make your hair more likely to fall out. You should look for a shampoo that is sulfate-free and has a low pH level. Also, try to avoid using conditioner every day as this can also strip your hair of its natural oils. When you do use conditioner, make sure to rinse it out thoroughly. You should also avoid using products that contain alcohol as this can dry out your hair and make it fragile.
Brush your hair gently
Brushing your hair too forcefully can actually cause it to fall out. When you brush your hair, be sure to use a soft-bristled brush. Gently brush your hair from root to tip. Be careful not to pull or tug on your hair as this can also cause breakage. If you find that your hair is tangled, try using a wide-toothed comb to gently detangle it. When you are finished brushing your hair, be sure to use a leave-in conditioner to help keep it hydrated. You can also use wooden combs or brushes as these are less likely to damage your hair.
Wear a hat or scarf
If you are going to be outside in the sun, it is important to wear a hat or scarf. The sun can actually cause your hair to fall out. UV rays can damage your hair follicles and make them weaker. This can lead to thinning hair or even hair loss. If you are going to be in the sun for an extended period of time, make sure to wear sunscreen on your scalp to protect your hair follicles. No matter how tempting it is to get a tan, it is important to protect your hair from the sun.
Wear your hair up
When you have PCOS, you may find that your hair is thinner than it used to be. To help disguise this, you can try wearing your hair up. There are many different hairstyles that you can try. If you have long hair, you can try a bun or ponytail. If you have shorter hair, you can try a headband or clip. By wearing your hair up, you will help to give the appearance of fuller, thicker hair. It will also help to keep your hair out of your face. In this way, you can avoid having to style your hair as often. You can also try using dry shampoo to help give your hair some volume.
So there you have it, eleven tips to help reduce hair loss in PCOS. By following these tips, you can help to keep your hair healthy and strong. If you are concerned about hair loss, be sure to speak with your doctor. They can offer additional advice and treatment options.
Conclusion
While there is no surefire way to prevent hair loss associated with PCOS, there are a number of things you can do to manage the condition and keep your locks looking their best. By following the tips and tricks outlined above, you can help keep your mane healthy and strong – even in the face of PCOS.
Remember that PCOS hair loss is often cyclical, so don’t be discouraged if you experience a setback. With perseverance and the right treatment plan, you can overcome hair loss and enjoy a full, healthy head of hair once again.
You can choose to contact Mantra Care for assistance on PCOS and related hair loss problems. Their team of experts will be more than happy to help you develop a personalized Women Wellness Program that addresses your specific needs. You can also get in touch with our nutrition experts through our online nutrition counseling, who can guide you through the process and help you achieve your fitness goals.
