The weight loss journey is not an easy one, especially for women who have never been to the gym or don’t believe in exercise. Foodies will also find it difficult to follow strict diet plans. But if losing weight is your goal, you need to make some sacrifices. Before you start the journey, you should know that it is not just extra pounds that you will lose. There can be side effects of weight loss, and that includes hair loss!
Health Shots linked up with Dr Kuna Ramdas, Senior Dermatologist, Kamineni Hospitals, Hyderabad, to find out how hair loss and weight loss are linked. He says one of the most common side effects of weight loss is hair loss. Therefore, it is important to understand why it happens and what can be done about it.
Hair loss problems after losing weight
In this day and age, we want everything to be done quickly. We want to wrap up work quickly, reach a destination within a few minutes or finish a meal quickly and lose weight during the week! There is always a quick weight loss option that women can go for, but that comes with side effects. Dr. Ramdas says that if you lose weight too quickly, your body becomes stressed. This can cause changes in your hormone levels and nutrient deficiencies, both of which can lead to hair loss. Also, when you are calorie deficient, your body may prioritize vital organs over hair growth, leading to hair loss or shedding.
Regrowth after hair loss due to weight loss
The good news is that hair loss due to weight loss is usually temporary. Once your body begins to adjust to your new weight and your nutrient levels are restored, your hair should begin to grow again. However, it may take several months for significant regrowth, the expert said.
Tips to stop hair loss after losing weight
The best way to prevent hair loss during weight loss is to lose weight slowly and in a healthy way. This means eating a nutritious diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, and avoiding junk food. If you have already lost your hair, there are a few things you can do,
1. Talk to your doctor
Your doctor can help you identify any nutritional deficiencies or hormonal imbalances that may be contributing to your hair loss. The specialist may advise you to seek supplements or medication if necessary.
2. Be gentle with your hair
Avoid pulling or twisting your hair, and be gentle while combing your hair. Also, use mild shampoos and conditioners.
3. Reduce stress
Stress at work or fitness goals can increase hair loss, so try incorporating stress-reducing activities such as yoga, meditation or deep breathing into your routine.
Ways to regrow hair after losing weight
If you don’t want to wait too long, you can try a few things.
1. Skin massage
This expert says that massaging your scalp increases blood flow to the hair follicles, which can promote growth. Use your fingers (try not to have long nails) to gently massage your scalp for a few minutes each day.
2. Essential oils
Other essential oils like lavender and peppermint have been shown to promote hair growth, says Dr Ramdas. Mix a few drops with a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba, and apply it to your scalp.
3. Aloe vera
Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe an irritated scalp and promote hair growth. Get some fresh aloe vera gel and apply it on your scalp. Leave it on your scalp for 30 minutes and then wash it off.
4. Biotin
Dr. Ramdas says that biotin is a B vitamin, which is necessary for proper hair growth. You can easily find its supplements in health food stores.
Hair loss after thinning can be frustrating, but don’t stress about it as it is usually temporary.
