10 Tips to Prevent Hair Thinning and Breakage
Updated: Jan 26

Cotton headband: Funny Girl Designs
First things first: why an article about preventing hair loss in a magazine about hair covering?
Simply put: even women who cover their hair want to look and feel like their healthiest, best self.
Furthermore, some headscarf techniques need a high, sturdy hair bun for support.
Hair loss is distressing, no matter who you are and how you dress. I know the pain, as it's something I've been personally battling for over a year.
Keep reading for 10 tools and tips to turn the ship around and get your healthiest hair yet.
1. Prevent traction alopecia
The best advice I've gotten recently is from my dermatologist. She said not to have your hair always pulled in the same direction. Doing so could cause traction alopecia, which is shedding due to stress on the hair roots.
So basically, don't have your hair pulled tightly back into a high pony all the time. Sometimes have it brushed downward in a low pony, and other times loose.
2. Try red light therapy

I have been using this red light wand by HairMax for over a year now. I've been using it specifically along my front hairline, and am pleased with the results.
At-home laser tools by iRestore, Capilus, and Theradome have gotten great reviews. To see real results, you'll need to use them for at least six months.
3. Nutrafol and Viviscal

Hair growth supplements like Viviscal and Nutrafol are clinically proven to increase hair density on the scalp, eyebrows, and lashes. You can get them online, or from your dermatologist.
If oral supplements aren't your style, taking regular multivitamins can help. They ensure that you get adequate nutrition daily, especially vitamin D and iron.
This article is not intended to treat or cure any illness. Please consult a medical professional before trying any of these treatments.
4. Minoxidil
Minoxidil, aka Rogaine, is the gold standard for topical hair growth treatments. You can get it as a serum, spray, or even as an oral medication. I got my 5% minoxidil serum from my derm. When it runs out, I plan to use this brand by CostCo, since it's more affordable.
5. Nioxin shampoo

System 2 shampoo by hair growth brand Nioxin contains caffeine, biotin, and niacinamide to stimulate growth.
Keeping your scalp clean is essential to promoting hair growth. If you have dandruff, use a shampoo with ketoconazole, like Nizarol. Ongoing inflammation from dandruff can prevent optimal hair growth.
Another tip from the dermatologist: avoid over- or under-washing your scalp.
6. Soft hair ties

These soft nylon hair ties have been a game-changer for me. No more ripping out hair at the end of the day. They come in cute colors like beige, blush pink, brown, and eucalyptus.
Silk hair ties are also a great way to prevent breakage. This is because silk doesn't absorb as much moisture as other fibers.
6. Soft hair brushes

I use this soft boar bristle brush to reign in stray hairs along my hairline. This creates a neat and tidy effect when I'm wearing scarves and hats.
The wood bristle brush by the same brand gently detangles without causing breakage or excess shedding.
I especially love that both of these brushes are small for easy storage.
7. Careful when brushing wet hair!

Be careful when brushing after the shower or pool. Your hair is most fragile when wet.
Detangle the roots first, then start brushing closer to the roots. Stop brushing your hair when it's just detangled, not more.
I love how gentle this Wet Brush is. And again, love the mini size.
8. A silky pillowcase

A silk (or silky) pillowcase goes a long way in preventing hair breakage. Mine is by iluminage, and contains copper for its skincare benefits.
This pillowcase by slip is 100% silk. It comes in 14 fun colors. Pair it with this silk sleep turban for even more protection. Avoid sleeping with wet hair, since hair is more prone to breakage when wet.
You can find affordable silk pillowcases (under $50) from Walmart here.
9. A microfiber towel

Microfiber towels dry your hair faster than traditional bath towels.
As mentioned earlier, your hair is most fragile when wet. The faster you can dry your hair, the better!
10. Conditioning and detangling spray
Grow Long leave-in conditioner spray by hair care line Marc Anthony contains biotin and vitamin E. I love the subtle vanilla aroma of Honest Beauty's detangling spray. I use these sprays in addition to Dove (rinse out) conditioner.
More options
Another option is microneedling. I haven't personally tried it, but it's widely used to encourage hair growth.
If your hair shedding persists, see a dermatologist. He or she may recommend doing bloodwork, specifically for vitamin D, thyroid, and iron.
I, and many others, have walked this path. You're not alone. And you're still beautiful.
Thank you for reading!
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