According to a study that checked the influence of fuel particles and dust on human scalp cells, it was determined that air pollution could cause hair loss. In this study, researchers discovered that when human hair is exposed to common air pollutants, it decreases four important hair protein levels, i.e., beta-catenin, CDK2, cyclin D1, and cyclin E. These are directly responsible for human hair retention and growth.
Impact of Air Pollution on Hair Loss
Air pollution can significantly affect the health of your scalp and hair follicles. Studies state that hair loss due to air pollution can be similar to that caused by male-pattern baldness. It can also trigger other issues like scar alopecia, alopecia areata, and chronic telogen effluvium.
Air pollution can also cause the following hair problems:
- Excessive sweating
- Distributed hair loss throughout the scalp
- Hair fragility and dryness
- Peeling or dandruff, particularly in certain areas of the scalp where sweat retention happens.
- Irritation and redness in the scalp, along with itching
- Swelling and edema around hair follicles
- An excess in the secretion of sebum, leading to oily scalp
How to Protect Your Hair from Pollution?
You should protect your scalp and hair because they are one of the main parts of your body affected by air pollution, oxidative stress, and external pollutants. To do so, you must take extra care to keep your scalp and hair hygiene. Also, having a balanced and healthy diet can strengthen your hair and make it less prone to damage from air pollution.
However, if the effects of air pollution have already damaged your hair and you want to reverse it, you need to use medical solutions, like hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is an exceptional hair protector. It works on your scalp by making your hair follicles more resistant to damage. Additionally, it also moisturizes hair follicles and prevents them from falling out. Also, hyaluronic acid is used in hair mesotherapy, a non-surgical substitute for hair regrowth.
See Also: How Are Scalp Psoriasis and Hair Loss Linked?
People who inhabit a highly air-polluted area are at a higher risk of suffering hair loss due to air pollution. Remember that a little extra care and effort will protect your hair from pollution and help you keep it luscious and healthy.
Here Are Some Simple Tips to Protect Your Hair From Pollutants:
1. Cover Your Hair Whenever Possible
You can use a scarf or hat to cover your hair. This will protect it from getting in direct contact with dust and air pollutants.
2. Wash Your Hair Regularly
Make a habit of washing your hair regularly to keep the pollutants away and prevent itchiness and dandruff. Use sulfate-free mild shampoos for daily hair wash and apply the shampoo on your scalp. Once the shampoo is applied, rinse thoroughly and always re-hydrate your hair from mid-lengths to ends using a good quality conditioner.
3. Avoid Using Mechanical Tools
Remember that hair frequently exposed to high pollution is susceptible to damage, split ends, and brittleness. So, it is best to avoid using mechanical tools like straighteners or hair dryers, which can further increase the chances of damage to your hair.
4. Apply Hair Serum
If you cannot cover your hair, you should apply a good quality protective serum before you go out. The hair serum will form a thin covering layer over your hair and safeguard it from several types of hazardous gasses and pollutants.
See Also: How Can I Get Rid of My Hairline Pimples?
Now, if you live in an area where air pollution is comparatively high and experience excessive hair loss or hair thinning symptoms, fix an appointment with a hair specialist doctor in NJ at New Jersey Hair Restoration Center. On the other hand, if you are facing unexplained hair loss or damage, we have a panel of doctors highly experienced in hair restoration. That’s why we are considered one of the best hair loss treatments providers in New Jersey.
We use some of the best hair transplant treatments available, including PRP therapy, FUE hair transplant, and FUT hair transplant. At New Jersey Hair Restoration Center, our hair restoration doctors are highly experienced in all types of hair treatments
