Hair loss can trigger a sense of alarm, which is why many people facing an unusual amount of hair loss turn to Google for reassurance.
While hair loss is a natural part of aging, understanding what’s normal versus when to seek help is important.
With winter in full swing, seasonal changes might lead to more noticeable hair loss than usual.
The Hair Transplant Clinic Vera Clinic looked at the most Googled questions surrounding hair loss in the United States according to their average monthly search volume and answered a few, to help you understand what’s happening up there.
1. Does creatine cause hair loss? – 15,000 average monthly searches
Creatine is popular among athletes and is found in many exercise-focused supplements and powders as it helps increase muscle mass, improve overall strength, and physical performance.
Evidence comes from one study on rugby players, showing creatine use increased DHT levels, a hormone linked to hair loss.
However, the results from this study have not been replicated, and intense resistance exercise on its own can cause increases in these hormones.
Therefore, the evidence recorded for this question is not sufficient to prove there is any link between creatine intake and hair loss.
2. How much hair loss is normal? – 3,700 average monthly searches
Adults normally shed between 50 and 100 strands of hair daily on average, which resembles a small bundle in the palm of your hand.
This is normally more than people expect, but here are some signs to look out for:
- Large clumps: Hair on shower drains, pillowcases, or brushes.
- Excessive loss: More than 150 strands daily.
- Visible changes: Bald patches or thinning.
In these cases, if you notice these signs and they are a cause for concern, it is best to consult a professional.
3. Do hats cause hair loss? – 3,500 average monthly searches
Hats can be a common scapegoat for hair loss, as when you lose your daily strands of hair, they stick to the brim of your hat, so it is an easy connection to make.
Hats can also flatten your hair and make hair loss more noticeable, but although they may make existing loss more apparent, they don’t actually contribute to it.
Wearing a hat has no impact on your DHT levels, which is the primary cause of hair loss. It is no different from your pillowcase in terms of places you are likely to encourage existing loose strands to transfer to.
4. Does stress cause hair loss? – 2,100 average monthly searches
Stress is linked to hair loss and can contribute to three types:
- Telogen Effluvium
Stress pushes many hair follicles into a resting phase, causing sudden hair loss during combing or washing. - Trichotillomania
A compulsive urge to pull out hair, often triggered by stress, boredom, or frustration. - Alopecia Areata
Severe stress may trigger the immune system to attack hair follicles, leading to hair loss.
Stress-related hair loss isn’t always permanent; reducing stress may allow regrowth.
5. What shampoo is good for hair loss? – 1,300 average monthly searches
Rather than focusing on shampoos that claim to combat hair loss, prioritise avoiding harmful ingredients to keep your hair strong and healthy.
1. Sulfates
Sulfates are chemicals with strong cleansing agents that may damage the hair follicle and lead to breakage, which can contribute to hair loss.
2. Formaldehyde
Although safe in small amounts, formaldehyde extends product shelf life but is a carcinogen at high levels.
It can irritate the skin, eyes, and lungs, especially in salon workers or users of hair treatments.
DMDM hydantoin, a formaldehyde donor, may cause scalp irritation linked to hair loss.
3. Keratin
Used to reduce frizz and add shine, keratin treatments often contain formaldehyde and use high heat, which can damage hair, causing brittleness and breakage.
4. Dimethicone
Dimethicone is a silicone that protects hair but may cause buildup, potentially blocking nutrients. Use cautiously and stop if buildup or hair loss occurs.
However, sensitivity to ingredients varies; what causes hair loss for one person might not affect another.
A spokesperson from Hair Transplant Clinic Vera Clinic has commented,
“There’s no reason to feel embarrassed or self-conscious about hair loss, as everyone experiences it to some degree during their lifetime.
“However, it’s helpful to understand the information around hair loss, so you know when it becomes a cause for concern.
“A personalized approach considering baldness severity, lifestyle, and treatment preferences is essential.”
–
This post brought to you by Vera Clinic.
Photo: iStock
