Winter brings a pleasant feeling with its chilly air and warm clothes, but it is a big "challenge" for hair.
Many people notice that hair becomes dry, brittle, and falls out more than usual during the cold months. According to dermatologists, this is a common phenomenon and can be controlled if the cause is understood correctly.
Dr. Panchami Debbarman - a dermatologist in Kolkata (India) - said that cold air and low humidity are the main factors that cause hair weakness in winter.
When the weather is dry, the scalp is easily dehydrated, reducing the layer of natural oils that play a protective role in hair fibers. This makes hair brittle, prone to breakage and split ends.
In addition, low temperatures cause blood vessels on the scalp to constrict, reducing the amount of oxygen and nutrients that nourish hair follicles.
When the hair roots are not properly nourished, the hair will weaken and fall out more easily, explains Dr. Debbarman.
The habit of bathing in hot water and using shampoos with exfoliants also contributes to aggravating this condition, as they wash away the scalp's natural protective oils.
Another less noticeable cause is the lack of sunlight in winter. Reduced exposure to sunlight can lead to vitamin D deficiency, a nutrient important for hair growth cycle.
In addition, a diet lacking in iron, biotin and zinc also slows down hair growth, causing more hair loss.
Stress during holidays, changes in your daily life or winter illnesses such as flu can also cause telogen effluvium hair loss, which usually occurs 2 - 3 months later.
To protect hair in winter, Dr. Debbarman recommends building a gentle care routine.
First of all, wash your hair with warm water instead of hot water, only wash 2-3 times a week with a mild shampoo, not containing sulfate. After washing, use a conditioner on the sides and ends of your hair, leave it for 3 - 5 minutes to increase moisture.
Deep moisturization is also very necessary. Once a week, you can apply a hair mask with natural oils such as coconut oil, argan oil or almond oil.
Gently massaging the scalp and kept hair on for about 20 minutes can significantly reduce breakage and improve hair shining.
In addition, scalp care plays an important role. For prolonged hair loss, you can consider using a scalp care serum containing peptides, combined with a 5-minute massage per day to increase blood circulation.
When styling, avoid tying your hair too tightly, limit the use of a dryer and a thermomachine. Sleeping on a silk pillow and using a toothbrush also helps reduce friction, limiting hair breakage.
Regarding nutrition, doctors recommend supplementing foods rich in omega-3 such as salmon, walnuts, flaxseeds; increase biotin from eggs and nuts.
Drinking enough water, using a humidifier in the room and maintaining quality sleep also contribute to improving hair health.
Dr. Debbarman notes that if severe hair loss lasts for more than six weeks, with pale patches, scalp pain or unusually wide hairline, patients should see a dermatologist to rule out underlying problems such as endocrine disorders, anemia or thyroid disease.
(The article is for reference only, not a replacement for professional advice. Always consult a doctor or medical professional if you have any questions).
