When winter comes, many people notice that their hair becomes drier, weaker, brittle, and seems to be "old forever". Even after using conditioners, conditioners, or restorative products, the amount of hair falling on pillows and in the bathroom is still higher than usual. According to dermatologists, this is a fairly common phenomenon and can be explained by physiological changes in the scalp in cold weather.
Dr. Shifa Yadav, a dermatologist specializing in skin and hair in India, said that winter does not completely stop hair growth but can significantly slow down the growth rate if the scalp is not properly cared for.
Why does hair grow slower in winter?
According to Dr. Shifa Yadav, low temperatures cause blood vessels under the scalp to contract, reducing oxygen and nutrients to hair follicles, a key factor for a stable hair growth cycle. In addition, shorter daytime makes the body synthesize less vitamin D, while this is an important micronutrient involved in regulating the activity of hair follicles.
A study published in 2021 in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology showed that low vitamin D levels are associated with hair growth cycle disorders and increased risk of seasonal hair loss. Cold, dry air and the use of heaters indoors also cause scalp peeling, irritability and weakening of natural protective barriers.
Dr. Wilma Bergfeld, dermatologist at Cleveland Clinic (USA), said: "Shadow is essentially skin. When environmental humidity drops sharply in winter, hair follicles are prone to biological stress, which affects the quality and speed of hair growth.
Does dry and broken hair make you feel like your hair is not growing?
The answer is yes. One of the biggest problems with hair in winter is loss of moisture. Cold air erodes the natural oil layer that protects hair strands, making hair brittle and brittle. When newly grown hair is continuously broken in the body, many people mistakenly believe that hair has stopped growing.
Wool hats, scarves and electrostatic phenomena in cold weather increase friction, causing hair to be messy, split ends and break and fall more often. If humidity is not controlled appropriately, even healthy hair can hardly maintain the desired length.
How does scalp massage and moisture play a role?
Head massage has been shown to be beneficial for hair growth. A study published in the journal ePlasty shows that people who massage their scalp daily have a clear improvement in hair thickness after 24 weeks.
Dr. Shifa Yadav recommends massaging the scalp for about 10 minutes each day with your fingertips in gentle circular motions. A small amount of ointment can be used to reduce friction and limit dry skin.
In addition, maintaining ambient humidity in the house at 30 - 50% with a moisturizer helps make the scalp more comfortable. Shampooing with warm water instead of hot water, combined with natural oils such as coconut oil, argan oil or ricin oil also helps lock moisture and protect hair strands from cold winds.
Nutrition and time to see a doctor
A diet lacking biotin, iron, zinc, omega-3 and vitamin D in winter can exacerbate hair loss. Research in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences shows that omega-3 fatty acids can support stimulating hair growth. Eggs, fatty fish, nuts, green leafy vegetables and avocados are foods to be prioritized.
Experts recommend using supplements only when there are medical indications. If hair loss is abnormal, patched hair loss, or inflammation or severe dandruff appear on the scalp, it is necessary to see a dermatologist early for appropriate treatment.
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