|
|
|
|
BACK ISSUES | SEPTEMBER 2009 | CURRENT ISSUE
|
||
AUGUST 2009
Dr Taher Kudrati & Sveta Bhassin discuss how you can keep hairfall and dandruff at bay
In this issue we would discuss in general some of the common diseases and ailments that especially pop their heads out in the monsoon and harass you through the year if not treated properly with the right medicines and appropriate diet. Let us begin by addressing the traumatic problems of hair fall and dandruff.
Major causes
Though some amount of hair loss is natural, since, just like the leaves on a tree, the old hair falls off to make place for the new, today it has been observed that even teenagers are suffering from a serious problem of hair fall. But what is normal and what is serious? About 10-12 strands of hair falling a day is natural. However, more than that is something you should be concerned about.Now, you may ask, “I take bath twice a day, I wash my hair everyday, once-in-two-days or once-a-week (as the case may be), then why do I suffer from dandruff? Why does my hair fall so much?”
Well, the causes and reasons are many and varied — dry scalp, oily scalp, dust, pollution, grime and most importantly, poor nutrition and lack of exercise. Dandruff is also caused due to stress and abuse of hair and the scalp by inflicting on them chemicals from cosmetic products like hair colours, hair dyes; shampoos and so-called conditioners that in reality comprise substances that are irritants and damaging. Heredity and obesity also do play major roles in causing hair loss, but, it definitely does not happen while you are in your teens or even in your early twenties.
How do you recognise whether you have dandruff? It is usually in the form of extremely dry skin flakes that sit on hair strands and fall on the shoulders like a spray of white powder. Dandruff can also be sticky black brown chunks of oily smelling substance forming a thick film on the scalp. And in both the cases, the scalp itches vigorously and resulting in intense hair fall.
Medical cures
To cure dandruff, regularly shampoo your hair with a light, non-toxic shampoo with a high pH level like a baby shampoo or a mild anti-dandruff shampoo that is harmless to the scalp and hair. Wash-off the shampoo thoroughly ensuring no residue remains in your hair. Towel-dry your hair completely. Moist or wet hair is a breeding ground for grime and dirt. Also, avoid using a hair dryer. It parches all the natural moisture in your hair and makes it brittle. And if you just have to use one, use the cold draft and keep it at least six inches away from the hair. Avoid rough combing or brushing or massaging when your hair is wet. Wet hair is more fragile and thus more likely to break.Refrain from hairstyles that require you to pull tight your hair. As far as possible, avoid use of unnatural conditioners, hair styling gels, creams and hair colours. Do not wear tight-fitting hats, caps, scarves and bandanas. They contribute to poor blood circulation, choking of the pores with sweat. Sweat invites grime to build-up and block the pores, affecting follicle health, thereby stunting new growth. After swimming in a pool, shampoo your hair as soon as possible to remove any chlorine residue. Chlorine is extremely damaging to the hair and scalp.
Nutritious remedies
A nutritious, well-balanced diet is very important. Ensure your dietary intake has wholesome quantities of zinc, vitamin B complex and essential fatty acids so vital to healthy and strong hair. Hair is composed of protein strands. Eggs, fish, dals, sprouts and tofu (soya paneer) are excellent sources of simple, easy-to-digest, good quality proteins.Additionally, a good amount of fluid and fruit intake in the form of fresh juices and clean boiled water will help in harnessing hair fall. Flaxseed, almonds and walnuts if eaten regularly, provide essential fatty acids that aid hair growth.
Hair loss can also be attributed to chronic anaemia, i.e. a condition in which one has a below normal level of haemoglobin in the blood. In such a situation, figs, dates and all kinds of fresh green vegetables are your best friends that help you achieve and maintain a healthy level of haemoglobin.
Natural remedies
Soak fenugreek seeds overnight and grind them with curd the next morning. Smear the paste on your scalp and leave on for about 30 minutes. Wash your hair with a mild shampoo preferably baby shampoo. This will help in addressing both dandruff as well as hair fall.A good massage with fresh coconut milk arrests dandruff too while cooling your head and eyes. Gently massage for 3-5 minutes with only your fingertips. Take care that you don't scratch your scalp with your nails. Thereafter, use a wide toothed comb or brush with blunt ends and gently brush your hair in long, gentle strokes to prevent excessive pulling and breakage of weak hair.
Remember the mantra: “There is no substitute to exercise.” And by that we do not mean doing housework or travelling to and from school/college. You all must do some rigorous, structured exercise like swimming, cycling, running or gymming. Even after this if you still suffer from dandruff and/or hair fall, understand that you may be suffering from some scalp infection and need immediate specialised medical attention.
In the following months, we will tackle problems like acne, bad breath, indigestion, skin problems, low energy levels, inability to concentrate, eyestrain, short-sightedness, headaches, bad posture & computer usage related pains, body odour, obesity, anorexia, bulimia, nervousness, thyroid, dental problems. Phew!!! Isn't the list huge!!!
