Human hair generally grows half an inch per month, on average. Consequently, a healthy person’s hair can increase by around six inches annually. However, hair growth problems can interfere with the typical growth rate. Knowing the factors affecting hair growth can help you control them to maximize hair growth and health. This blog post explores common hair problems and the factors affecting your strands’ growth.
Genes
Some people are genetically prone to dihydrotestosterone or DHT, which causes miniaturization of hair follicles. Consequently, hair’s overall volume decreases as it gets thinner. Eventually, follicles can stop producing hair, leading to baldness.
Age
Males’ and females’ hair loss incidences correspond to age. As a person gets older, hair loss chances increase. Hair growth slows down in some people as they age. Thus, age is a significant factor affecting hair growth.
Diet
Excessive use of some nutritional supplements, such as vitamins A, E, and selenium, can cause hair loss. Follicles and scalp health are significant factors affecting hair growth. Therefore, including fresh vegetables and fruits in your diet can boost hair growth. Also, proper nutrition can lead to more robust, glowing locks. B vitamins can mainly promote healthier hair growth. Also, zinc, iron, silica, and iodine are vital minerals for hair growth.
Stress
Physical and emotional stress can also affect hair growth. Therefore, learning to control anxiety can enhance hair growth. Excessive pressure puts follicles in an extended resting phase of your hair cycle. Thus, it slows down the rate at which your hair grows.
Climate
Most healthcare experts suggest that strands grow faster in warmer climates. However, sun can also damage hair and the scalp. Therefore, they recommend protecting your hair from UVA and UVB rays by wearing a hat or sunscreen during summer. Also, cold can affect the rate at which your hair grows by making your strands fragile, dry, and brittle.
Hormones
Some hormones can affect your hair growth. Testosterone, estrogen, and thyroid hormones can all affect the rate at which your hair grows. Hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can cause hair loss. Estrogen hormone in females can increase follicles, especially during pregnancy. After childbirth, this hormone reduces, causing hair shedding. Testosterone hormone combines with 5-alpha reductase or 5 AR, forming DHT. DHT is the leading cause of baldness in males and females.
Health Conditions
Some medical or health conditions can also affect hair growth. They include the following:
- Scalp infections
- Thyroid problems
- Lupus
- Alopecia areatea
- Lichen planus
These health issues can affect your hair’s general condition and growth.
Lifestyle
Several lifestyle factors can also affect the rate at which your hair grows. For instance, haircare experts have linked smoking to premature hair aging and baldness. Also, exposing hair to heavy metals, such as thallium and mercury, can cause alopecia. Therefore, taking things moderately and leading a healthier lifestyle can promote hair growth.
Hair Products and Treatments
Some hair treatments or styling products can interfere with the natural hair growth. For instance, some people interfere with their natural hair growth to create stylish hairdos. They damage or break their strands and cause hair thinning or loss. Also, blow-drying or shampooing too frequently with hot styling tools that pull hair or style it into tight ponytails can interfere with its growth rate. Also, vigorously rubbing the scalp can cause hair loss. Relaxers, perms, and hair dyes can also damage hair, interfering with its growth.
Conclusion
Common hair growth problems and the factors affecting hair growth are the primary reasons many struggle to get radiant, glowing strands. Moderating hair styling, paying attention to your diet, and using quality haircare products can help you enhance hair growth. Also, seek medical care if your health condition interferes with your hair growth rate. Most importantly, eat foods and use products that provide the nutrients your scalp and hair need to stay healthy.
