Hair loss – besides being a common concern for many people worldwide, it can also be quite the mystery! Aside from being caused by various factors such as genetics, hormonal imbalance, and certain rare medical conditions, hair loss is often connected to some….weird phenomena, so to speak.
On that exact note, a question that often arises is whether particular weather changes can impact our hair (and scalps). It's a somewhat valid concern, as the weather can significantly impact our overall health, so who’s to say it doesn’t affect our follicles?
From frizz and dryness to sweat and UV rays, the weather and its associated effects can theoretically affect our hair – the question is, how? In today’s article, we will explore precisely how weather changes can impact our hair’s health and potentially contribute to hair loss. We will also provide some tips on caring for your hair and scalp to maintain healthy hair growth, no matter the weather outside!
Too Much Humidity
The amount of moisture in the air can have a notable marked effect on both your skin and your hair follicles! The humid air can cause your hair to become frizzy, dry, and even quite brittle, believe it or not.
This is because the excess moisture in the air can penetrate your hair shafts, causing them to swell and become frizzy. Furthermore, humidity can deplete your hair's natural moisture, turning it into a dry and brittle mess, increasing breakage, and eventually culminating in hair loss. Granted, the last part will vary from person to person.
Or Maybe Not Enough?
On the other hand, when the air is arid, it can also dehydrate your hair and make it similarly brittle. Insufficient moisture in the air can parch the hair follicles. Additionally, arid air can cause your scalp to become itchy in tandem with the aforementioned dryness, further contributing to follicle damage.
Your hair needs moisture to maintain its elasticity and strength. That part is evident by now; but lack of sufficient moisture can also lead to thinning in some indirect ways, as you may be prone to scratching it more often. Remember, habits can end up being your worst enemy!
To combat dry air and keep your hair and scalp healthy, you can try using a humidifier in your home or workplace to add moisture to the atmosphere. You can also use hair care products designed to hydrate and nourish your hair and scalp, such as deep conditioning formulas and leave-in conditioners.
Temperature Fluctuation
Another way in which weather can directly impact your hair is through extreme temperature shifts. When the weather is frigid, it can cause your hair to become dry and brittle because cold air – as we already mentioned above – reduces the amount of moisture in your strands and scalp, and is thus correlated with severe hair loss. Moreover, wearing hats or other winter gear can rub against your hair and cause friction, leading to constant stress on the follicles.
On the opposite spectrum, when the weather is very hot, it can cause your scalp to become sweaty and oily. The abundance of oil and dead skin cells can clog your hair follicles, cause the scalp to become a breeding ground for bacteria, and make it more difficult for new hair to grow. Exposure to the sun's harmful UV rays is also, to the surprise of no one, far from recommended!
Some Closing Notes
While environmental shifts can undoubtedly contribute to hair loss, it's important to remember that many other factors can also play a role. Genetics, hormones, and certain medical conditions can all contribute to hair loss, and it's essential to speak with a healthcare professional if you're experiencing significant hair loss.
It’s also good to keep in mind that different facets, while not severe on their own, can intertwine with each other to create adverse effects. In other words, the weather’s effect on your hair may just be a small part of a bigger, hair-loss-causing picture!
Weather can no doubt impact the health of your hair and potentially contribute to hair loss. However, many other factors can also play a role, and it's of key importance to take care of your hair and scalp year-round to maintain healthy hair growth. This includes staying hydrated, using gentle hair products, and protecting your hair and scalp from harsh weather conditions. By following these tips, you can help keep your hair healthy and strong, no matter what the weather is like outside.