By Dr. Rishabh Raj Sharma, MD Dermatology, Senior Resident, Noida International Institute of Medical Sciences and Hospital, Noida International University-
Do vitamin d3 levels determine hair quality? How can this vitamin improve hair growth and which foods to eat for it?
Vitamin D3 is essential for overall health, and it may play a role in hair health as well. While the direct impact of vitamin D3 levels on hair quality is not fully understood, deficiency in this vitamin has been associated with hair loss and other hair-related issues. Here’s how vitamin D3 may contribute to hair growth and some foods that can help increase your vitamin D levels:
Hair Follicle Health: Vitamin D receptors are present in hair follicles, and adequate levels of vitamin D are believed to be important for maintaining healthy hair follicles.
Cell Growth and Differentiation: Vitamin D is involved in cell growth and differentiation, which are critical processes in hair follicle development and maintenance.
Reducing Hair Loss: Some studies suggest that vitamin D deficiency may be linked to certain types of hair loss, including alopecia areata.
To improve hair growth and overall health, consider including these vitamin D-rich foods in your diet:
Fatty Fish: Sardines, salmon, and mackerel are great providers of vitamin D.
Egg Yolks: The amount of vitamin D in egg yolks varies. Remember that overindulging in raw egg whites over an extended time may disrupt the absorption of biotin, another nutrient critical to healthy hair.
Fortified Foods: Many foods are fortified with vitamin D, including fortified dairy products (milk, yogurt), orange juice, and breakfast cereals.
Cod Liver Oil: This is a potent source of vitamin D, but it should be taken in moderation due to its high vitamin A content.
Sun Exposure: The most natural way for your body to produce vitamin D is through exposure to sunlight. Spend some time outdoors, but be mindful of sun protection to prevent skin damage.
Do hair growth serums help in hair growth? Which ingredients help?
Hair growth serums can be formulated with various ingredients that are believed to promote hair growth or improve the overall health of hair. However, the effectiveness of these products can vary, and individual responses may differ. Following are some hair growth serums:
Minoxidil: This is an FDA-approved topical medication for promoting hair growth. It is believed to increase blood flow to the hair follicles, leading to improved hair growth. Minoxidil is a common ingredient in over-the-counter hair growth serums.
Biotin (Vitamin B7): Biotin is a water-soluble vitamin that is often included in hair care products. While biotin deficiency can lead to hair loss, there is limited evidence to support the use of biotin supplements for individuals with normal biotin levels.
Caffeine: Some studies suggest that topical application of caffeine can stimulate hair follicles and promote hair growth.
Peptides: Certain peptides, such as copper peptides, are believed to have potential benefits for hair growth. They may stimulate collagen production and improve blood circulation to the scalp.
Redensyl: This is a patented ingredient that combines several compounds, and it’s claimed to promote hair growth by targeting hair follicle stem cells.
Rosemary Oil: Essential oils like rosemary oil are sometimes included in hair growth products. Rosemary oil is believed to improve blood circulation in the scalp and may have anti-inflammatory properties.
Why should we use sulphate-free shampoos? How can sulphates affect hair?
Sulfates are a type of detergent commonly used in many shampoos, and they are responsible for creating the lathering or foaming effect during washing. Sodium laureth sulphate (SLES) and sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) are the two sulphates that are most frequently found in shampoos. While sulfates effectively remove dirt and oil from the hair and scalp, there are reasons why some people prefer sulfate-free shampoos:
Drying Effect: Sulfates can strip the hair and scalp of natural oils, leading to dryness. This can be particularly problematic for individuals with naturally dry or curly hair, as these hair types are more prone to dryness and frizz.
Irritation: Sulfates may irritate the scalp, especially for individuals with sensitive skin or those prone to conditions like eczema or dermatitis. They may deplete the scalp’s natural oils, causing it to become dry and itchy.
Color Fading: Sulfates can contribute to color fading in dyed hair. They may strip away the color molecules more quickly than sulfate-free alternatives, leading to premature fading.
Curl Pattern Disturbance: Sulfates can disrupt the natural curl pattern of curly or wavy hair. This is because they strip away the natural oils that help define and maintain curls.
Using sulfate-free shampoos can help mitigate these issues and provide a gentler cleansing experience for the hair and scalp. Sulfate-free formulations often use milder surfactants or cleansers that clean without stripping away as much natural oil.
How can a scalp massager help hair growth? How frequently should we use it?
As a dermatologist, I can explain that scalp massagers may contribute to improved hair growth by enhancing blood circulation to the hair follicles. The increased blood flow delivers more oxygen and nutrients, promoting a healthier scalp environment for optimal hair growth. Additionally, massaging the scalp can help reduce stress and tension, which are known to contribute to hair loss.
The frequency of use depends on individual preferences and hair conditions. Using a scalp massager a few times a week during shampooing is generally safe. However, it’s essential to be gentle to avoid irritation or damage. Consistency is key, and incorporating a scalp massager into your routine may complement overall hair care for those seeking improved hair health.
How does rosemary oil help with hair?
Rosemary oil is believed to offer several benefits for hair health, although scientific evidence is limited. Here are some ways in which rosemary oil is thought to contribute to hair health:
Improved Blood Circulation: Massaging rosemary oil onto the scalp is believed to stimulate blood circulation. Better blood flow to the hair follicles can provide more nutrients and oxygen, promoting hair growth and overall scalp health.
DHT Inhibition: Some studies suggest that rosemary oil may help inhibit the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone associated with hair loss. By reducing DHT levels, rosemary oil could potentially contribute to preventing or slowing down hair loss.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Rosemary oil is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation of the scalp can contribute to hair loss, and using rosemary oil may help reduce inflammation, promoting a healthier scalp environment.
Dandruff Reduction: The antimicrobial properties of rosemary oil may help combat dandruff and other scalp conditions. A healthier scalp can contribute to improved hair quality.
Strengthens Hair: Rosemary oil is rich in antioxidants, which can help strengthen hair and prevent damage. It may also improve the overall texture and shine of the hair.
To use rosemary oil for hair, you can:
Massage: Mix a few drops of rosemary oil with a carrier oil (like jojoba or coconut oil) and massage it into the scalp. Before washing it off, let it sit for at least thirty minutes.
To Your Regular Shampoo or Conditioner: Mix a few drops of rosemary oil into the mixture.
DIY Hair Mask: Combine rosemary oil with other beneficial ingredients like yogurt or honey to create a DIY hair mask.
Although many people claim that using rosemary oil on their hair has great effects, each person’s experience may differ. It’s crucial to conduct a patch test to look for allergic responses and speak with a dermatologist or medical practitioner, particularly if you have any underlying scalp issues.
