Dermatologist: Ignoring a hat in the cold can lead to hair loss - IA SM.news

Protect yourself from the elements to maintain healthy hair

During the cold winter months, it's crucial to protect our bodies from the harsh elements. One often-overlooked area is our hair. While we may bundle up in warm hats and scarves to shield our heads from the cold, many fail to recognize the potential damage that can be caused by neglecting to cover our hair.

Cold-Related Hair Loss: A Real Concern

Dr. Ekaterina Karpova, a dermatologist at the Russian Medical Academy of Postgraduate Education, warns that prolonged exposure to cold weather without proper head covering can lead to hair loss. This condition, known as telogen effluvium, occurs when hair follicles prematurely enter the resting phase, resulting in excessive hair shedding.

When we venture out into the cold without a hat, our blood vessels constrict in an effort to conserve heat. This narrowing of the vessels restricts blood flow to the scalp, depriving hair follicles of essential nutrients and oxygen.

Hair follicles require an optimal temperature for healthy growth. When temperatures drop significantly, hair follicles become weakened, and hair growth slows down. Prolonged exposure to extreme cold can even lead to permanent hair damage and baldness.

Tips for Protecting Your Hair from the Cold

To prevent cold-related hair loss and maintain healthy hair during the winter months, Dr. Karpova recommends following these simple steps:

• Wear a warm hat made of natural materials, such as wool or cashmere, whenever you go outside.
• Cover your ears and neck with a scarf or balaclava.
• Avoid using harsh hair products that can strip your hair of its natural oils.
• Moisturize your hair regularly with a leave-in conditioner to protect it from dryness.
• Eat a healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals that promote hair growth.

Conclusion

Protecting our hair from the cold is just as important as protecting the rest of our bodies. By taking simple precautions, we can prevent hair loss and maintain healthy, beautiful hair throughout the winter months.

Remember, ignoring a hat in the cold can lead to hair loss. So, bundle up and protect your hair from the elements!