Hair loss is a common issue faced by many men. Stress, hormonal changes, poor nutrition, skin conditions, and excessive hair care are just a few of the factors that contribute to hair loss. In some cases, men may worry that growing their hair out may cause more hair loss due to excessive care. However, by acquiring the necessary knowledge, you can understand the reason for this misconception and learn how to resolve it.
Does Growing Hair Lead to Hair Loss?
Hair growth and hair loss are part of the same natural process. During the growth cycle, hair forms, grows, sheds, and then regenerates. Therefore, it's possible for hair growth and hair loss to influence each other. However, it's not accurate to say that growing hair directly causes hair loss. Growing hair is a separate process that supports the normal hair growth cycle. Hair loss, on the other hand, refers to a strand detaching from the follicle, and it does not return.
To understand the effects of hair growth on hair loss, the methods used to grow hair must be examined. The first step in growing hair is to nourish the body from the inside. Hair is primarily made of keratin, a protein. Nutrients such as protein, zinc, iron, and vitamins A, C, and E help support hair health in men. Regular exercise, adequate sleep, and a stress-free lifestyle also have positive effects on hair. A healthy hair care routine, along with regular haircuts, can also help maintain hair health.
If a man develops the healthy lifestyle and hair care routine, as mentioned above, hair loss can be prevented. By following a routine prescribed by a doctor or a specialist, hair health can be maintained. However, improper care and methods may lead to the opposite results.
Does Growing Hair Increase Hair Loss in Men?
There is no evidence to suggest that growing hair in men increases hair loss. Under normal conditions, growing hair doesn’t cause it to fall out. However, using chemical products to speed up hair growth can lead to negative results, such as increased hair loss. Additionally, applying various tools or hands during the process can physically damage the hair. Heat styling tools, commonly used in hair growth practices, can also cause damage to the hair.
Sometimes, people overdo their hair care routine in an attempt to create a more effective routine. They may use excessive amounts of products frequently. Overdoing hair care prevents the hair from recovering. This can slow down natural growth process. The result is hair shedding, which occurs due to damage to the hair growth cycle. Moreover, product buildup on the scalp can also have harmful effects.
Does Having Long Hair Speed Up Hair Loss in Men?
The length of the hair does not accelerate hair loss in men. The hair strands are composed of dead cells. Only the root of the hair is alive and continually produces new hair under healthy conditions. However, issues may occur in poorly maintained hair.
The dead hair strands are carried by the hair follicles. The hair follicles are directly linked to the body’s circulatory system. Through blood circulation, nutrients and oxygen are delivered to the follicles. These vital nutrients enable the follicles not only to produce hair but also to support and carry the growing strands. The ability of a hair follicle to support hair growth depends on its health. If the follicles are unhealthy, additional hair strands can place excess strain on the roots, leading to hair loss.
The misconception that long hair causes hair loss could be caused by a lack of proper hair care. Men who fail to develop a healthy care routine, adopt healthy habits, or live under stress may experience hair loss. Such issues can even occur in men with short hair. If the roots become weakened due to prolonged hair growth, the problem may become more noticeable. Therefore, the problem is usually not the length of the hair, but the lack of proper care. For an accurate diagnosis, consulting a specialist is advised.