Hair loss can occur in men and women throughout life for several reasons from hormonal changes and inherited conditions, to stress and poor nutritional status. Topical treatments and incorporating hair oiling into your routine could offer the missing link to healthier, stronger hair, stimulate growth, increase shine and promote a healthy scalp.
What causes hair loss?
The two main causes of hair loss are telogen effluvium and androgenic alopecia. Telogen effluvium is when the hair follicles enter the shedding phase too early and cause hair to fall out quicker than it should. This can be triggered by stress, illness, hormonal changes and nutritional deficiencies. Androgenic alopecia, also known as Male Pattern Hair Loss and Female Pattern Hair Loss, can occur when there’s an excess of the hormone Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) which can cause gradual thinning and is characterised by receding hair line and a wider parting. This type of hair loss is mostly genetic.
Hair Oiling – a deep-rooted practice with nourishing benefits
Hair oiling is an ancient practice which has been carried out for centuries by cultures using Ayurvedic practice. The ritual encourages hair growth, strength, shine and nourishment, making it a major part of beauty routines. Its benefits go deeper than just appearance. Hair oiling can also be seen as a form of self-care and a sacred act of giving back time to yourself.
Hair oils often contain cold pressed seed oils which are full of nutritional components like omega fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, all which help stimulate growth and strength of hair. Regular oiling helps to moisturise the scalp, reducing dryness and flakiness while promoting better blood circulation to the follicles, which can further encourage hair growth. Oil can also form a protective barrier to shield hair from environmental damage. Here are some oils to consider massaging through your hair and scalp.
- Castor oil is rich in vitamin E and fatty acids and can create a physical barrier around hair cells, preventing moisture loss which often makes hair strands look dull and dry. It is also nourishing and can help add gloss and shine.
- Black seed oil contains thymoquinone (TQ) which is an excellent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and has therapeutic properties. Some forms of alopecia cause hair loss which is related to oxidative stress and black seed oil’s properties may help to reverse this. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties may benefit those with an inflamed scalp if it is impacting the hair follicle health.
- Pumpkin seed oil is a source of unsaturated fatty acids, oleic acid and linoleic acid. These essential acids are reported to contribute to its hair growth potential via their anti-androgen effects. In one study, Pumpkin Seed Oil was trialled to treat hair thinning. Two groups of female patients were instructed to apply pumpkin seed oil or minoxidil. Pumpkin seed oil contains saturated and unsaturated fats including linoleic acid and palmitic acid. In one study, pumpkin seed oil was compared to a topical medication used to treat hair loss, minoxidil foam, for 3 months. After 3 months, there was an increase in regrowing hairs in the pumpkin seed oil group.
- Essential oils have been used traditionally to improve hair shine and condition. One study used a blend of essential oils of thyme, rosemary, lavender and cedarwood and led to significant hair growth in up to 75% of patients, whereas the placebo carrier oils led to hair growth in only 30% of patients. Rosemary contains naturally occurring antioxidants which help to protect from oxidative damage.
How a scalp massage can support hair growth
Massage therapy has been used by cultures all over the world to help with circulation and general hair health. Massaging oil into the head helps to warm the scalp, allowing the oils to penetrate into the hair follicles. Anything that encourages blood flow to the head and scalp can be beneficial for hair growth, and massaging is a quick and easy way to do this. Yoga and exercise will also encourage blood flow to the scalp.
To maximise any topical serum or oil and to encourage deep penetration of the oils and botanicals you can try a regenerating scalp massage each time you apply it.
A step-by-step guide to a regenerating scalp massage:
- First apply the serum across your scalp, as close to the roots as possible.
- Gently massage in with your fingers in a slow, circular motion. Starting at the front and working down the sides, across the crown and towards the nape. Don’t forget the hairline around the ears.
- Using firm, circular motion, massage for at least 2 minutes to stimulate blood flow and enhance absorption. Make sure you reach every part of your scalp. Take your time to unwind.
- Leave the serum on for at least an hour so the oils and botanicals can deeply nourish the scalp and follicles. Wrap the hair in a thin towel, or a hair wrap, tie in a bun, or leave it loose (just try to avoid any contact with any fabrics) For deep nourishment, you can choose to sleep with it in overnight in a headwrap.
- Rinse thoroughly with your usual shampoo (once or twice). Follow with your regular haircare and style as normal.
You can also use this routine on dry hair without the serum to massage and stimulate the scalp on any inbetween days where you aren’t using the serum.
Conclusion
Healthy hair starts by nourishing from the inside. Focussing on your nutrition and introducing a weekly scalp massage routine will help promote growth and restore vitality. When choosing supplements and hair serums to look for formulations that support scalp health, hair health, and hair growth. Opt for nutritionist formulated blends which avoid artificial additives, preservatives, fragrances or anything synthetic. For more information and advice, visit your local health food store at www.findahealthstore.com.
Author: Eleanor Faulkner, BSc, is a Nutrition Advisor at Viridian Nutrition. She holds a BSc honours degree in Food Technology with Nutrition.
References
Rossi, A., Priolo, L., Iorio, A., Vescarelli, E., Gerardi, M., Campo, D., Di Nunno, D., Ceccarelli, S., Calvieri, S., Angeloni, A. and Marchese, C., 2013. Evaluation of a therapeutic alternative for telogen effluvium: A pilot study.
Ibrahim IM, Hasan MS, Elsabaa KI, Elsaie ML. 2021. Pumpkin seed oil vs. minoxidil 5% topical foam for the treatment of female pattern hair loss: A randomized comparative trial. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology.;20(9):2867-2873. DOI: 10.1111/jocd.13976. PMID: 33544448.
Özmen, İ., Çalişkan, E., Arca, E., Açikgöz, G. and Koç, E., 2015. Efficacy of aromatherapy in the treatment of localized alopecia areata: A double-blind placebo controlled study. Gulhane Med J, 57(3), pp.233-236.
The information contained in this article is not intended to treat, diagnose or replace the advice of a health practitioner. Please consult a qualified health practitioner if you have a pre-existing health condition or are currently taking medication. Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet.
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