Does shaving your hair make it grow back darker and thicker?

Because you are removing the sun-exposed ends, the hair might look a bit darker initially. And when you shave hair, you leave a blunt end and remove only the fine tip, so it can look thicker at the end. But contrary to popular belief, shaving hair does not actually make it grow back thicker, neither does it affect the growth rate or the colour. Hair growth is governed by your hormones and your genetic makeup.

Does trimming hair help it grow thicker or healthier?

Trimming the hair removes the worn- and split ends that are fragile and appear fine.  By removing the ends, you end up with a thicker end of the hair shaft that doesn't appear worn. This, of course, feels thicker and healthier, so the hair ends appear thicker and healthier - but the hair itself isn't actually any thicker.

Is scalp massage really helpful for hair loss?

Scalp massage can stimulate blood circulation, which can help to support hair growth. Depending on the reason for the hair loss, it may be of assistance.

Why do men lose their hair more than women?

Men can go bald if they're genetically predisposed to thinning, but women can't. Both men and women can end up with thin hair due to health issues, medications or stress but men are also able to lose their hair for genetic reasons.

Which side of the family does the hair loss gene come from in men?

The gene can come from either parent.

What mainly causes hair loss?

There are lots of causes for hair loss: genetics, disease, injury, a systemic problem, damage to the skin from chemicals and the hair being pulled back too tightly. All these things can cause hair loss.

What actually causes grey hair?

Hair greying is technically caused by defective melanocyte stem cells. Ageing and genetics are the main factors for grey hair, but stress, mineral deficiencies, hormonal imbalances and health issues like hypo and hyperthyroidism, diabetes and polycystic ovarian syndrome can all contribute, too.

Honey and egg treatments are rumoured to help hair growth. Is there any truth to this?

Normally, hair growth depends on a good all-round diet, with adequate intake of protein, calcium, iron, and also other vitamins and minerals. Topical application of proteins isn't actually known to make any difference.
 

What causes dryness and oiliness of the scalp?

Excessive dryness and oiliness of the scalp can be an indication of internal problems and imbalance. Issues like kidney failure can cause hair and scalp to become dry and brittle. Where there is a hormonal imbalance such as overproduction of androgens, this can increase the oiliness of the hair and scalp. The reasons differ from person to person but if the dryness or oiliness is excessive, it's always best to seek professional advice.
 

What causes brittle hair that breaks easily?

Insufficient intake of iron and minerals is commonly the culprit.
 
If you have fine hair, is there anything to do to strengthen it?

If you have fine hair, genetically there is not much you can do about it aside from using styling products to achieve a fuller look.

It has been said that if you pluck out a grey hair, then two more will appear. Is this just an old wives' tale?

Pretty much, yes. But if you keep plucking out greys a bald patch might appear!

Does brushing your hair 100 strokes each night make it healthier?

The bristles on the scalp might help with scalp circulation, but over brushing the hair like this can possibly weaken and damage your hair.



Allison Browning