1) Too much indoors and a lack of stimulation leads to a decrease in blood flow and a sluggish scalp, thereby creating a scale-like build-up, leading to hair loss if left unchecked:
Using fingertips (not nails), use rotary movements and massage entire scalp for five-ten' minutes. Find legitimate reasons to get outside, you need sun and air, keep your blinds open. In extreme cases, a medicated shampoo and ointment may be necessary.
2) Preventative maintenance is simply to keep hair looking and feeling healthy daily. Shampoo hair only when dirty, average is twice per week, once in some cases and three times if overly oily. Keep dry hair and scalp lightly moisturised at all times. For longer hair that mats, gently detangle daily, starting at the back, using a wide-tooth comb. (Leave in treatments, hair strengtheners and hair vitamins could also be beneficial at this time).
3) Resist the temptation to apply strong chemicals at home, for example, high volume peroxides and ammonia, relaxers and bleaches. Also, avoid the use of hot irons and similar implements. Do not keep tension on any part of the head, especially the front where it is weakest, using bands and clips. Basically, do not do anything that could lead to hair trauma, breakage or hair loss.
4) Keep your immune system strong. Eat well-balanced meals, use more natural foods, including vegetables, fruits various peas and beans and nuts, natural cereals like oats and barley etc, smoothie concoctions are excellent. Limit considerably chemically preserved and processed and refined foods that are usually low in nutritional value. Also monitor oily, sugar and salt-based foods. Gradually increase your water intake, starting with a glass first thing in the morning to cleanse the system.
5) Resist and rebuke negative thoughts. Worry and anxiety are two major contributors to hair loss. Keep your mind and spirit confident and positive. Cultivate an attitude of gratitude, constantly being appreciative by giving praise and thanks in how much you have, before complaining about what you do not have. The perfect way to start your day together with a smile.
6) If your hair has become too long and stringy, or too thick and bulky and you can't stand it any longer, a measure of relief can be had. At your own risk, part your hair into four quarts beginning at the back, take one-inch sections and carefully cut off no more than one inch at a time, off the ends only. If in doubt keep your hair healthy, control it and wait.
7) There is no substitute for exercise. Follow a video; there are many available for all ages and fitness levels that can be done right in your own home. Walk every chance you get, clean your yard, whatever and just keep moving. Exercise is the best overall immune system builder, it keeps the body in order, wards off diseases and produces endorphins which uplifts and boosts your mood. Proven homemade immune boosters are ginger, lemon, citrus, Vit C, garlic, turmeric and zinc. (Google other natural superfoods and daily recommendation).
Dwight and Ave Gonsalves are professional hairstylists.
