Receding hairline
A receding hairline is a type of hair loss affecting both men and women.
A receding hairline is a type of hair loss affecting both men and women. As the name suggests, a receding hairline causes hair loss along the hairline. This is different from the overall thinning hair and bald spots that may appear on the top or back of the head. A receding hairline is generally seen in people with a positive family history of this pattern of hair loss. Some of the causes of a receding hairline include:
- Hereditary causes
- Hormonal changes (for example, in pregnancy, PCOS or polycystic ovarian syndrome, and hypothyroidism)
- Stress
- Nutritional deficiencies (such as iron deficiency anemia, lack of adequate proteins in the diet, and vitamin deficiencies)
- Certain medications (such as medicines for high blood pressure or high cholesterol)
- Chemotherapy
- Inflammatory diseases affecting the scalp (such as eczema and psoriasis)
- Tying the hair too tightly
- Deadlocks
- Harsh hair products and frequent heat styling of the hair
There is no guaranteed remedy to stop or re-grow the receding hairline. You can, however, adopt certain ways to minimize hair loss and get healthier and fuller hair. If you have a receding hairline, you must contact a board-certified dermatologist at the earliest to get the best results. Some of the ways you can manage a receding hairline and prevent further hair loss are:
- Eat a wholesome diet: Your hair needs adequate nourishment to grow. Thus, it is important to treat the cause of hair fall from within by taking a healthy diet rich in proteins, minerals, and vitamins. Following fad diets could lead to nutrient deficiencies leading to excessive hair loss. Some of the food items that you can include in your diet to get healthy hair include eggs, fish, berries, nuts, leafy greens (such as spinach), and fruits (such as avocados and oranges). You could take over the counter (OTC) multivitamins or ask your doctor to suggest appropriate multivitamins and other supplements for healthy hair. Micronutrients, such as biotin, vitamin C, and E, can make your hair grow faster and thicker. You may also take omega-3 fatty acid supplements, such as fish oil capsules, to stimulate hair growth. You may consult your nutritionist to know whether you need any health supplement as excess intake of certain nutrients can make hair loss worse.
- Avoid tight hairstyles: Tying your hair too tightly, such as in a bun, can make them prone to break and fall. This can worsen a receding hairline.
- Avoid using heat for styling your hair: Blow drying hair or using curling irons for styling can strip away the natural oils and moisture from your hair, making them brittle and vulnerable to hair fall.
- Medications: OTC medications, such as Minoxidil, may help grow back the receding hairline. These medications may cause an initial hair loss before the hair starts growing again. You must consult your dermatologist to know which medications will work best for you. Your doctor may prescribe medications, such as Finasteride, to correct the hormonal imbalances associated with a receding hairline.
- Avoid using harmful chemicals on hair: Chemicals present in certain hair colors or solutions used for perming or straightening the hair may make your hairline worse. Always consult with an expert to know about the least damaging hair colors and aftercare needed after coloring or styling your hair. Use a gentle shampoo to wash your hair. Moisturize your hair with a mild hair conditioner after shampoo.
- Manage stress: Stress is one of the commonest causes of a receding hairline. Pursue stress-relieving hobbies, such as music, yoga, games, and meditation, to manage the stress.
If home management of your receding hairline does not help, you can consult your doctor. They may recommend procedures, such as laser therapy and hair restoration surgery (hair transplant), to help you with the receding hairline.