Source: National Today
National Hair Loss Awareness Month, observed in the month of August each year, highlights the need to be talk about hair and the impact hair loss can have in our lives. It’s a misconception to think that hair loss is primarily an issue for males, as it can affect many females and children too. While men may be more susceptible to issues like male-pattern baldness and alopecia, thinning hair and alarming levels of hair fall in women and children are also causes for concern these days. There are several factors that can affect hair loss — heredity, acute stress, disease, medical treatments (like chemotherapy), strong medications, dietary restrictions, grooming and styling practices, trauma, and even pregnancy.
According to research, over 80 million Americans are affected by hair loss, and 40% of those affected are actually women. Androgenic hair loss (female or male pattern baldness) is one of the most common causes. They say that by the age of 35, most men would have experienced some form of hair loss, and with so many being affected by this issue, the American Academy of Dermatology decided to officially declare August as National Hair Loss Awareness Month. The goal of National Hair Loss Awareness Month is naturally to spread awareness about this growing cause for concern, which many people are too embarrassed to talk about. By observing this month, those who suffer from hair loss-related issues can be educated about their condition and empowered to reach out for help to discover the potential causes and treatments which exist for them. And most importantly, it shows them that they are not alone in this.
HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL HAIR LOSS AWARENESS MONTH
- Seek solutions or options
The most commonly researched and touted drugs for promoting hair regrowth are Finasteride and Minoxidil, both of which are F.D.A. approved. For women, hormone therapy is often done. As for surgical procedures, hair follicle grafting and transplants and gene therapy are also on the rise. If you are looking for more natural solutions, Laser Hair Therapy and PRP are also widely available and have proved effective in slowing and in some cases reversing the loss. Hairpieces or wigs are also an option for those who do not want invasive medical treatment of any kind. Before you make any decision, it is always recommended to seek the opinion of a Hair Specialist.
- Join an event
With the entire month of August being dedicated to hair loss awareness, there will be something for everyone to participate in. And if there isn’t, why not create your own way of raising awareness about hair loss. Off the top of our head, a few suggestions include awareness drives at your local school or community center, backyard hair spas for the neighborhood, collaborations with pharmacies to bust common hair-loss myths and help educate people.
- Invest in your own hair care
There’s no time like the present to start taking better care of the hair you do have. Products that thicken the shaft of your hair provide a fuller look, especially keratin-based ones. Washing hair using a gentle shampoo, and leave-in conditioner, is a better option. Forego heat treatments, including hot oil therapy. All it takes is a bit of research to ensure healthier hair.
WHY NATIONAL HAIR LOSS AWARENESS MONTH IS IMPORTANT
- It addresses an age-old issue
Hair loss has been an issue for as long as human vanity has been around — i.e., a very long time. What is important is that the issue is now beginning to leave the shroud of shame that historically surrounded it and is being talked about more openly. This can encourage society itself to be more accepting of hair loss and empathetic to those who may be suffering from it.
- It educates us
The fact that hair loss is more common than we know and that it affects both the sexes is something that needs to be brought to light. Since many people are at risk, it is important to be educated about hair care methods, hair loss prevention (if possible), and the safe options which exist for those who do not wish to go through life without a head of hair.
- It redefines beauty
The spread of hair loss awareness has helped redefine beauty ideals itself, as more and more people have been empowered to show the world how bald can also be beautiful. Campaigns and beauty industries have begun celebrating baldness, and many celebrities (both male and female) have normalized baldness by showcasing their own. So whether by choice or not, people need not experience the crippling self-esteem issues or shame which used to accompany hair loss. Instead, they can be empowered to make their own choices.