When we reach a certain age, we become increasingly concerned about how to care for and maintain our mature hair properly. Because of this, we know the components of our hair-care routine that you should avoid for your hair’s health.
When we first notice our hair becoming thinner and weaker, it is common to overlook the possibility that free radicals produced by environmental contaminants are to blame. However, these radicals can be the cause of hair loss. However, something we might not be aware of is the fact that we should also protect our hair from the pollution in the air.
According to research, the oxidative stress that air contaminants exert on our bodies affects our hair by causing damage to the proteins that make up our hair. This leads to two major adverse effects on our hair, the first of which is hair loss, and the second is greying. However, these are not the only potential adverse effects; you may also experience dullness, dirt and greasy accumulation, and an irritated scalp.
Environmental Factors That Lead to Hair Loss
According to recent findings published by the American Association for the Advancement of Science, air pollution is connected to hair loss. As a result, it is more vital than ever to protect your hair from the damaging effects of air pollution and other environmental factors. The following are some of the most significant triggers:
- Smoking or exposure to smoke
- Excess sun exposure or sunburn
- Substances emitted by burning fuel and exhaust.
- Pollen, dust, mold, ragweed, and pet dander are air allergens that can cause inflammatory responses.
How To Prevent Damage to Your Hair from Exposure to Polluted Air
It is necessary to place a barrier between the hair and air pollutants to protect it from damage caused by environmental toxins. This barrier may be a protective hair solution or a physical shield, such as a hat or a hair wrap.
However, there are other preventative measures that you may take to shield your scalp and hair from the damaging effects of air pollution. This article provides information that can help you keep your hair at its healthiest despite being exposed to pollution.
Cover Your Head and Hair with A Bandana or A Scarf
A hair wrap protects you from the wind and rain, among other benefits. It is a physical shield between your hair and environmental aggressors like pollen, mold, and air pollutants. Environment-related stressors like ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation have been linked to hair thinning and loss, whereas exposure to UVA radiation can alter hair color.
If you are going to go out and enjoy the beautiful spring weather, then you should ensure that you protect your hair as much as possible by wearing a head wrap or a nice hat that matches your attire.
Steer Clear of Products with A Sticky Texture
When you style your hair with chemicals that leave behind a sticky residue, you open the door for environmental pollutants to cling to your hair. Choose styling solutions that are water-based so that you can prevent air pollutants and hair loss. These products should also cover the hair cuticle to keep out free radicals.
Avoid using heavy, sticky style products if you want to preserve the health of your hair. Try out an alternative that is not sticky, light, and protects your hair from the damaging effects of heat styling and UV rays while helping to smooth and tame frizz without leaving any residue behind.
Include Deep Cleansing Care in Your Hair Loss Prevention Routine
It is common knowledge that a healthy scalp is a foundation for good hair. However, you might not be aware that hair can increase by roughly 4% of its weight due to pollutants, oil from the scalp, and product accumulation.
It would be best if you got to the root of the problem to combat the adverse effects of air pollutants and the accumulation that it causes on our hair. You can break down excessive pollution and oily accumulation on your scalp by including a clarifying hair cleanser in your pre-shampoo regimen. This method will also soothe the scalp, minimizing any inflammation that may be present.
Loosely Braid or Twist Your Hair
When you pull your hair back, you reduce its exposure to environmental irritants and allergens that float through the air. When there is less visible surface area, pollutants have less opportunity to access your strands.
Take It Easy with The Heat Tools
When heat is applied to hair that has not been safeguarded, the strands become brittle and may even bubble. As soon as the strands lose strength, they will be more susceptible to environmental pollutants and toxins damage.
Simply allowing your hair to air-dry or using a blow-dryer on the lowest heat setting is an easy and effective solution to the problem. Applying a heat protectant to your hair before using a blow dryer, straightener, or curling iron will help prevent damage from temperatures as high as 450 degrees Fahrenheit and the damaging effects of air pollution.
Ensure That Your Hair Is Hydrated and The Cuticles Are Closed
Our hair becomes drier and porous as we age, and its cuticles become less smooth. Because the cuticles are raised and rougher, they are more likely to lift, which makes the hair more sensitive to picking up odors and contaminants from air particles. A butter hair mask that is nourishing and rich is the best thing you can use to seal and smooth rough, elevated cuticles.
Consume Antioxidants to Prevent the Formation of Free Radicals Within Your Body
In addition to eating a diet rich in antioxidants, you may combat the free radicals that lead to hair loss and other forms of premature aging of the hair and scalp by taking a supplement formulated to improve the health of your scalp and hair from the inside out.
Conclusion
People who live in areas with high levels of air pollution have a greater likelihood of experiencing hair loss as a direct result of the air pollution. Keep in mind that giving your hair a little bit of extra attention and care will assist you in keeping it healthy and beautiful and protect it from pollutants.
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