Hair Care
What are the reasons of Premature graying of hair?

Hair tends to loose its natural color with the age but many youngsters are suffering from this problem nowadays and it has become a matter of concern for many. The melanin pigment is responsible for providing color to hair and is synthesized by protein. Lack of this pigment may result in graying of hair. There are many other factors such as inadequate diet, fault living style, and use of chemicals, harsh shampoos and stress. Some chronic health disorders like anemia and constipation also cause premature graying of hair.

Who is at risk for getting head lice?

Anyone who comes in close contact with someone who already has head lice, or their contaminated clothing and other belongings is at risk for acquiring head lice. Preschool and elementary school children (age 3-10 years) and their families are infected most often. Girls contract head lice more often than boys; women more often than men. African-Americans rarely acquire head lice.

What is Pediculosis?

It is also known as lice infestation. Unhygienic conditions often results in lice infestation. The people with long hair are more prone to lice infestation. The pediculosis causes itching and abrasions on the scalp of the skin and can accelerate the hair fall. It is one of the most common contagious childhood diseases. Head lice are totally non-discriminating and can infest people of any lifestyle, age, race, or socio-economic status. Lice can multiply and spread quickly from one host to another.

What causes excessive hair loss?

A number of things can cause excessive hair loss. For example, about 3 or 4 months after an illness or a major surgery, you may suddenly lose a large amount of hair. This hair loss is related to the stress of the illness and is temporary.

Hormonal problems may cause hair loss. If your thyroid gland is overactive or underactive, your hair may fall out. This hair loss usually can be helped by treatment thyroid disease. Hair loss may occur if male or female hormones, known as androgens and estrogens, are out of balance. Correcting the hormone imbalance may stop your hair loss.

Many women notice hair loss about 3 months after they've had a baby. This loss is also related to hormones. During pregnancy, high levels of certain hormones cause the body to keep hair that would normally fall out. When the hormones return to pre-pregnancy levels, that hair falls out and the normal cycle of growth and loss starts again.

Some medicines can cause hair loss. This type of hair loss improves when you stop taking the medicine. Medicines that can cause hair loss include blood thinners (also called anticoagulants), medicines used for gout, medicines used in chemotherapy to treat cancer, vitamin A (if too much is taken), birth control pills and antidepressants.

Certain infections can cause hair loss. Fungal infections of the scalp can cause hair loss in children. The infection is easily treated with antifungal medicines.

Finally, hair loss may occur as part of an underlying disease, such as lupus or diabetes. Since hair loss may be an early sign of a disease, it is important to find the cause so that it can be treated.

How can I control my hair fall?

Eating a balanced, healthy diet is important for healthy hair. And don't forget to treat your hair well. For example, some doctors recommend using baby shampoo, shampooing no more than once a day, and lathering gently. Don't rub your hair too vigorously with a towel, either. Many hair experts suggest you consider putting away the blow-dryer and air drying your hair instead. If you can't live without your blow-dryer, try using it on a low heat setting.

Style your hair when it's dry or damp. Styling your hair while it's wet can cause it to stretch and break. And try to avoid teasing your hair, which can also cause damage. Finally, be careful when using chemicals — such as straighteners or color — on your hair.