7 myths and truths about hair loss –

Frightened by the amount of hair that appears on the brush, on the bathroom floor, on the pillow and on the car seat? Before you despair, get to know the myths surrounding the subject…

1. Is it possible to know when the fall is exaggerated?

TRUE. It is normal for up to 100 hairs to fall out a day, warns dermatologist Karla Assed, a member of the Brazilian Society of Dermatology and the American Academy of Dermatology. It is not necessary to count, but observe if they are appearing everywhere in the house, on the pillow, in the car and, mainly, if slight flaws begin to appear on the scalp (the so-called progressive capillary rarefaction). In that case, look for a dermatologist to assess the condition and guide the best treatment.

2. Does combing wet hair speed up hair loss?

TRUE. It becomes fragile when wet and, when untangling it, the tendency is to pull the threads and break them. Trauma can affect the root, causing the fall, informs the dermatologist. Those who live with their hair tied up are also at risk, especially if the traction is very strong. To avoid problems, do not comb your hair in the shower. Dry it with a towel and, only then, untangle it with a wide-toothed comb, starting with the ends. Clip your hair only when it is dry and, if possible, not every day or for a long time.

3. Is sleeping with wet hair bad?

TRUE. It is better to review this practice. More fragile, wet strands break easily with pillow friction. Already the scalp is stuffy, taking longer to dry completely. This favors the proliferation of fungi and the appearance of dandruff and other diseases that lead to hair loss.

4. Does washing your hair every day get in the way?

MYTH. Practice does not cause fall. Unless you’re a fan of boiling baths. Very hot water stimulates the oiliness of the scalp. Therefore, even in winter, prefer warm water.

5. Anti-hair loss shampoos sold in pharmacies solve the problem?

IT DEPENDS. A test carried out at the beginning of the year by the laboratory Kosmoscience – consultancy and technical assistance in cosmetics – showed that the eight evaluated brands prevent a maximum of 86 hairs per month from falling out, usually caused by traction (external aggression). So, if you are experiencing severe hair loss, it is best to see a dermatologist to properly identify and treat the cause.

6. Does trimming the ends often strengthen the hair?

MYTH. Although widespread, this belief has no foundation. The cut eliminates split ends and damaged or dry areas, ensuring a softer touch and a healthy hair look. But it does not influence the growth rate of the thread, which revolves around one centimeter per month.

7. Does cutting on the waxing moon help your hair grow?

MYTH. “There are also no scientific studies proving this theory”, comments the dermatologist. “But a lot of people say it works.” So, if you want to try it, go ahead: it doesn’t hurt.