There are many common misconceptions surrounding hair loss. Because hair loss can affect a person’s appearance and overall self-esteem, people have come up with various worries about hair loss over the years. One recurring concern involves the wearing of hats that restricts airflow to the follicles, resulting in weakened strands.  

Common Fears Regarding Hats and Hair Loss

While the fears of hat-wearing tied to hair loss have persisted for years, it is actually a myth. On the contrary, hats provide your hair with added protection against UV rays and environmental pollutants that damage the scalp and follicles. 

Fear #1: Restricted Air Flow

The prolonged wearing of hats does not deprive your follicles of the oxygen required to grow healthy and luscious hair. Your hair does not absorb oxygen from the surrounding air, but rather, receives a constant supply from within your blood vessels.

Fear #2: Traction Alopecia 

Traction alopecia could have originated the myth of hat-related hair loss. The condition occurs with repetitive tension on hair strands that damages the scalp and follicles. However, hat placements (even for tight fits) don't usually create the amount of tension responsible for traction alopecia. In most cases, sufferers of the condition attribute the damage to hairstyles (e.g., braids and ponytails) that tug tightly at the follicles. 

Despite the unwarranted fears related to hats and hair loss, it is important to select the right hat. You might like to measure your head dimensions for a snug (but not constrictive) fit.  The ideally sized hat should accommodate about one finger-width of space between your hat and your head. Also, consider smooth, natural, and breathable fabrics like cotton and bamboo.

Wear Your Fave Hats with Confidence

Hats ultimately have little to no connection to hair loss. At most, you might accidentally yank a few strands off when removing a tight hat, but this shouldn’t cause severe hair loss. In many cases, hair loss occurs as a result of genetics, hormonal changes, stress, or health conditions that disrupt healthy hair growth.  

Consider the following healthy hair practices to avoid brittle and broken strands and wear your favorite hats with peace of mind:

Maintain a healthy and balanced diet: Foods rich in Vitamin E, iron, and zinc keep your follicles nourished for optimal growth.

Avoid harmful hair products: Heated styling devices like straighteners and haircare products with ingredients like sulfates and denatured alcohol can cause lasting damage to your roots. Consider replacing harsh products with organic treatments containing natural ingredients. 

Practice mindfulness - Meditation practices can help reduce high-stress levels that result in conditions like trichotillomania, a hair-pulling condition linked to hair loss.  

While hats may not be the primary cause of your concern, you should seek professional advice from a hair specialist if you suspect signs of hair loss. A trusted specialist can help you get to the root of the problem without guesswork. Hair loss is a highly treatable issue and the faster you seek treatment, the quicker the recovery.  

If you're suffering from hair loss, New-U can help. To schedule a free consultation, click here.

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