Common Hair Problems And Their Treatments

Hair comes in different styles, colors, lengths, textures, and types. Yet, no matter what kind of hair you have, just about everyone falls prey to at least one hair problem.

“Your hair health needs constant, care, attention, and kindness. Hair is sensitive to changes in the environment, diet, and overall health. Identifying these changes and resorting to the wisdom of Ayurveda for their coping mechanisms can help maintain good hair health,” says Dr. Zeel Gandhi, Chief Ayurvedic Doctor at Vedix.

Top 10 Common Hair Problems

In this article, we discuss some of the most common hair problems, their causes, symptoms, and Ayurvedic solutions. Read on for more.

1. Dandruff

Dandruff causes the scalp to produce white flakes. It is a harmless, non-inflammatory skin condition that affects the scalp and can lead to hair loss [1].

Dandruff is of two types - dry and wet. Dry scalp mostly occurs in the winters when the dry weather and hot water soak up the natural oil from the scalp. Oily dandruff occurs when the scalp glands secrete excess sebum that accumulates on the scalp along with dust and forms flakes.

Symptoms

A. White Flakes In The Hair And Scalp: White flakes are the dead skin cells that are usually visible in the hair or on the shoulders and clothing.

B. Itching On The Scalp: Regular itching around the hairline or sideburns.

C. Dry Scalp: Scalp with no oil or less oil is known as dry scalp. Feeling dryness on the scalp is a common symptom of dandruff.

D. Greasy Hair/Scalp: Excessive production of sebum in the scalp causes greasy hair and scalp. E. Redness On The Scalp: Due to continuous itching or irritation, your scalp turns red.

Causes

A. Imbalance Of Doshas:  Ayurveda terms dandruff as Darunak and an imbalance in the three doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) can result in dandruff. Aggravated Vata and Pitta dosha dry up the natural oils in the scalp. An increase in Kapha causes excess production of sebum.

B. Irregular Washing Of Hair: Washing helps clean dirt and excess oil that accumulates on the scalp. Not washing your hair routinely can lead to hair damage and conditions like dandruff.

C. Seborrheic Dermatitis: This is a skin condition caused by Malassezia yeast, an organism found on the skin’s surface. It causes itching, redness, and greasy scalp that leads to oily dandruff.

D. Stress: Mental stress aggravates the Pitta dosha that triggers sebum production in the scalp and results in dandruff.

E. Sensitive Skin: Harmful chemicals present in hair care products can have a negative impact on sensitive skin and lead to dandruff.

Treatment Options

A. Hair Mask: Make a paste from any of these ingredients and apply it to your scalp. Leave it on for 20-30 minutes and rinse it off with a mild or herbal shampoo.

B. Oil Massage: Head massage with herbal oil is very effective in treating dry dandruff. Oil helps moisturize the scalp naturally and prevents dryness. You can use coconut oil, almond oil, tea tree oil, camphor oil, and neem oil to massage your scalp.

C. Regular Washing: Avoid washing your hair every day as it dries up the natural oil in your scalp. The dryness causes dandruff and itching that leads to hair fall. For oily dandruff, it is necessary to wash your hair at least twice or thrice a week with herbal shampoo to keep the scalp clean and healthy.

D. Ayurvedic Supplements: Khadirarishta, Amalaki Rasayana, Chalmogra Oil, Gandhak Rasayana, Neem Capsules, Sarivadyasava, Arogyavardhini Vati are some of the Ayurvedic supplements that help balance dosha levels and cure dandruff. But, consult an Ayurvedic doctor before consuming these supplements.

2. Hair Loss

It is the most common hair problem that can happen to anyone.

Symptoms

A. Receding Hairline: Thinning of hair from above the temples and across the head is often the first sign of hair loss.

B. Baldness: Permanent loss of hair from the scalp is called baldness.

C. Hair Thinning: If you can see your scalp through your hair, it means your hair is getting thinner.

D. Bald Patches: Loss of hair in small patches that are easily visible. It occurs mostly in the middle of the scalp.

Causes

A. Hormonal Imbalance: It is common for women to experience hair fall during pregnancy, menopause, and menstruation. These are the periods when hormones change rapidly in a woman's body.

B. Aging: Androgenic alopecia, male-pattern baldness, and female-pattern baldness are conditions that occur due to aging.

C. Stress: Telogen effluvium is a condition in which an individual faces temporary hair loss due to stress [2].

D. Excessive Use Of Harmful Chemicals: Chemicals like sulfates, sodium chloride, parabens, and propylene glycol are often found in shampoos and conditioners. These chemicals affect the health and growth of the hair.

E. Heat And Pollution: Excessive exposure to heat and pollution damages the hair by soaking up the natural oil in the scalp, leading to hair loss.

F. Scalp Infection: Any scalp infection causes itchiness, dryness, and redness on the scalp and can damage the hair follicles.

G. Medical Conditions: Thyroid, cancer, and PCOD can cause permanent or temporary hair loss.

H. Poor Diet: A diet lacking in vitamins and minerals weakens the hair roots and obstructs hair growth. [3]

I. Unhealthy Habits: Sleep deprivation, smoking, and excessive consumption of alcohol can affect the dosha levels and result in hair loss.

Treatment Options

A. Be gentle while combing and washing your hair.

B. Include vitamins and minerals in your diet.

C. Massage your scalp at least twice a week with herbal oil for 30 minutes.

D. Switch to natural hair care products to avoid the harmful effects of chemicals.

E. Perform yoga daily to promote hair growth and reduce stress levels.

F. Nourish your hair with a herbal hair mask.

G. Protect your hair from UV rays and pollution.

H. Balance your dosha levels.

3. Split Ends

Division of hair shafts from the end refers to split ends.

Symptoms

A. Frizzy Hair: Dry and lackluster hair that fuzzes up

B. Hair Breakage: The hair breaks not from the roots but its length.

C. Damaged Hair: Dry, dull, and weak hair that is prone to hair fall

D. Rough Hair: The ends of your hair strands appear rough and damaged.

Causes

A. Dry Hair: Split ends happen when the ends of your hair become brittle, dry, and frayed.

B. Heat Styling: Curling irons and hair straighteners damage your hair by stripping it of its moisture while leaving it dry.

C. Rough Brushing: Over-brushing or rough brushing can weaken your hair

D. Hair Coloring: Hair colors contain chemicals that strip your hair of its natural moisture and cause split ends.

Treatment Options

A. Use Hair-Friendly Accessories: Use rubber bands and headbands that have a soft texture to avoid hair damage.

B. Brush Your Hair Gently: Never brush wet hair and use a wide-toothed brush to detangle your hair.

C. Apply Hair Masks: According to Ayurveda, hair masks nourish the hair naturally and prevent dryness and damage.

D. Protect Your Hair From Heat: Minimize the use of heat styling products and cover your head while stepping out in the sun.

E. Use A Microfiber Towel: Microfiber towels absorb water faster than regular towels and help dry your hair quickly. Never rub your wet hair with a towel.

F. Sleep On A Satin Pillow Cover: Satin creates less or no friction and prevents split ends.

G. Get Regular Trims: Regular trimming helps eliminate split ends and gives your hair a healthy appearance.

4. Frizzy Hair

Frizzy hair stands up or curls individually, creating a fuzzy or uneven texture.

Symptoms

A. Rough Hair: The hair starts to look dry and lackluster.

B. Hair Fall: Extreme hair fall occurs due to a lack of nutrients, and natural oil in the scalp

C. Hair Breakage: The hair becomes weak and starts to break.

Causes

A. Humidity: Excess moisture in the air can trigger frizzy hair.

B. Hair Damage: Damaged hair is generally dry due to excessive use of heat styling tools or overwashing.

C. Genetics: Genetic factors play a significant role in determining your hair texture.

Treatment Options

A. Hair Masks: Hair masks help lock the moisture in your hair, resulting in reduced dryness and frizz.

B. Herbal Shampoo: Avoid using shampoos that contain harmful chemicals as they tend to dry the scalp. Try herbal or mild formulations to treat frizzy hair.

C. Protect Your Hair From Heat: Heat styling tools cause frizzy hair by drying the hair and scalp.

D. Use A Microfiber Towel: Dry your hair using a microfiber towel as they keep hair healthy and reduce frizz. Additionally, sleeping on a satin pillow cover also prevents frizz.

E. Loose Braids: The best way to prevent frizz is by tying your hair in loose hairstyles such as braids and buns.

5. Damaged Hair

Damaged hair develops cracks in the outer layer of the hair (cuticle). It may also look dull and frizzy and may be difficult to manage.

Symptoms

A. Dull And Dry Hair: Hair that breaks easily and feels rough to touch indicates hair damage.

B. Hair Fall: Excessive hair fall during hair washing, combing, and styling.

C. Split Ends: Dry, brittle, and frayed hair ends.

Causes

A. Stress: Stress is one of the primary reasons for the degradation of hair health.

B. Dosha Imbalance: Imbalance in the three doshas can lead to hair damage.

C. Improper Diet: A diet that lacks essential nutrients, vitamins, proteins, and minerals can damage healthy hair and hinder your body's ability to build new hair follicles.

D. Excess Use Of Chemicals: Chemicals present in hair care products can damage the hair by making it dry and dull.

Treatment Options

A. Ayurvedic Therapies: Balance your dosha levels by following Ayurvedic Therapies that include Shirolipa (hair masks), Murdhani Taila (oiling), Snana (hair Wash), Dhumapana (medicated smoke) and Shiro Abhyanga (head Massage).

B. Yoga and Pranayama: They help flush out toxins from your body and reduce stress levels. Also, yoga stimulates blood supply in the scalp that makes hair stronger and shinier.

C. Follow A Healthy Diet: It is necessary to provide nutrients to your hair by including vitamins like A, B, C, K, D, and minerals like zinc.

6. Premature Greying

It is a condition where the hair starts greying at an early age.

Symptoms

A. Greying Of Hair: Hair color changes to grey or white before the age of 20 or 30 years.

Causes

A. Stress: Stress aggravates Pitta dosha and the production of melanocytes.

B. Genetics: It's very common that if your parents or grandparents had grey hair at an early age, you would also develop it because of your genes.

C. Smoking: Cigarettes contain toxins that affect hair follicles and cause grey hair. Smoking also affects the blood supply to the hair follicles by shrinking the blood vessels [4].

D. Decrease In Melanin Production: Melanin is a pigment that determines your hair's natural color [5]. Due to aging and hormonal imbalance, melanin production decreases in the hair follicles, causing grey hair.

E. Imbalance Of Pitta Dosha: According to Ayurveda, the imbalance of Bhrajaka Pitta- a subtype of Pitta dosha, reduces the production of melanin and causes premature greying of hair.

Treatment Options

A. Consume Vitamin B-12: Vitamin B-12 helps balance the production of melanin in the hair follicles.

B. Yoga and Exercise: They help reduce stress and balance dosha levels.

C. Ayurvedic Herbs: Bhringraj, Triphala, Vibhitaka, Henna, and Hibiscus are some herbs that help cure premature greying.

D. Change Your Diet: Add iron, copper, and catalase rich food to your diet by consuming nuts and green leafy vegetables.

7. Hair Breakage

Hair strands have overlapping scales, and when these scales become weak, it causes breakage at any point on the hair strands.

Symptoms

A. Split ends

B. Short hair strands

C. Dry and brittle hair

D. Rough texture

Causes

A. Heat Styling: Heat from styling tools weakens the hair by making it dry.

B. Fragile Hair: Thin or weak hair tends to break more easily.

C. Dryness: Hair that lacks moisture is dry and more prone to breakage.

D. Chemicals: Chemicals used in hair colors, shampoos, and other hair care products can damage the hair and cause breakage.

Treatment Options

A. Condition Your Hair: Apply hair masks using aloe vera [6], hibiscus flowers, honey, yogurt any of the herbs or natural products that condition your hair and provide moisture to it.

B. Regular Trimming: Getting regular trims is a necessity to eliminate split ends and reduce hair breakage.

C. Scalp Massage: Massage your scalp with an essential oil and castor oil to stimulate blood circulation in the roots and provide nourishment to the hair.

8. Greasy Hair

The excessive production of sebum (natural oil) in the scalp makes hair greasy [7].

Symptoms

A. Skin Rashes: Greasy hair attracts dirt that causes irritation on the scalp. It causes rashes and redness on the scalp.

B. Dandruff: Oily dandruff occurs when your hair follicles produce excess sebum.

C. Sticky Hair: Oiliness and stickiness in the hair after shampooing

D. Hair Fall: Accumulation of dust and oil in the scalp, don’t allow your hair follicles to breathe and, thus, leads to hair fall.

Causes

A. Aggravated Kapha Dosha: Ayurveda holds Kapha and Pitta doshas responsible for the overproduction of sebum in the scalp. Individuals dominant with Kapha-Pitta doshas are more prone to greasy hair.

B. Over Conditioning: Excessive use of conditioner on oily hair can worsen the condition by making it more oily.

C. Over Brushing: Brushing stimulates blood circulation in the scalp and boosts oil production in the hair. It makes hair look glossy and smooth, but brushing too much can cause greasy hair.

D. Irregular Shampooing: Not routinely shampooing leads to greasy hair as the accumulated excess oil and dirt sit on the scalp and make it oily.

E. Genetics: Your genes determine your hair type. If an oily scalp runs in your family, there are chances that you would get it too.

Treatment Options

A. Change Your Food Habits: Avoid eating processed and oily food.

B. Shampoo Regularly: Wash your hair twice or thrice a week with a herbal or natural shampoo.

C. Minimize The Use Of Hair Styling Products: Avoid using heavy hair styling products like hair wax and hair creams.

D. Ayurvedic Herbs: You can use herbs like Shikakai, Reetha, Triphala, and Kalonji to wash your hair. Also, you can treat greasy hair by applying a hair mask made from herbs like Kumari, Amla, Ganji, Henna, and Thyme.

9. Dry Hair

Hair that lacks natural oil and moisture is recognized as dry.

Symptoms

A. Dry Flakes: A lack of oil in the scalp causes dry flakes.

B. Split Ends: Split ends generally occur in dry and unhealthy hair.

C. Rough Texture: Your hair loses all its moisture due to external and internal factors.

D. Tangled Hair: It takes a lot of time and effort to detangle your hair.

E. Hair Fall: Hair starts to fall when it lacks essential nutrients and moisture.

Causes

A. Imbalance In Vata-Kapha Doshas: Aggravation in Vata and Kapha dosha affects sebum production in the hair that makes it dry and fragile.

B. Exposure To Heat: UV rays or the heat from styling tools soaks the natural oils from the hair and causes dryness.

C. Lack Of Blood Circulation: Your hair gets its nutrition from the blood that circulates in the scalp. Lack of blood circulation weakens the hair roots and causes brittle hair.

D. Nutritional Deficiencies: A diet that lacks vitamins and minerals required for hair growth, adversely affects the texture and type of the hair, which results in dry and damaged hair.

E. Excessive Hair Wash: Over washing the hair strips the natural oil from the scalp and makes hair dry and frizzy.

F. Use of Hard Water: Hard water soaks up the natural oil from the hair and leaves hair dry and brittle. The compounds present in hard water do not allow the shampoo to work on your hair.

Treatment Options

A. Scalp Massage With Natural Oils: Massage your scalp with natural or herbal oil to nourish your hair. You can use oil from any of these herbs - Vidarikand, Guduchi, Brahmi, Ashwagandha, and Shatavari.

B. Nutrition Rich Diet: Add nuts, fruits, vegetables, and dairy products in your diet to treat dry hair.

C. Hair Masks: Honey, Fenugreek seeds, Yogurt, Banana, and Aloe Vera are some natural ingredients that you can use to make an effective hair mask.

D. Chemical-Free Products: Chemicals present in hair care products dry up the scalp and cause hair damage.

10. Hair Thinning

It's a common problem in both men and women. Excessive loss of hair leads to hair thinning and can cause baldness.

Symptoms

A. Hair Fall: Excessive hair fall is the most common sign of hair thinning.

B. Bald Patches On The Scalp: An individual losses hair in circular and small patches on the scalp

Causes

A. Imbalance Of Pitta Dosha: Ayurveda suggests that individuals dominant in Pitta dosha have thin hair. Imbalance in Pitta can lead to hair thinning and a receding hairline.

B. Heredity: Genetic factors play a crucial role in hair loss and thinning.

C. Medical Conditions: Diseases like thyroid and cancer can cause hair thinning.

D. DHT: Dihydrotestosterone is an androgen that affects the growth of the hair.

E. Tight Hairstyles: Tying hair with a tight rubber band, weakens the hair roots and causes hair fall that leads to hair thinning.

G. Poor Diet: Your hair follicles deteriorate in health when they don't receive essential nutrients and minerals.

H. Stress: Stress imbalances dosha levels and causes hair thinning.

Treatment Options

A. Ayurvedic Therapies: Hair massage with an essential oil and castor oil are highly beneficial to treat hair thinning. Ayurveda says, wash your hair with herbal shampoo as it helps rejuvenate your hair without causing any side effects.

B. Healthy Diet: Eat foods that contain folic acid, biotin, omega-3 fatty acid, iron, zinc, and protein to cure hair thinning.

C. Yoga: Yoga increases blood supply in the hair follicles and reduces stress. It also helps balance dosha levels.

How To Prevent Hair Problems?

What To Do

1. Balance your aggravated dosha levels.

2. Massage your scalp with a natural oil at least twice a week to promote blood circulation in the scalp and provide moisture to the hair.

3. Use a microfiber towel to dry your hair.

4. Sleep on a satin pillowcase to prevent frizzy hair.

5. Use a wide-toothed comb.

6. Use natural or herbal shampoo to wash your hair.

7. Wash your hair twice or thrice a week.

8. Do yoga or exercise regularly.

9. Consume a diet rich in vitamins and minerals.

10. Trim your hair regularly to avoid split ends and dull hair.

11. Apply a hair mask at least twice a week to nourish your hair.

What To Avoid

1. Avoid over-brushing your hair.

2. Reduce the use of hair products that contain harmful chemicals.

3. Don't shampoo your hair daily as it causes dryness.

4. Avoid using hair styling products to fix split ends and frizziness.

5. Don't rub your hair with a towel.

6. Avoid overexposure to the sun.

7. Don't comb wet hair. It leads to hair fall.

8. Don't tie your hair too tight.

9. Don't over condition your hair as it causes product buildup.

10.Avoid coloring, bleaching, curling, and straightening your hair as these procedures weaken the hair.

The Last Word

According to Ayurveda, Vata, Pitta, and Kapha are the vital biological energies of life, and every individual is dominant with either one, two, or all three doshas. These three doshas determine your hair type and texture.

An imbalance in the doshas can lead to several hair problems. With the help of Ayurvedic therapies, you can balance your dosha level. At Vedix, we provide a customized herbal care regimen based on your hair type and dosha level to cure your hair problems.

Know Your Dosha Now