Hair loss is a common concern for men, but it’s also surrounded by a lot of misinformation. From old wives’ tales to internet myths, it can be hard to distinguish fact from fiction. Understanding the truth about hair loss is essential to making informed decisions about treatment and prevention. We’ve teamed up with Hims, who provide access to hair loss treatments, to debunk some of the most common myths about hair loss and uncover the facts.
Myth 1: Only Older Men Experience Hair Loss
Fact: Hair loss can happen at any age. While male pattern baldness becomes more common with age, it can start as early as your 20s or even late teens. Genetics and hormone levels, particularly dihydrotestosterone (DHT), play a significant role in determining when hair loss begins. If you notice early signs like thinning at the temples or crown, starting treatment sooner rather than later can make a big difference.
Myth 2: Wearing Hats Causes Hair Loss
Fact: Wearing a hat won’t make your hair fall out. This myth likely stems from the idea that hats restrict blood flow to the scalp, but there’s no scientific evidence to support this claim. Hair loss is primarily caused by genetics, hormonal factors, and sometimes medical conditions, not your choice of headwear.
Myth 3: Washing Your Hair Too Often Leads to Hair Loss
Fact: Frequent shampooing does not cause hair loss. However, harsh shampoos or overusing styling products can damage hair and make it brittle. If you notice more hair in the drain after washing, it’s likely just natural shedding. On average, people lose 50-100 hairs per day, which is completely normal. For optimal scalp health, use a gentle shampoo like Hims’ thickening shampoo, which contains DHT-fighting ingredients such as saw palmetto.
Myth 4: Stress Causes Permanent Hair Loss
Fact: While severe stress can lead to temporary hair shedding, known as telogen effluvium, this type of hair loss is usually reversible. Once the stressor is removed, hair typically regrows within a few months. Chronic stress, however, can exacerbate existing hair loss conditions like male pattern baldness, so managing stress through practices like yoga, meditation, or exercise is still important.
Myth 5: Baldness Is Inherited Solely from Your Mother’s Side
Fact: It’s true that the gene for male pattern baldness is carried on the X chromosome, which men inherit from their mothers. However, hair loss isn’t solely dictated by maternal genetics. Other genes, including those inherited from your father’s side, also play a role. Hair loss is a complex condition influenced by multiple genetic and environmental factors.
Myth 6: Hair Loss Treatments Don’t Work
Fact: There are effective, doctor-approved treatments for hair loss. Medications like finasteride and minoxidil have been proven to slow hair loss and promote regrowth. For example, Hims offers access to a topical spray that combines both ingredients, providing a powerful solution to combat hair loss. Early intervention and consistent use of these treatments are key to seeing results.
Separating Fact from Fiction
Believing in hair loss myths can prevent you from seeking effective solutions. By understanding the facts, you can take control of your hair health and explore proven treatments like those Hims offers access to. Whether it’s early thinning or more advanced hair loss, knowledge is your best tool for addressing the issue confidently. Check out Hims and take a hair loss assessment today.
Hair Hybrids are compounded treatments and have not been approved by the FDA. The FDA does not verify the safety,effectiveness, or quality of compounded drugs. Prescription products require an online consultation with a healthcare provider who will determine if a prescription is appropriate. Restrictions apply. See website for full details and important safety information.
