Summer heat threat to hair health: dermatologists

TDT | Manama    

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Report by Zahra Ayaz

Dryness and damage to hair follicles due to excessive sweating, along with frequent washing of the hair in hot water, could be the cause of extreme hair fall during the summer, prominent dermatologists say.

Profuse sweating can disrupt the natural oils on the scalp, leading to dryness and potential damage to hair follicles, explains Dr. Mukesh Batra, a distinguished dermatologist and hair transplant surgeon at Middle East Hospital.

Highlighting the various contributory factors, Dr. Batra said, "Hair loss during the summer can be attributed to a combination of factors, including seasonal shedding, sun exposure, heat and sweating, dehydration, swimming, hair-care practices, stress, and allergies."

Simple Solutions

Dr. Anitta Sara Thampi, a dermatologist at Bahrain Specialist Hospital, advises that hot water should not be used for washing hair and suggests opting for lukewarm or cool water instead. Meanwhile, Dr. Batra emphasised the importance of gentle hair-care practices.

He advises individuals to avoid tight hairstyles and to limit the use ofheat stylingg tools. To protect the hair from the sun’s harmful rays, wearing a hat or using products with UV protection is recommended, he added.

In addition to these, maintaining proper hydration by drinking sufficient water and consuming a nutritious diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and protein is essential for promoting healthy hair growth, points out Dr. Batra

Seeking medical advice

If the problem of excessive hair fall is not resolved despite adopting the best care practices, it would be good to look at other health factors, the doctors said.

A comprehensive evaluation is required to identify the underlying factors contributing to the hair loss, says Dr. Anitta. "To tackle summer hair loss, it is crucial to undergo a thorough evaluation, including blood tests, to exclude potential underlying causes," she told The Daily Tribune. Only then can an appropriate course of treatment be decided, she noted.

As the summer months continue, it is vital for individuals to adopt appropriate hair care practices and seek professional advice from