Finding a few more hairs than usual on your pillow, comb or bathroom floor can be worrying. Hair fall is one of the most searched hair concerns in India, and the good news is that many causes are temporary and linked to habits you can change. This guide shares practical hair fall control tips, explains common causes in plain words, shows how to oil your hair the right way with a Siddha hair oil, and tells you when it is time to see a doctor.
How much hair fall is normal?
Hair grows in cycles. Every day, some hairs naturally finish their cycle and fall out to make room for new ones. Losing around 50 to 100 hairs a day is commonly described as normal. You tend to notice more on hair-wash days because loose hairs collect and come out together.
It is worth paying closer attention if you see a sudden increase, a widening parting, a thinner ponytail, a receding hairline or round bald patches.
Common reasons for hair fall
- Stress and illness: a fever, major illness, surgery or a very stressful period can trigger increased shedding a few weeks or months later.
- Diet gaps: crash dieting or low intake of protein, iron and other nutrients can affect hair.
- Hormonal changes: after childbirth, around menopause, or with thyroid problems or PCOS.
- Genetics: pattern hair thinning often runs in families.
- Rough handling: tight hairstyles, harsh brushing, frequent heat styling and chemical processes like rebonding or bleaching can weaken hair.
- Scalp problems: dandruff, itching and constant scratching can lead to breakage.
- Medicines: some medicines can cause hair fall as a side effect. Never stop a prescribed medicine on your own; speak to your doctor.
Practical hair fall control tips
1. Eat for your hair
Include a source of protein in every meal, such as dal, paneer, curd, eggs, sprouts, fish or chicken. Add green leafy vegetables, seasonal fruits, nuts and seeds. Avoid crash diets. If you suspect a deficiency, ask your doctor about a blood test rather than starting supplements on your own.
2. Handle wet hair gently
Hair is weakest when wet. Press water out with a soft towel instead of rubbing, and use a wide-tooth comb starting from the ends and working up to the roots.
3. Loosen your hairstyle
Tight buns, ponytails and braids pull on the roots. Switch to looser styles and use soft scrunchies rather than tight rubber bands.
4. Go easy on heat and chemicals
Limit straighteners, curling irons, bleaching, rebonding and frequent colouring. If you use a hair dryer, keep it on a cool or warm setting.
5. Keep your scalp clean and calm
A healthy scalp supports healthy hair. Wash regularly with a mild shampoo and lukewarm water, and look after dandruff or itching early.
6. Sleep and stress
Aim for regular sleep and build in some daily stress relief, like a walk, yoga, breathing exercises or time with family. A cotton or satin pillow cover can also reduce friction on hair.
How to oil your hair the right way
Hair oiling is a familiar ritual in Indian homes, and Siddha medicine has a long tradition of herbal hair oils. Dr. Stanley's Hairuby Hair Growth TETO oil is a Siddha hair care formula that comes from generations-old traditional Siddha wisdom recorded in palm leaf manuscripts. Whichever oil you use, the way you apply it matters.
A simple oiling routine
- Patch-test first. Apply a little oil behind the ear or on a small area of the scalp and wait at least 24 hours to check for redness or itching.
- Part your hair into sections. This helps the oil reach the scalp, where it is most useful.
- Use your fingertips. Apply a small amount along each parting. A little goes a long way.
- Be gentle. Use light, slow circular movements with your fingertips. Avoid vigorous rubbing or pulling, which can cause more hair to break or fall.
- Give it time. Leave the oil on for the time recommended on the product label. If you leave oil on overnight, cover your pillow with an old pillowcase.
- Wash gently. Use a mild shampoo and lukewarm water, and rinse well so oil does not build up.
- Stay consistent. Hair grows slowly, so it is best to follow your routine regularly for several weeks before judging any change.
Each person's hair and scalp are different, and results vary. Always follow the usage directions on the product label and stop using anything that irritates your scalp.
When to see a doctor
Hair fall can sometimes be a sign of something that needs medical attention. Please consult a qualified doctor or dermatologist if:
- You notice sudden, heavy hair fall or hair coming out in clumps.
- You see round bald patches, a fast-receding hairline or a much wider parting.
- Hair fall comes with tiredness, weight changes, irregular periods or other body changes.
- Your scalp is red, painful, scaly or has pus-filled bumps.
- Hair fall continues for more than a few months despite good care.
- Hair fall started after a new medicine.
Frequently asked questions
Does oiling stop hair fall?
Oiling is not a magic switch. It can help keep the scalp and hair moisturised and reduce dryness and breakage when done gently. Hair fall linked to hormones, illness, genetics or diet needs those root causes to be looked at too, ideally with a doctor.
How often should I oil my hair?
Many people oil two to three times a week, while others prefer a daily light application. Follow the directions on your product label, and wash regularly so oil does not build up.
Is hair fall after delivery normal?
Many new mothers notice extra shedding a few months after childbirth. It often settles over time, but check with your doctor, especially if you also feel very tired or weak.
Can dandruff increase hair fall?
Dandruff and constant scratching can irritate the scalp and lead to hair breakage. Keeping the scalp clean and calm is an important part of any hair fall routine.
How long before I notice a difference?
Hair grows slowly, so most hair care routines need several weeks of consistent use before you can judge them. Results vary from person to person.
Important: This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Please consult a qualified doctor or dermatologist about hair fall, always patch-test a new product before regular use, and stop use if you notice irritation.
