From the Guidelines
Hair breakage in a 36-year-old with normal blood tests is most likely due to physical or environmental damage, and addressing these factors is crucial to prevent further breakage and promote healthy hair growth. The most common causes of hair breakage include heat styling (blow dryers, straighteners, curling irons), chemical treatments (coloring, perming, relaxing), mechanical damage (tight hairstyles, rough brushing), and environmental factors (sun exposure, chlorine, hard water) 1.
To address hair breakage, several steps can be taken:
- Reduce heat styling and use heat protectant products when necessary
- Limit chemical treatments and space them further apart
- Switch to a gentle sulfate-free shampoo and use a moisturizing conditioner
- Consider a weekly deep conditioning treatment with ingredients like keratin, argan oil, or shea butter
- Use a wide-tooth comb on wet hair and avoid tight hairstyles
- Trim ends every 8-12 weeks to prevent split ends from traveling up the hair shaft
- Protect hair from sun and chlorine with hats or swim caps
While vitamin D and iron deficiencies have been linked to hair loss, the current evidence does not strongly support a direct link between these deficiencies and hair breakage in individuals with normal blood tests 1. However, ensuring adequate protein, iron, zinc, and vitamins in the diet is essential for healthy hair growth from within. Supplementing with biotin (2.5-5mg daily) may help strengthen hair, though results take 3-6 months 1.
It is essential to note that hair breakage occurs when the hair's protein structure (keratin) becomes damaged, making strands weak and prone to breaking. By addressing the physical and environmental causes of hair breakage and maintaining a balanced diet, individuals can promote healthy hair growth and reduce the risk of further breakage.
From the Research
Possible Causes of Hair Breakage
- Hair breakage can be caused by various factors, including nutritional deficiencies, hair care practices, and underlying medical conditions 2
- Although the user has normal blood tests, it is still possible that they may be experiencing hair breakage due to other factors such as excessive heat styling, harsh chemical treatments, or mechanical stress on the hair
Role of Nutrients in Hair Health
- Micronutrients such as vitamins and minerals play an important role in maintaining healthy hair follicles and preventing hair loss 2
- Deficiencies in nutrients like vitamin D, iron, and zinc may contribute to hair breakage and loss 2
- However, there is limited evidence to suggest that nutritional supplements can completely prevent or reverse hair breakage in individuals with normal blood tests
Treatment Options for Hair Breakage
- Topical minoxidil has been shown to be effective in promoting hair growth and reducing hair breakage in individuals with androgenetic alopecia 3, 4
- Oral minoxidil has also been proposed as a safe and effective alternative to topical minoxidil for treating hair loss 5
- Other treatment options, such as nutritional supplements and hair care products, may also be beneficial in reducing hair breakage and promoting healthy hair growth 6