Why do I experience severe hair loss every time I wash my hair?

Nov 08, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
Hair loss during every shampoo session may be caused by natural hair shedding, improper shampooing techniques, malnutrition, seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp, psoriasis, and other factors. Individuals experiencing severe hair loss should try to avoid hair dyeing and perming, and reduce chemical irritation to the scalp. Maintain good sleep habits and engage in appropriate outdoor activities to help alleviate stress.

Significant hair loss during every shampoo session may be caused by natural hair shedding, improper shampooing techniques, malnutrition, seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp, psoriasis, and other factors. If abnormalities are observed, it is recommended to seek timely medical consultation to identify the underlying cause and receive targeted treatment. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Natural hair shedding: Hair has a natural growth cycle, including the anagen (growth) phase, catagen (transition) phase, and telogen (resting) phase. During the telogen phase, hair naturally falls out to make space for new hair growth. Hair loss in this context is typically a normal physiological process and generally not a cause for concern.

2. Improper shampooing techniques: Using excessively hot water, scratching the scalp with fingernails, vigorously rubbing or pulling the hair during shampooing can all cause physical damage to the hair, leading to hair loss or breakage. It is recommended to use lukewarm water for washing hair and gently massage the scalp with the fingertips, avoiding excessive scratching.

3. Nutritional deficiency: Insufficient intake of nutrients such as protein and vitamins in the daily diet may lead to inadequate blood and qi (vital energy), affecting blood supply to the scalp, causing hair follicle atrophy and dryness, which can result in hair loss. It is recommended to maintain a balanced diet and consume more foods rich in proteins and vitamins.

4. Seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp: This may be related to genetic factors, mental stress, irregular作息 (作息 should be translated as "lifestyle habits" or "作息 patterns"), and other factors. It can cause increased levels of androgens in the body, leading to hair loss and symptoms such as oily scalp, itching, and dandruff. Treatment options include topical medications such as tacrolimus ointment, pimecrolimus cream, and oral itraconazole capsules, under a physician's guidance.

5. Psoriasis: The pathogenesis of psoriasis is associated with abnormal activation of the immune system, which can cause inflammation, itching, and flaking on the scalp, affecting hair health and resulting in hair loss. It is recommended to seek timely medical care and use medications such as methotrexate tablets, acitretin capsules, and calcipotriol ointment under a physician's supervision.

Individuals experiencing severe hair loss should avoid hair dyeing and perming as much as possible to reduce chemical irritation to the scalp. Maintaining good sleep habits and engaging in moderate outdoor exercise can help alleviate stress.