Hair, a keratin-based feature, significantly impacts our self-esteem and culture. It serves as a canvas for self-expression and confidence for both men and women. The condition and style of hair contribute to fostering self-esteem and promoting a positive self-image. Both men and women find empowerment in their hair, transforming their self-perception and symbolising their unique identity. Individuals harness the power of their hair through personal style choices, cultural affiliations, and hair restoration to build self-esteem and embrace their individuality. The relationship between hair and self-esteem is crucial and cannot be overlooked.

Reasons for hair loss when the hair is wet

Consult a dermatologist or hair care specialist for advice and tailored recommendations if you experience excessive hair loss or other unsettling changes. Wet hair causes structural and molecular changes, impacting appearance, texture, and overall health. Some main reasons include:

• Absorption of water: Hair absorbs water like a sponge, attracting water molecules to its keratin protein, and causing the shaft to swell.
• Hydrogen bond disruption: Hydrogen bonds hold hair protein structure; water disrupts these bonds, temporarily altering hair shape and making it more malleable.
• Cuticle lifting: The cuticle, the outermost layer of hair, has overlapping scales in dry hair, but when wet, it lifts and exposes the inner layers.
• Increased elasticity: Hair’s elasticity increases due to hydrogen bond disruption and swelling, enabling it to stretch without breaking, making it easier to manipulate and try.
• Weakening of keratin bonds: Keratin protein in hair is held together by disulfide bonds, which can weaken in water, increasing damage susceptibility.
• Loss of natural oils: Water can remove sebum, causing hair and scalp dryness and frizz.
• Increased vulnerability: Wet hair is more fragile and prone to damage, making it more susceptible to breakage and rough handling.
• Altered appearance: Wet hair may appear darker and clump, creating the illusion of hair loss.
• Swelling of hair fibres: Water contact causes hair shaft swelling, increasing fragility and breakage risk due to increased shaft expansion.
• Hair breakage: Wet hair breakage can occur due to swelling, weakened bonds, increased elasticity, and lifted cuticles.
• Mechanical damage: Wet hair is fragile and susceptible to breakage, with rough towel-drying, vigorous combing, and tight accessories causing shaft weakening, causing hair loss.
• Traction alopecia: Tight hairstyles like braids, buns, or ponytails can cause stress on hair follicles, causing traction alopecia.
• Heat styling: Hot tools on wet hair can cause shaft damage, breakage, and hair loss over time.

• Chemical treatments: Chemical treatments on wet hair can cause damage and breakage.
• Lack of proper care: Insufficient hair care products or inadequate conditioning can cause dryness, brittleness, and breakage.
• Underlying health conditions: Medical conditions like hormonal imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, and scalp conditions can cause hair loss, especially when wet, causing noticeable changes.
• Medications: Medication side effects can cause hair loss; consult a healthcare provider if wet hair loss occurs.
• Telogen effluvium: Temporary hair loss caused by stress, illness, surgery, childbirth, or rapid weight loss, more noticeable when wet.
• Genetics: Genetic factors significantly impact hair loss, with a family history of pattern baldness causing increased wetness.
• Rubbing and aggressive drying: Rub wet hair vigorously, avoid friction and breakage; use gentle patting or a microfiber towel for water absorption.
• Brushing or combing: Wet hair is fragile and prone to breakage. Avoid touching or searching it with force, starting from the ends and gradually working up to the roots.
• Tight hairstyles: Tight hairstyles like ponytails, braids, or buns can cause stress on hair shafts and breakage. Avoid using air-drying or gentle hair ties.

Handling wet hair gently and avoiding aggressive combing, brushing, or styling can prevent breakage and damage. Using a wide-toothed comb for detangling brush, allowing hair to air dry partially before styling, and applying heat can minimise adverse effects. Avoid tight hairstyles and excessive manipulation until the hair is dry. Using a wide-toothed comb for detangling brush and allowing hair to air dry partially before styling can also help reduce the risk of damage and breakage.

Precautions followed to control hair loss when wet

To minimise hair loss during wet hair, follow a gentle and careful hair care routine, including precautions and tips, to prevent damage and maintain healthy hair.

• Be gentle during hair wash:
  • Use a mild shampoo and conditioner that are suitable for your hair type.
  • Gently massage your scalp with your fingertips to cleanse it without causing unnecessary friction.
  • Avoid using hot water, as it can strip your hair of natural oils and contribute to dryness and breakage.

• Proper drying:
  • Gently pat your hair dry with a soft, absorbent towel to remove excess moisture.
  • Avoid rough rubbing because it can cause hair to break.
  • Before using heat-styling tools, let your hair partially air dry.
  • On damp hair, too much heat might harm the hair.
• Combing or brushing: 
  • Use a wide-toothed comb or a detangling brush to gently detangle wet hair, starting from the tips and working your way up to the roots.
  • Avoid using fine-toothed combs or brushes with sharp bristles, which can cause breakage and damage.
• Avoid tight hairstyles:
  • Refrain from pulling wet hair into tight hairstyles like ponytails, braids, or buns, which can stress the hair shaft and follicles.
• Protective hairstyles:
  • Opt for loose, protective hairstyles that minimise tension and stress on wet hair.
• Use hair-friendly accessories:
  • Choose hair ties, scrunchies, and other accessories that are gentle on the hair and won’t cause breakage.
• Proper hair care products:
  • Use hair care products specifically formulated for your hair type and concerns.
• Avoid excessive manipulation:
  • Minimise excessive touching, combing, or styling of wet hair to reduce stress on the hair shaft.
• Nutrition and hydration: 
  • Maintain a balanced and nutritious diet of vitamins and minerals essential for hair health.
  • Stay hydrated, as proper hydration supports overall hair health.
• Manage stress:
  • Practice stress management techniques, as excessive stress can contribute to hair loss.
• Regular hair care: 
  • Establish a consistent hair care routine, including proper washing, conditioning, and occasional deep conditioning treatments.
• Consult a professional:
  • If you notice excessive hair loss or other concerning changes, consult a dermatologist or hair care professional for guidance and personalised recommendations.

Hair shedding is expected during the hair growth cycle, but distinguishing between average and excessive hair loss is crucial. Seek professional advice for sudden and significant hair loss to identify underlying causes and receive appropriate treatment.

At HairSure, we are dedicated to a policy of offering patients unmatched services. At HairSure Advanced Hair Transplant Clinic, all of your hair-related worries can be expertly resolved, and you can rest assured that your smiles won’t flinch again. Enter HairSure and exit with the desired appearance.

HairSure can assist in determining the precise reason for hair loss and offer suitable treatment solutions that are suited to the requirements of the individual. Always consult a medical expert when you have questions about your health. Always consult a medical expert when you have questions about your health.

We at HairSure, are committed to providing matchless services to all our patients. All your concerns regarding hair problems can be flawlessly sorted at HairSure Advanced Hair Transplant Clinic, guaranteeing that you will be left with smiles that won’t fall again. Walk into HairSure and walk back with the look that you desire. Call 040 42020202 / 9494020202 or email us at hairsure123@gmail.com to book your consultation. Visit our website, Hair Transplant Clinic, to know more.