9 Natural Remedies That Actually Prevent Hair Loss

Clusters of hair on the bathroom floor, running your fingers through your hair and coming away with several loose strands, or noticing thinner locks where there used to be volume — regardless of how it manifests, signs of hair loss can be very distressing. Many factors can cause hair loss, from rapid weight loss to childbirth, and millions of dollars are spent each year to promote hair regrowth. While medications and surgery are viable options, natural treatments can also help reverse hair loss and restore our crowning glory.

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Coconut Oil

Research has shown that coconut oil can reduce hair’s protein loss, helping prevent hair loss. Before washing, smooth raw coconut oil over dry hair and comb it through. Let it absorb for 30 minutes or even overnight before shampooing and conditioning.

Scalp Massage

Massaging the scalp boosts blood flow, which can lead to thicker hair. Using a scalp massager or your fingers, gently massage your scalp for five to 10 minutes daily to enhance circulation and encourage hair growth. Go slow and easy to avoid breakage.

Onion Juice

Sulfur, a naturally occurring ingredient in onions, has an anti-inflammatory and hydrating effect that helps strengthen hair and promote growth. Puree one to three onions, apply the juice to your scalp, massage it in, and let it sit for an hour before rinsing.

Red Ginseng

Red ginseng, widely used in traditional East Asian medicine, has improved hair growth in mice during clinical studies. This supplement can be ingested as a liquid, powder, capsule, or boiled to make tea. Be sure to read the directions carefully before using.

Rice Water

Rice water has been an Asian beauty staple for centuries. The amino acids and vitamins in rice water can help increase elasticity and strengthen the hair shaft, reducing loss and breakage. To make your own rice water, rinse half a cup of uncooked rice before soaking it in water for 30 minutes. Strain the water into a new container and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. To use the rice water, towel dry your hair after washing and saturate it with rice water. Let it absorb for 20 to 30 minutes before rinsing.

Rosemary Oil

A 2015 study shows that rosemary oil is as effective for hair loss as minoxidil, a popular hair loss medication. Rosemary oil on its own can irritate the skin, so make sure to dilute it with a carrier oil (an oil like olive oil that dilutes essential oil) when creating your mixture. Massage up to five drops of the mixture into your scalp for 10 minutes daily before rinsing. 

Caffeine

Caffeine has been found to stimulate hair follicles, resulting in increased hair count and stronger hair. Many hair growth shampoos and conditioners already contain this ingredient to help lessen hair fall and encourage growth. You can also make your own hair spray by pouring cold coffee into a spray bottle and applying it liberally to your hair and scalp. Rinse after five minutes.

Peppermint and Eucalyptus Oils

Peppermint and eucalyptus are vasodilators, increasing the size of blood vessels and the amount of blood traveling to the scalp. This has been shown to increase the growth of hair in mice, which is promising for humans who suffer from hair loss. Like rosemary oil, dilute both with a carrier oil to avoid skin irritation or burns.

Melatonin

The popular sleep aid supplement may benefit both skin and hair when applied topically. Melatonin has been shown to reduce oxidative stress in hair follicles and extend the hair growth stage. It is available in over-the-counter creams and serums, but since it is a hormone, it is important to discuss this option with your doctor before use.

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