Hair loss is a common problem that affects both men and women. Although genetics plays a significant role in hair loss, there are several other factors that can contribute to this condition. One such factor is exposure to airborne substances.

In fact, several environmental pollutants, chemicals, and other factors in the air can cause hair damage and eventually lead to hair loss.

Airborne factors that cause hair loss

1. Air Pollution

Air pollution is a silent killer that impacts not only the environment but also human health. It is a well-known fact that air pollution is linked to respiratory problems, skin allergies, and cardiovascular diseases.

However, recent studies suggest that exposure to air pollution can also lead to hair loss.

Hair follicles are sensitive to environmental factors, and pollutants in the air can cause oxidative stress and inflammation that damage hair follicles and lead to hair loss.

Exposure to particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, and other pollutants have been shown to increase the prevalence of alopecia or hair loss in both men and women.

2. UV Radiation

The sun emits harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation that can damage hair strands and cause hair loss. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can cause the hair cuticle to become thin, which makes it more susceptible to breakage.

It can also damage the scalp, leading to dryness, irritation, and even skin cancer.

3. Chlorine

Chlorine is a common chemical used to treat swimming pools and water sources. Although it is useful in killing bacteria and keeping the water clean, it can also cause damage to the hair.

Exposure to chlorine can cause dryness, breakage, and discoloration of the hair. It can also lead to a condition known as swimmer’s hair, where hair strands become brittle and weak.

4. Hard Water

Hard water is water that contains high levels of minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and iron. Although it is generally safe for consumption, it can cause damage to the hair.

Hard water can make the hair dry, frizzy, and brittle, leading to breakage and hair loss. In addition, hard water can also cause dandruff, scalp irritation, and other scalp conditions that contribute to hair loss.

5. Chemicals

Hair products such as shampoos, conditioners, and styling products contain chemicals that can cause damage to the hair. Overuse of these products, especially those that contain parabens, sulfates, and formaldehyde, can lead to hair loss.

These chemicals can damage the hair shaft, causing it to become weak and brittle, making it more prone to breakage.

6. Smoking

Smoking is not only harmful to the lungs but also to the hair. Smoking can constrict blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the scalp, and the hair follicles. Lack of blood flow to the hair follicles can cause them to shrink, leading to hair loss.

Smoking also causes oxidative stress, which can damage the hair and prevent it from growing.

How to protect your hair from airborne factors

Although exposure to airborne factors such as air pollution, UV radiation, chlorine, hard water, chemicals, and smoking can cause hair loss, there are several ways to protect your hair against these factors.

1. Wash your hair regularly

Washing your hair regularly with a mild shampoo can help to remove pollutants, chemicals, and other substances that accumulate on the scalp and hair. It keeps hair clean and healthy, reducing the risk of hair loss caused by external factors.

2. Use a conditioner

Conditioners are useful in protecting the hair from damage caused by pollutants and chemicals. They help to moisturize the hair, reduce frizz, and prevent hair breakage and hair loss.

A good conditioner seals the hair cuticle, making it less vulnerable to external factors.

3. Wear a hat or use a scarf

Wearing a hat or a scarf can help to protect the hair from UV radiation, pollution, and other airborne substances. It creates a physical barrier that prevents these substances from reaching the hair and causing damage.

It also prevents the hair from drying out in the sun.

4. Filter your shower water

Filtering your shower water can help to remove minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and iron that cause hard water. It reduces the risk of hair damage caused by hard water, making hair more manageable and less prone to breakage and hair loss.

5. Quit smoking

Quitting smoking can help to promote overall health as well as hair health. It improves blood flow to the scalp and hair follicles, reducing the risk of hair loss caused by smoking. It also reduces oxidative stress, preventing further damage to the hair.

Conclusion

Hair loss is a common problem that affects millions of people around the world.

Although genetics plays a significant role in hair loss, exposure to airborne factors such as air pollution, UV radiation, chlorine, hard water, chemicals, and smoking can also contribute to this condition. Protecting the hair from these external factors by washing regularly, conditioning, wearing a hat, filtering shower water, and quitting smoking can help to promote hair health and prevent hair loss.