A receding hairline is an almost inevitable part of ageing, especially for men. It can start to develop at any age, from as early as teen years, and can eventually lead to baldness.
Hairs grow from follicles beneath the skin’s surface on the scalp. When these fall out, they are replaced by new hairs. But if these follicles become damaged, the growth cycle is impaired which may result in a receding hairline. The causes of a receding hairline vary, but common causes are genetics, a medical condition such as alopecia, and hormone changes.
While a receding hairline is completely normal, many find a loss of hair distressing and look for ways to promote hair growth, particularly if it is experienced from a very young age.
We’re here to lend a helping hand and offer some advice on how to encourage hair growth and delay the progression of an early receding hairline.
1. Take a vitamin supplement
Biotin is required by the body to form keratin, an essential structural protein in hair. Research suggests that biotin supplements, like New Leaf’s biotin tablets, can help improve hair volume and scalp coverage in people who experience hair thinning. Scientists have also found a link between biotin deficiency and hair loss, which further reinforces the necessity of biotin for thick, healthy hair.
2. Apply essential oils
Adding a few drops of essential oils to your shampoo or a carrier oil, such as coconut, may help stimulate hair growth. According to one study, lavender, chamomile, thyme, and peppermint oil helped improve hair growth in patients with alopecia who experienced hair loss.
3. Try topical ointments
There are a number of topical ointments on the market that may benefit people who experience hair loss. For example, topical melatonin can help promote hair growth and reduce hair thinning, along with other ointments such as topical minoxidil and prescription finasteride. Seek medical advice from your doctor who can advise the best treatment for you.
4. Get plenty of protein
Protein is an essential nutrient that provides the building blocks for hair, helping it grow and protecting it from environmental and chemical damage. If you experience hair loss or a receding hair line, make sure to pack in the protein in your diet and eat plenty of foods like fish, meat, dairy and nuts. You can also purchase topical protein treatments to further nourish your hair and encourage growth.
5. Use caffeinated products
Male baldness is sometimes caused by hair follicle damage from the sex hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT). According to research, hair products that contain caffeine can help stimulate hair growth and prevent hair loss by blocking the effects of DHT.
6. Avoid dyes and heat
Hair dyes use harsh chemicals which remove natural fatty acids that make up hair, resulting in hair damage and breakage. Similarly, styling tools that use intense heat like straighteners or curling irons can also put stress on the hair and cause damage and breakage. If you are trying to encourage hair growth, it might be a good idea to avoid dying your hair and using heated styling tools.