What is the main cause of hair loss?

Genetics, hormones, stress, illness, nutritional deficiencies and scalp conditions can all affect hair growth. The pattern and timing often provide clues.

Can hair thickening shampoo make new hair grow?

Cosmetic thickening shampoos improve fullness or reduce breakage; they do not regrow hair. Hair growth medicines work differently and suit only certain causes of thinning.

Can dandruff cause hair loss?

Dandruff does not usually cause permanent baldness. Scratching and inflammation may contribute to breakage or temporary shedding. Persistent thinning should be assessed separately.

What should I do if hair dye irritates my scalp?

Stop using it and rinse the hair and scalp thoroughly with a mild shampoo. Seek advice if symptoms persist or worsen. Breathing difficulty or throat swelling requires emergency help.

How long do hair loss treatments take to work?

Hair loss treatments often take several months. Minoxidil usually needs continued use to maintain benefits.

Hair Care Products & Treatments Online

What Is Hair Care?

Hair care means looking after your hair and the skin on your head, called the scalp. It includes washing, conditioning and protecting your hair from damage. It also means finding the right treatment when your hair starts thinning or your scalp becomes itchy or sore.

What Causes Hair and Scalp Problems?

Hair loss can run in families.
Stress, illness, childbirth and rapid weight loss can lead to extra shedding.
Thyroid problems and a lack of certain nutrients can affect hair growth.
Hair dyes, shampoos and fragrances can irritate the scalp or cause an allergy.
Fungi and bacteria can cause scalp infections.
Some immune conditions can affect the scalp or hair roots.
Tight hairstyles and frequent heat styling can damage hair.

Some medicines can also cause shedding. Speak to your doctor before stopping any prescribed medicine.

Common Hair and Scalp Problems

Hair loss and thinning can leave a wider part, a receding hairline or bald patches. Causes include inherited hair loss and an immune condition called alopecia areata.
Dandruff causes flakes and may make the scalp itch. Greasy scales and irritated skin can occur with a related condition called seborrheic dermatitis.
Dry hair and breakage can make strands feel rough and snap easily. A dry scalp may feel tight, while an oily scalp can make hair look greasy.
Scalp allergies may cause itching, burning or a rash after using a product. This reaction is sometimes called contact dermatitis.
Scalp eczema and psoriasis can cause itching and irritated patches. Psoriasis often causes thicker areas of scaly skin.
Fungal scalp infections, such as scalp ringworm, can cause scaling, broken hairs and bald patches. Ringworm is caused by a fungus, not a worm.
Scalp folliculitis affects the tiny pockets where hair grows, called hair follicles. These pockets become inflamed and form itchy or sore bumps.
Head lice are tiny insects that live in the hair. They spread mainly through head-to-head contact and are not a sign of dirty hair.

What Signs Should You Look For?

You may see more hair in your brush, a wider part or bald patches. Flakes, itching, burning and sore bumps also need attention. If these changes keep returning, a doctor can check the cause.

Hair Care Products and Treatments

Shampoos, Conditioners and Hair Thickening Products

Shampoo cleans the scalp, while conditioner helps reduce tangles and breakage. Hair thickening products can make hair look fuller, but this is not the same as growing new hair. Choose products that suit your hair and do not irritate your scalp.

Dandruff Treatments

Dandruff shampoos may contain ingredients such as ketoconazole or selenium sulfide. Some contain salicylic acid to loosen flakes. Follow the label, including how long to leave the shampoo on before rinsing.

Hair Loss Medicines

Minoxidil is applied to the scalp and can help some people with pattern hair loss. Finasteride is a prescription tablet used for male pattern hair loss. It is not suitable during pregnancy and can cause side effects, including changes in sexual function or mood.

These medicines do not treat every cause of hair loss. A doctor can help you decide whether they are suitable.

Treatments for Scalp Allergies and Infections

If a product causes irritation, stop using it. A doctor may suggest medicine to calm the skin or reduce itching.

Scalp ringworm usually needs antifungal medicine taken by mouth. Shampoo alone will not cure it. Some bacterial infections need antibiotics. Scalp eczema and psoriasis may need prescribed lotions or other treatments.

Do not use steroid creams on an unexplained scalp rash. They can make a fungal infection worse.

Head Lice Treatments

Wet combing with a fine-toothed comb can remove lice. Suitable lotions or sprays are another option. Follow the instructions and check whether the product is suitable for the person’s age.

Simple Ways to Care for Your Hair

Wash your hair as often as your hair type and scalp need.
Use conditioner to help prevent tangles and breakage.
Keep hairstyles loose enough that they do not pull or hurt.
Use less heat and give your hair breaks from harsh chemical treatments.
Avoid scratching or picking at scalp sores.
Do not share brushes or combs when someone has lice or a scalp infection.
Ask a doctor before using medicated products on children or during pregnancy.

When Should You See a Doctor?

See a doctor if hair falls out suddenly, bald patches appear, or your scalp stays itchy or sore. Some scalp conditions can leave scars and stop hair from growing back, so early treatment matters.

Get prompt medical help for a painful swelling, pus or fever with spreading scalp redness. Call emergency services if a product reaction causes trouble breathing or swelling of the tongue or throat.

Hair Care