The cause of hair loss starts with the hair follicle. For a hair follicle to function properly and produce a lot of hair, the follicular cells must get enough oxygen, nutrients and minerals. These substances are necessary for a thick head of shiny and healthy hair.

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However, smoking causes poor circulation in the body and this reduces the blood flow to the hair follicles. Smoking may also disrupt or damage the circulation system and this would seriously affect the blood flow to the hair follicle, resulting in hair loss.

Not only does smoking directly affect the health of the hair follicles, but it also retards the proper functioning of the body which may indirectly weaken the hair. We all know that smoking causes illnesses and diseases because the body is exposed to all sorts of poisons, bacteria and other harmful substances. These harmful substances circulate freely throughout the body and in turn inhibit the hair follicle’s ability to maintain the normal hair growth pattern resulting in hair loss. Smoking also accelerates the aging process and hair loss is a symptom of aging.

The best way of avoiding hair loss caused by smoking is to stop lighting up. It is hard to quit because the habit is very addictive so if you are having trouble quitting, then consult your doctor and discuss ways to kick the habit. There are a number of medications on the market to help you quit. You can try patches, gums and creams to help beat the addiction.

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Once you have quit smoking, you can concentrate on fighting the hair loss battle by taking up cardiovascular exercise. Cardiovascular exercise, which includes brisk walking and jogging helps to increase the heart rate, which then boosts the blood circulation. Try exercising for at least 30 minutes five times a week in order to increase blood circulation which will help you maintain a thick head of shiny hair.

A thick head of hair is usually a sign of good health. But hair today is affected by a number of factors such as the environment, pollution, harmful chemicals, improper diet, stress, harmful UV rays and lack of sleep. Take proper care of your hair today with these great tips.

People with long hair need to take extra care of their crowning glory. Particles of dust and dirt can stick to the hair and scalp and proper methods of cleaning need to be adopted. It is important to note that nobody has the same type of hair and it varies with straight, curly, wavy, silky or coarse. Whatever the hair type, most people suffer from hair problems such as dandruff and premature grey hair.

However there are tips you can use to take care of your hair. Having a balanced and nutritious diet is important to maintaining healthy hair. And if you have a tendency to use chemicals on your hair for colouring, straightening or perming, then you need to use advanced care techniques.

Always wash hair with a good shampoo that works best for your hair type. For example, if you have dry hair, then use a shampoo that made specifically for dry hair. Dry wet hair using a towel and not a hair dryer. When drying hair, you should not rub hair hard with a towel because it damages the texture. For hair that is dry and unmanageable, always use a good conditioner and a hair serum. When you wash it out, always make sure there are no traces of shampoo or conditioner left on the scalp.

Never brush hair when it is wet because wet hair is weak. Use a fine tooth comb to untangle wet hair and brush it when it is dry. Also if you have a tendency to tie your hair tightly, take heed that it weakens the hair. Women who have to travel a lot and are exposed to the sun and wind can wear scarves to protect the hair as excessive exposure to the elements can make hair dull and brittle. Another tip to remember is to trim hair once a month otherwise there will be split ends. Trimming hair gives a neat look and helps hair grow better.

As for the guys, if you style your hair on a daily basis with gel and mousse, in the long term it will affect the hair quality. Hair gel should only be used on an occasional basis and should be washed out when you get home.

For those experiencing hair problems such as excessive hair fall, then you should see a dermatologist who will find out the cause of the hair fall and will help cure it.