Tips for Avoiding Hair Damage | How RU58841 Can Help

Taking care of your hair isn't just about looking good, it's about keeping your hair healthy and strong. How you style and look after your hair can have a big impact on its health. If we don't take care of our hair, it can become prone to breakage, split ends, and dryness which lead to a dull and lifeless appearance. Neglected hair may also contribute to scalp issues like dandruff and itching. Over time, this lack of care can result in thinning and hair loss. 

Unmanaged hair is more challenging to style, and it may become more sensitive to environmental factors. In this blog post, we'll talk about some easy tips to help you avoid damaging your hair and keep it in great shape. 

Our Hair Structure

For many individuals, hair is a natural aspect of their appearance and a reflection of their personality. Hair also serves a protective function; for example, it shields the scalp from the sun's rays. Eyelashes and eyebrows prevent dust, dirt, and sweat from entering our eyes. Even the hairs in our nose and ears help ward off germs and foreign objects. Body hair aids in regulating body temperature by standing up when it's cold, trapping warmed air close to the body like an insulating layer.

Diverse Hair Types

Except for certain areas, like the palms of our hands or the soles of our feet, our entire body surface has hair. There are two primary types of hair: shorter and finer "vellus" hairs (peach fuzz) covering the body and longer, thicker "terminal" hairs. Terminal hairs include head hair, facial hair, eyelashes, eyebrows, pubic hair, chest hair, and belly hair.

The distribution of each hair type varies from person to person and depends on age and gender. Children typically have more vellus hair, for instance. About 30 percent of a woman's body surface is covered with terminal hair, compared to approximately 90 percent in men.

Each hair comprises a hair shaft and a hair root. The shaft is the visible part protruding from the skin, while the root is within the skin, extending into deeper layers. It is enclosed by the hair follicle, a sheath of skin and connective tissue, connected to a sebaceous gland.

Each hair follicle is linked to a small muscle (arrector pili) that can raise the hair. Many nerves terminate at the hair follicle, sensing hair movement and responding to even the slightest breeze.

At the hair's base, the root widens into a round hair bulb. The hair papilla, supplying blood to the hair root, is situated inside the bottom of the hair bulb. Near the papilla, new hair cells are continually generated in the hair bulb.

How Hair Grows

In the hair bulb, new cells continually form, sticking together and hardening to create the full hair strand. Ongoing attachment of new hardened cells from below pushes the hair up through the skin. A single head hair grows approximately 1 cm per month, while facial hair, eyelashes, eyebrows, and body hair grow at a slower pace.

The straight or curly nature of hair depends on its cross-sectional shape. Round hair grows straight, while more oval-shaped hair tends to be curlier.

Hair color is determined by melanin in the hardened cells, varying among individuals and changing with age. As melanin decreases, more air enters the hair, causing it to lose color and turn white. Original hair color and the number of white hairs influence the overall color change to gray or white.

Continuous growth of new hair cells in the hair bulb sustains hair length during the anagen phase, comprising about 90 percent of total hair at any given time. Growth phases differ across body areas; head hair can last several years, while eyelashes, eyebrows, nasal hair, and ear hair grow for only 100 to 150 days.

At the end of the growth phase, the hair root separates from the papilla, entering the catagen phase for two to four weeks. In the telogen phase, the final resting phase, blood supply to the hair is cut off, and the hair gradually falls out. The resting phase can last several months before new hair cells multiply at the follicle base, initiating a new growth phase.

Causes of Increased Hair Loss

Daily hair loss is natural, with a healthy adult losing about 70 to 100 head hairs daily. However, noticeable increases in hair loss occur if roots are damaged during the growth phase or if many hairs enter the resting phase simultaneously. Without new hair growth, a bald spot may form, termed alopecia, whether affecting the scalp or body hair. While some types of alopecia allow hair regrowth, others, like male pattern hair loss, can lead to permanent baldness.

Most Common Causes of Hair Damage

Hair damage often arises from everyday habits, and being mindful of these practices is key to preserving healthy locks.

Heat Styling (Blow-drying, Straightening, Curling)

Regular use of heat styling tools can strip the hair of its natural moisture, leading to dryness, brittleness, and increased vulnerability to breakage.

Chemical Treatments (Dyeing, Perming)

Chemical processes, like hair dyeing and perming, introduce harsh substances that weaken the hair structure. This weakening makes the hair more prone to damage, including breakage and split ends.

Poor Hair Care Practices (Brushing, Washing, Drying)

Aggressive brushing, especially when the hair is wet, can lead to breakage. Excessive washing strips the scalp of natural oils, making the hair dry and more susceptible to damage. Rough drying methods, such as vigorous towel rubbing, contribute to frizz and breakage.

Tips for Avoiding Hair Damage

Choosing the Right Hair Products

Quality matters, and your hair deserves the best. Go for high-quality hair products that are specifically formulated for your hair type. Look for brands known for their commitment to hair health and customer satisfaction.

Certain ingredients can be detrimental to the health of your hair. Steer clear of sulfates, which can strip away natural oils and lead to dryness. Likewise, parabens, commonly used as preservatives, have been linked to potential health concerns. Choosing products free from these harmful substances is a step towards nurturing your hair.

Moisturizing agents like glycerin and natural oils such as argan oil can provide nourishment and hydration. Products containing vitamins like Biotin (B7) and panthenol (B5) contribute to hair strength and vitality.

Proper Washing Techniques

Frequency of Washing

Finding the right balance in how often you wash your hair is very important. While cleanliness is essential, overwashing can strip your hair of its natural oils and leads to dryness and potential damage. Consider your hair type and lifestyle when determining the ideal frequency – whether it's daily, every other day, or less frequently.

Use of Lukewarm Water

The temperature of the water you use during your hair wash plays a significant role in its health. Hot water can strip away essential oils, leaving your hair brittle and prone to breakage. Opt for lukewarm water to open the hair cuticles gently, allowing for effective cleansing without causing unnecessary stress.

Choosing the Right Shampoo and Conditioner

Not all hair is created equal, and neither are hair care products. Selecting the right shampoo and conditioner tailored to your specific hair type is paramount. For instance, those with oily hair might benefit from a clarifying shampoo, while individuals with dry locks could opt for a moisturizing formula. Consider your hair's unique needs and choose products that address them.

Gentle Towel Drying

Towel drying, a seemingly routine step, can either contribute to the well-being of your locks or inadvertently cause damage. Vigorously rubbing your hair with a towel might be a common practice, but it can have adverse effects on your hair's health. The friction between your hair and the towel can lead to breakage, split ends, and increased frizz. Over time, this seemingly harmless habit can contribute to cumulative damage.

Encourage Blotting or Air-Drying

Consider adopting gentler alternatives to rough towel drying. Instead of vigorously rubbing your hair, opt for a blotting motion. Gently press the towel against your hair to absorb excess moisture without causing unnecessary stress. Allowing your hair to dry naturally not only minimizes the risk of damage but also promotes your hair's natural texture.

Protective Hairstyles

The way you style your hair matters just as much as how you care for it. Protective hairstyles not only add a touch of flair to your look but can also significantly reduce stress on your hair, contributing to its overall well-being.

Choosing hairstyles that minimize pulling, tugging, and friction is essential for preventing damage. Opt for styles that keep your hair protected and secure without causing undue stress. Consider loose braids, buns, twists, or other protective styles that gently hold your hair in place without pulling at the roots.

The Benefits of Loose Braids or Buns

Loose braids and buns, when done correctly, offer a range of benefits for your hair. They distribute the tension evenly, prevent breakage, and reduce the risk of hair damage. 

Additionally, these styles can help retain moisture by minimizing exposure to environmental elements. Whether you're running errands, working out, or just enjoying a casual day, these protective hairstyles keep your hair secure and stylish.

Heat Styling Tips

For many of us, heat styling tools have become essential companions in achieving the perfect hairstyle. However, the frequent use of these tools can take a toll on the health of our hair. Here are some key tips to ensure that you can enjoy the benefits of heat styling without compromising your hair's well-being.

Proper Use of Heat Protectants

Before subjecting your hair to the heat of styling tools, it's essential to create a protective barrier. Invest in a high-quality heat protectant spray or serum and apply it evenly throughout your hair. This creates a shield that reduces the impact of heat, minimizing the risk of damage.

Optimal Temperature Settings for Styling Tools

Not all hairstyles require scorching temperatures. Most styling tools come with adjustable heat settings. For fine or delicate hair, lower temperatures suffice, while thicker or coarser hair may require higher heat. Find the right balance to achieve your desired style without exposing your hair to excessive heat.

Limiting the Frequency of Heat Styling

While sleek, styled hair is undoubtedly appealing, it's important to give your hair a break from heat styling. Limit the frequency of using flat irons, curling wands, or blow dryers to prevent cumulative damage. Go for heat-free styling methods, such as braiding or twisting, to achieve textured looks without the need for excessive heat.

Avoiding Over-Brushing

Wet hair is more susceptible to breakage, and using a regular brush on it can lead to unnecessary stress. Instead, go for a wide-tooth comb when your hair is wet. This gentler option helps detangle without causing excessive breakage, as the wide spaces between the teeth navigate through the strands with ease.

Tips for Detangling Without Causing Breakage

Detangling is a common cause of breakage if not done with care. Start from the tips and work your way up when detangling, rather than starting at the roots. Apply a leave-in conditioner or a detangling spray to add slip and make the process smoother. Be patient and gentle, working through knots gradually to prevent unnecessary hair loss.

Regular Trimming

Regular trims are not just a beauty ritual; they play a pivotal role in keeping your hair vibrant and free from damage. Trimming removes split ends and prevents them from traveling up the hair shaft, reducing the risk of breakage. It also promotes a neat and polished appearance while encouraging healthier hair growth. Think of trims as a proactive measure to maintain the overall integrity of your hair.

Schedule for Trimming Based on Hair Type:

The ideal frequency for trims can vary based on your hair type and the specific needs of your locks.

• Fine or Straight Hair: Aim for a trim every 8 to 12 weeks. Fine hair is prone to split ends, and regular trims help maintain a polished look.
• Curly or Textured Hair: Consider trims every 10 to 16 weeks. Curly hair tends to be more prone to dryness, and less frequent trims can help retain moisture while preventing split ends.
• Thick or Coarse Hair: Trim every 12 to 16 weeks. Thick hair can withstand longer intervals between trims, but regular maintenance remains crucial for overall health.

Adapting your trimming schedule based on your hair type ensures that you strike the right balance between maintaining a polished appearance and preserving the health of your hair.

Balanced Diet and Hydration

“You are what you eat.” So true! Your hair is a reflection of your overall health, and what you consume plays a pivotal role in its well-being. A diet lacking in essential nutrients can result in brittle, lackluster hair prone to breakage. On the other hand, a well-balanced and nutrient-rich diet can contribute to stronger, shinier, and more resilient locks.

Certain vitamins and minerals are particularly beneficial for promoting hair health. Include foods rich in B-vitamins, such as biotin (B7) and pantothenic acid (B5), as they contribute to hair strength and shine. Vitamins A and E are known for their antioxidant properties, promoting a healthy scalp. Consume iron, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids for optimal hair growth and moisture retention.

Stay Hydrated

Hydration is key to maintaining overall health, and your hair is no exception. Dehydration can lead to dryness and brittleness, making your hair more prone to damage. Ensure you drink an adequate amount of water daily to keep your hair and scalp hydrated from the inside out.

Nighttime Hair Care Routine

Your hair care routine doesn't end when you go to bed, nighttime practices can significantly impact the health and appearance of your hair. The type of pillowcase you choose can make a difference in the health of your hair. Opt for silk or satin pillowcases, which provide a smoother surface for your hair to glide on. 

Unlike cotton, these materials reduce friction, preventing tangles, breakage, and frizz. Additionally, silk and satin help retain your hair's natural oils, promoting hydration and minimizing dryness.

Before you hit the pillow, consider tying your hair in a loose bun or braid. This gentle restraint prevents tangling and reduces the risk of breakage during sleep. Loose styles ensure that your hair isn't subjected to unnecessary stress while allowing for comfortable rest. Avoid tight hairstyles that can pull at the roots or stress the hair shaft.

RU58841 and Pyrilutamide for Hair Health

What is RU58841?

RU58841 is a powerful anti-androgenic compound designed to be applied topically. Its primary purpose is to counteract the effects of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone associated with hair loss. By inhibiting DHT at the hair follicles, RU58841 promotes hair retention and potentially stimulates regrowth.

For individuals seeking a targeted approach to combating hair loss, RU58841 offers a localised solution. By directly addressing DHT at the source, this topical application strives to maintain a healthy environment for hair follicles, potentially preventing further thinning. There is multiple scientific evidence available to support its effectiveness. Read more

What is Pyrilutamide?

Pyrilutamide, like RU58841, is gaining recognition for its anti-androgenic properties. It's believed to inhibit the activity of androgens, including DHT, with the potential to positively impact hair health.

Pyrilutamide offers an additional option for individuals looking to incorporate anti-androgenic compounds into their hair care routine. As research on Pyrilutamide progresses, it is positioned as a potential ally in the quest for healthier, fuller hair. Read more

How Useful Are These Compounds for Hair Health?

The effectiveness of RU58841 and Pyrilutamide in promoting hair health is an area of ongoing research and interest. Many users have reported positive experiences, emphasizing the potential benefits of these compounds in mitigating hair loss and fostering a conducive environment for hair growth.

Visit MV Supplements for Your Hair Care Needs

If you are looking forward to trying RU58841 or Pyrilutamide, MV Supplements is your trusted source. We deliver across Europe, ensuring you have access to these innovative solutions that may contribute to your journey towards healthier, more resilient hair. Visit our online store and take a step towards revitalizing your beautiful hair.