Effect of pollution on hair Image Credit source: PTI / Getty Images
Pollution levels are continuously increasing in many parts of the country. Dust, smoke and harmful particles present in the air are harmful not only for the lungs, eyes or skin, but also for the hair. Small particles of pollution PM2.5 and PM10 settle on the scalp and weaken the hair roots. This not only reduces the shine and strength of hair, but also increases problems like itching, dryness and dandruff in the scalp.
pollution Due to continuous exposure to it, the health of the scalp deteriorates. Dirt and dust clog the pores of the scalp, due to which the hair follicles do not get oxygen and nutrition. Its symptoms include hair becoming lifeless, dryness, breakage, increase in dandruff and itching in the scalp. Many times stickiness and bad smell is also felt in the hair. If care is not taken, this problem can gradually turn into hair fall and baldness. Due to pollution, the amount of protein present in the hair also reduces, due to which the natural growth of hair stops.
Does increasing pollution also cause hair fall?
Dr. Sumesh Kumar of Dermatology Department at AIIMS It is said that skin and hair problems have increased significantly among the patients coming to him these days. People who already had problems with acne or pimples, their problems have increased further. Cases of skin diseases like psoriasis are also being seen. The effect of pollution is clearly visible on the hair also. Although it does not have a direct effect on hair fall, it spoils the quality of the hair and makes the roots weak. If there is already a problem related to hair, then pollution can further aggravate it and cause hair fall.
Dr. Kumar Said that pollution increases oxidative stress on the surface of the scalp, due to which the natural oil of the hair starts getting depleted. This increases problems like dryness, split ends and color fading in hair. Continuous accumulation of dirt also affects the growth cycle of the hair, due to which the problem of hair loss can increase rapidly.
how to protect
Cover your hair with a scarf or cap when going out.
Do deep conditioning or hair oil massage twice a week.
Include things containing protein, iron and vitamin E in your diet.
Reduce the use of hair spray or gel during pollution days.
If there is excessive hair fall, then definitely consult a dermatologist.