A rather intriguing and even debatable topic – do helmets really cause hair fall in men? Going by the results on the internet, one would only presume that it does.
Riding a two-wheeler inevitably requires wearing a helmet for long hours. Prolonged usage of the helmet can also cause premature hair loss. Helmets are made of layers. The outer layer contains polycarbonate, fibreglass and other composite materials that are meant to disperse the force of the impact and resist any penetrations that could be caused by sharp objects. The layer that comes in contact with the hair and the scalp is usually made up of polystyrene. This material transfers as little force as possible to the head. Where all this is wonderful, there are certain reasons for the hair fall.
Helmets and hair loss
Though unpleasant you cannot really ride without a helmet. It definitely has to be worn to protect yourself, over-all. Here is how helmets can cause hair loss:
- It is believed that wearing a helmet regularly make the hair roots move close to the scalp causing a condition called traction alopecia. The roots lose their anchoring to the scalp and tend to fall.
- The helmet can get claustrophobic and individuals experience a lot of sweating leading to accumulation of bacteria in the scalp. A dirty and undernourished scalp means it is weak and can lead to hair loss.
- Some helmets can be made of cheap leather and result in sweat deposits making scalp vulnerable to fungal infections.
- They way you wear and remove your helmet can cause hair loss too – especially if your movements are rough.
How to prevent hair fall due to helmets
- When you put your helmet on lift it up slightly and slip it on gently several times – repeat the process till you feel that hair is not being pulled and hair does not feel loose
- Jig the helmet before you put it on so that when you wear it, the hairs are not pulled away from the scalp
- Treat your helmet with anti-bacterial solutions to keep it hygienic and bacteria-free – this will avoid scalp infections
- Reverse hair loss by improving the blood circulation in the scalp – massage your scalp regularly to relax your scalp muscles and enable free blood flow
