Can dehydration cause hair loss? The short answer is yes – but it’s not quite as simple as a clear cut answer. While not the primary reason for hair loss, dehydration can indeed contribute to hair loss.
Fortunately, as long as the follicle isn’t too damaged, the process is often reversible. Let me explain in more detail.
Understanding Hair and Its Growth Cycle
To comprehend how dehydration can influence hair loss, you should understand the basic structure and growth cycle of your hair.
I don’t want to dwell too much on science, so just know that your hair grows in three phases:
Anagen Phase (Growth Phase): This is the active growth phase where hair follicles produce new hair. It can last several years.
Catagen Phase (Transition Phase): This short phase marks the end of active hair growth. Hair follicles shrink, and growth slows down.
Telogen Phase (Resting Phase): During this phase, hair growth stops, and the hair eventually sheds. After shedding, the follicle remains inactive for a while before re-entering the anagen phase, starting the cycle again.
In addition to blood supply and nutrients, hydration is crucial for maintaining the health of hair follicles during these phases.
The Role of Water in Hair Health
Here’s how proper hydration can support your hair:
Cellular Function and Hair Growth
Hair follicles, like all cells in the body, require water to function optimally. Water aids in nutrient absorption and the removal of toxins.
Dehydration can disrupt these processes, leading to undernourished hair follicles and stunted hair growth.
Scalp Health
A healthy scalp is paramount for strong and healthy hair. Dehydration can cause the scalp to become dry, flaky, and irritated.
I was unlucky enough to have dandruff during my dehydration period, and it worsened the case.
Hair Structure
Hair strands are composed of a significant amount of water. When the body is dehydrated, hair can become dry, brittle, and more prone to breakage.
As such, adequate hydration helps maintain the moisture balance in hair.
Blood Circulation
We are around 60% water. As such, water is essential for maintaining healthy blood circulation. Proper blood flow ensures that hair follicles receive the necessary nutrients and oxygen.
Dehydration can impair circulation, reducing the efficiency of nutrient delivery to the scalp and hair follicles.
You Need External Hydration Too
Water intake is useful, but you’ll still suffer from dryness if you’re constantly in hot weather. As such, you need to keep your scalp moisturized using products.
Here are some of the best ones I tried:
1. Garnier Whole Blends Gentle Detangling Hair Milk Oat Delicacy
Garnier Whole Blends is a milky mist that melts through knots and nourishes hair with oat and rice extracts and aloe juice.
The formula is wonderfully light and it makes combing damp hair a breeze with minimal effort.
2. SheaMoisture High Porosity Moisture Correct Masque
SheaMoisture is a rich mask that transforms processed hair into frizz-free, smooth strands with baobab proteins and shea butter.
This one is among my favorites because of its ability to make my hair feel more elastic, cleaner, and soft to the touch.
3. Matrix Biolage Advanced Keratindose Pro-Keratin + Silk Renewal Spray
The Matrix Biolage is an absolute fan favorite, reaching nearly 7,000 reviews on Amazon, and for good reason.
This creamy leave-in conditioner and style-finisher nourishes split or broken hair. Described by many as “The Holy Grail for hair,” it helps hair feel soft and look extra shiny.
Before I Let You Go
Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink water, as this is your body’s signal that you’re starting to dehydrate; you don’t want that to happen.
Mix adequate water intake with a proper hair-moisturizing product, and your hair will thank you for it.