It’s easy to imagine that hair loss is just due to genetics or autoimmune conditions. But there's more to the story. Our environment, and some of our favourite pastimes, might be making things a wee bit tricky for our locks. Today we're talking about the external factors which can cause hair loss.

1. The Invisible Foe: Air Pollution

We love our cities. The buzz of Melbourne’s laneways, the charm of New York’s Central Park, the allure of London's West End - but with city life comes a little nemesis named air pollution. Those tiny pollutants from cars and industries find a way to settle on our scalp, potentially weakening hair roots. Regularly washing and shielding your hair when in highly polluted areas can be a start. It's a bit like treating your hair like a prized plant – give it fresh air and keep it clean!

2. Dive in, But with Caution: Salt Water & Chlorine

Ah, the beach! Sun, sand, and surf. Or those gorgeous pool days. While a dip is refreshing, saltwater can draw moisture out of your hair, leading it to become dry and brittle. And pools? The chlorine is fab for keeping things clean but not so fab for our hair. It strips our locks of its natural oils, leaving them parched. Rinse your hair with fresh water before and after your swim. Consider it a quick little prep-and-aftercare routine.

3. When the Sun Isn’t Your BFF: Sun Exposure

If you're like me, you’ve probably basked in the sun during those perfect summer days. But our hair? It's screaming for some shade! UV rays can degrade the protein in our hair. Remember, it's not about avoiding the sun; it’s about balance. Think of a nice wide-brimmed hat as your hair's personal bodyguard.

4. Colour Adventures: Bleaching and Dying

I’ve been there. Experimenting with colours, from deep plum to platinum blonde. It’s fun! But bleaching and dying do alter the structure of our hair. Overdoing it might lead to thinning and weakening of strands. The key? Everything in moderation and loads of aftercare. Hair masks will become your weekend pamper buddy.

5. Sneaky Invaders: Toxins and Heavy Metals

We might not see them, but they’re there. Toxins and heavy metals from our surroundings can build up on our scalp. Some studies suggest these can interrupt the hair growth cycle. Detoxing your scalp might sound fancy, but it's straightforward. There are shampoos designed to remove build-ups. Also, a gentle massage while shampooing can increase blood circulation and help in the detoxification process.

6. Water: It's Not All the Same

You'd think something as basic as water wouldn't have a huge impact. But water quality varies, and it makes a difference. Hard water, which is mineral-rich, can cause build-up on the scalp, leading to dandruff or itchiness. If you're in an area with hard water, consider getting a shower filter. It's like a little spa treatment every time you wash your hair.

7. Stress: The Unseen Culprit

Amidst all the external factors, let’s not forget the internal ones. And by that, I mean stress. Whether it’s from work, personal life, or the simple strain of day-to-day activities, stress has a sneaky way of affecting hair health. It can disrupt the natural growth cycle, leading to hair thinning or even hair loss. Remember to breathe, practice mindfulness, and seek support if you feel it's all getting a tad overwhelming.

Wrapping it up… or should I say, tying it up?

It's funny, isn’t it? Sometimes the very things we love can be a tad challenging for our hair. But hey, it’s not about avoiding them. It’s about being informed and taking those little steps to show our hair some love.

I know it’s tempting to think: “Oh no, one more thing to worry about.” But see it as a journey. A journey of understanding our hair better, making informed choices, and building routines that help us rock any hairstyle we choose. Whether it’s our natural locks, a wig, or a topper, it's about embracing every strand with confidence and joy.

We’ve all been through our unique hair journeys. Mine had its share of ups and downs, moments of despair, and times of discovery. And while every journey is different, remember, we're in this together.