Is Wearing A Hat Everyday Bad For Your Hair?

Is Wearing A Hat Everyday Bad For Your Hair?

You all might be curious to know: do hats cause hair loss? 

“Wearing a hat can induce hair loss” is talked about hair loss myth that has science to it. This misconception, however, has persisted for decades.

In this article, We've laid out the reasons why hats are acceptable attire for those experiencing hair thinning below, along with the causes of balding.

We've also provided a list of tested, scientifically-backed treatments and preventative measures for male-pattern baldness.

Table of Contents

Does Wearing A Hat Cause Hair Loss?

Wearing a tight cap regularly can cause traction alopecia or slow hair loss. Stress on the follicles and the scalp could lead to a decrease in blood flow, eventually resulting in hair loss. 

If the hat isn't too tight, it won't induce hair loss, and it's good to wear it for a few hours. If the hat was excessively tight, you could tell that the hair follicle was irritated or inflamed.

Additionally, it can cause strain that pulls your hair out, just like an extremely tight ponytail or a rigid braid.

Sometimes, it's crucial to keep your head covered when you sweat. The salt in sweat can cause skin irritation. Wearing a sweat cap might exacerbate inflammation and hasten hair loss.

A tight snap closure may potentially cause skin irritation by rubbing.

What Does Research Say About Hat Causing Hair Loss? 

Researchers looked studied the effects of environmental factors on hair loss in 92 sets of identical twins in one study. Researchers showed that a decrease in hair loss above the forehead was observed in twins who wore hats compared to those who did not.  If you want to avoid the possible link between headwear and hair loss, use a looser style.

What Are The Causes Of Hair Loss? 

Each day, men and women lose an average of 100. This shedding is very normal and beneficial. When new hairs are developing at the same time as old ones, there is no thinning or loss of hair at the scalp. 

Hair loss can occur if the normal cycles of hair loss and growth get disrupted. Scar tissue replaces damaged hair follicles, which can happen if your hat is too tight, which can lead to hair loss. 

Some of the things that can cause your scalp to start losing hair are:

  • Genetics

The most common cause of hair loss in both men and women is a family history of the condition. Alopecia areata is a genetic hair loss condition that typically affects adults.

Men commonly start balding at the crown of their heads or just above their foreheads. The hair on a woman's head gradually thins out.

  • Hormone Fluctuations 

Changes in hormone levels regulate several physiological processes, including hair growth and loss. The number of hormones in your body can be altered by a number of life events, including pregnancy, delivery, menopause, and thyroid disorders, and these changes can manifest visually in the form of hair growth or loss.

  • Illnesses and Injuries 

You may notice your hair falling out if you have ringworm, a fungal skin infection. Hair loss on the scalp is common in those with diabetes, lupus, or who have recently lost a lot of weight.

  • Pharmaceuticals and Dietary Aids

Hair loss is a known side effect of some medications, including those used to treat the triumvirate of mortal diseases, cancer, arthritis, and heart disease. 

  • An increase in Uric Acid Levels 

When radiation is applied to the scalp, hair follicles become damaged, and the hair that grows back is likely to be fine and sparse.

  • Stress

Several causes of hair loss are tied to stress. Alopecia areata is a prevalent form of this condition. The stress response can set off an autoimmune disorder like this. 

READ NEXT: How long does it take your hair to grow back? 

How To Stop Hair Loss?

Take care when you're washing your hair and combing it. Try using a comb with wide teeth to prevent hair loss while brushing. If you wear hats regularly, make sure you take good care of your hair and scalp. Scar tissue can replace damaged hair follicles and cause hair loss.

You may stop your hair from falling out by following the below-listed suggestions:

  • Do not wear your hair in a braid, bun, or ponytail that is too tight or strained.

  • Put down the hair ties and put down the comb.

  • Take care when you're washing your hair and combing it. If you find that your hair is being pulled out when brushing, switch to a comb with wider teeth.

  • Avoid using hot rollers, curling irons, hot oil treatments, and permanents, all of which have been linked to hair loss.

  • Do your best to stay away from drugs and supplements that have been linked to a loss of hair. Before altering your current regimen or beginning a new one, discussing your plans with your doctor is important.

  • Wearing a scarf, a loose hat, or some other kind of head cover can prevent damage to your hair from the sun or tanning beds.

  • If you want to prevent hair loss, you should quit smoking.

  • If you are receiving chemotherapy, you may wish to request a cooling cap. It has been suggested that cooling caps can lessen the severity of hair loss experienced by patients undergoing chemotherapy.

Final Thoughts 

Scientists aren't 100% convinced yet, but it's highly unlikely that men's hats trigger hair loss. However, as a precautionary measure, you may wish to avoid wearing too tight headwear.

It's possible you won't be able to stop balding altogether if it's hereditary. However, there are measures you may take to protect yourself against hair loss that can be avoided.

If you've noticed hair loss, it's advisable to see a doctor, so you can get to the bottom of what's causing it and what can be done about it.

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