Dear Pharmacist,When I was growing up, my dad told me that washing my hair daily would make it fall out sooner. He said to wash my hair every few days rather than every day to avoid going bald. Is there any truth to this?
D.G., Round Rock, Texas
Answer: No, it’s not true. Balding has more to do with genetics, hormone imbalances, nutrient deficiencies and drug side effects. It may seem that daily shampooing increases hair loss because we see hair fall out during the washing process. But it’s possible to lose up to a 100 hair fibers a day and still boast a full head of hair. The shedding has nothing to do with shampooing. It’s because hair follicles cycle between growth and rest. The growth phase may last for years but eventually, that hair follicle has to rest. Eventually, that hair fiber is pushed out by a new hair fiber growing beneath it. Brushing, combing or shampooing may loosen and detach these old hair fibers but this was their natural destiny anyway.
Suzy Cohen, has been a licensed pharmacist for over 30 years and believes the best approach to chronic illness is a combination of natural medicine and conventional. She founded her own dietary supplement company specializing in custom-formulas, some of which have patents. With a special focus on functional medicine, thyroid health and drug nutrient depletion, Suzy is the author of several related books including Thyroid Healthy, Drug Muggers, Diabetes Without Drugs, and a nationally syndicated column.
