Old wives’ tales abound about why we lose our hair. Here we attempt to separate the fact from fiction and debunk some of the myths you may have heard.

MYTH #1: HAIR LOSS IS CAUSED BY POOR CIRCULATION.

A number of treatments claim that boosting circulation to the affected area will enable hair to grow. Unfortunately, this is not the case. Consider that, if you decide to have a hair transplant, the hair plugs will then grow, proving that circulation in bald spots is no different to anywhere else on the scalp.

MYTH #2: HAIR LOSS IS CAUSED BY CLOGGED FOLLICLES.

Clogged hair follicles are not the cause of hair loss. In actual fact, clogged hair follicles lead to ingrown hairs. Hair-care products which claim to be able to open these pores will not prevent hair loss.

MYTH #3: HAIR LOSS IS CAUSED BY POOR NUTRITION.

It is obvious that a poor diet will have deleterious effect on the body, and may indeed lead to a temporary increase in hair shedding. However, products which claim to be able to nourish the hair will not reverse your hair loss.

MYTH #4: HAIR LOSS IS CAUSED BY MITES AND OTHER ORGANISMS.

Mites, indeed, can be found in our hair – as well as our beds and bedding. However, there is no proven link between these creatures and hair loss. Killing the mites off does not mean that your hair will grow again.