Breakage is a huge problem, especially for those with curlier, coarser hair textures due to the inability of oil produced by the scalp to extend the full length of the curly hair shaft,” Dr. Hartman notes. The coilier shape of the strand makes it particularly difficult for these natural oils to travel far down the shaft, making it naturally prone to dryness. The tighter the curl or coil, the more susceptible it is to breakage. Aging and gray hair also break off more easily. “Aging hair, especially gray and white hair, tends to be coarser and resists moisture absorption. It has also lost elasticity, making it ripe for breakage,” explains Dr. Yadav.
Heat styling can also put enough stress on your hair to cause breakage, so it is always important to use a protectant before you use a hot tool.
Thyroid disorders and genetic hair shaft conditions can contribute to hair damage and breakage, as can nutritional deficiencies caused by an unbalanced diet or disordered eating. Dr. Hartman also mentions that scalp fungi and (mainly bacterial) folliculitis can also be to blame. In these situations, it’s important to consult a doctor to accurately identify the problem.
Stress can also physically damage your hair. “Increased levels of stress hormones — mainly cortisol — disrupt the hair cycle,” Sadick explains. So, if work is extremely hectic or you’re going through an emotionally traumatic event and experiencing breakage, you may want to talk to your doctor about whether stress might be the main cause.
Schedule a complimentary scalp analysis (value $100) session with our associate trichologist, Rosie, for more answers concerning hair and scalp health.