'I'm a globally recognised trichologist – a bad habit doubles your chance of severe hair loss'
GB NEWS
|Hair expert Richard Ward explains how to combat hair loss

A leading expert spoke exclusively to GB News about how to combat thinning at home
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Hair loss is a concern among both men and women, affecting more than 50 per cent of the global population.
Yet, despite how common the condition is, so many suffer in silence due to the stigma surrounding it.
Nioxin, a global leader in scalp and hair care, believes that conversations around hair loss should centre around empowerment as opposed to fear and shame.
The expert-approved brand, which helped one woman achieve "crazy" growth, hopes to "raise awareness, break the stigma, and offer real solutions for those experiencing hair thinning and hair loss".
For those struggling, Nioxin trichologist Mark Blake has provided his favourite at-home hair loss solutions. Mark is globally recognised in his field and considered a "go-to" among the UK's top hairstylists, so his tips are certainly worth trying.
Speaking exclusively to GB News, the expert urged sufferers to quit smoking, utilise oils, and reconsider their hair care techniques.
Stop smoking
In case you need another reason to stop smoking, hair damage is a likely consequence of the bad habit, Mark cautioned.
"We all know smoking is not good for our health, but did you know it can affect your hair follicles? Researchers found you have twice as much chance of having moderate to severe hair loss in people who smoked 20 cigarettes a day compared to those who don't smoke," the expert warned.
He referenced a second study, which found that 425 out of 500 smokers develop some degree of hair loss, while only 200 out of 500 non-smokers show signs of it.
Smoking may also increase DHT (dihydrotestosterone), which is thought to play a "major role" in male and female hair loss.
The solution? "Just give up smoking for your hair's sake," Mark advised.
'Just give up smoking for your hair's sake'
Try essential oils
According to Mark, lavender and peppermint essential oils are certainly worth trying.
The expert said: "Lavender oil has been shown to help grow hair faster, and it also reduces stress, so you sleep better, and the night is when the body repairs itself.
"Peppermint oil increases circulation in the areas it comes into contact with, nourishing and invigorating the hair and scalp."
One woman who reversed her hair loss and grew back her receding hairline swore by rosemary oil for amazing results.
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Trim split ends regularly
Even if your goal is long, luscious locks, having your ends trimmed regularly is essential.
To prevent a shorter-than-anticipated chop at the hands of an overzealous stylist, "tell them you'll be more impressed by what's left on your head rather than what's on the floor".
'Scalp health is directly linked to hair health, so we need to keep our scalps scrupulously clean'
Wash your hair correctly
Is it bad to wash your hair every day? Debunking the myth once and for all, Mark stated: "No. You can wash your hair as often as you want with a good quality shampoo.
"I always use Nioxin shampoo as it's the perfect daily shampoo. Remember, scalp health is directly linked to hair health, so we need to keep our scalps scrupulously clean."
Brush carefully
It may be tempting to rake a brush through your tresses at breakneck speed. After all, it's a task often completed before we race through the door on the way to an event or occasion.
However, according to the trichologist, it's important to be very gentle with your hair, especially when it's wet, as this is when your hair is at its most fragile.
He advised: "Always use a large tooth comb or good quality brush to get knots out, starting at the ends of your hair and working upwards to your scalp.
"Forget the old myth of brushing your hair 100 times a day – just brush it gently when it needs it."
Use a silk pillowcase
To avoid damaging your hair whilst snoozing, consider investing in silk pillowcases.
Mark explained that these reduce frizz and tangles – bye-bye, bedhead – thereby preventing damage.
He concluded: "Cotton pillow cases can also absorb moisture from your hair, unlike a silk pillowcase."
It's important to note that while at-home hair loss remedies can work wonders on some, they do not provide miracle results for everyone.
If you're worried about hair loss, whether it's sudden shedding or gradual thinning, consult your GP for tailored advice.
Medication, steroid injections, immunotherapy, light treatment, hair transplant, and scalp reduction surgery are all options outlined on the NHS website.