If you put some thought into your hair care, chances are you’ve come across shampoos that contain keratin or hyaluronic acid. But what exactly do these ingredients do? More importantly, how do they help prevent hair loss?
The Lowdown on Keratin
Keratin is a protein that our bodies naturally produce. It gives our hair structure and keeps it strong and healthy. But when there’s not enough of it, your hair will become dry and frizzle. This, in turn, leaves it prone to breaking and falling out. Over time, you may also notice that your hair is thinning.
There are several ways you can use keratin to prevent hair loss. For one, you can find it in many commercial shampoos. It is also available as a dietary supplement in combination with biotin. On top of that, many hair salons now offer keratin treatments. They can help straighten your hair and prevent it from frizzing.
About Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid is also present in our bodies and plays a major part in hair health. Namely, it covers the inner layer of the scalp and keeps it moist. In doing so, it ensures that your hair stays healthy and that your follicles can grow new hair.
Experts say that using hyaluronic acid on the surface of the scalp may help prevent hair loss. You can find it in shampoos, as well as in the form of a serum. By keeping your scalp clean and moist, this serum will also prevent your hair from thinning and falling out.
A Word of Warning
Both these ingredients can help you prevent hair loss. They are safe to use in all their forms, but there’s something you need to keep in mind.
Most keratin hair treatments contain formaldehyde. In large amounts, it can act as a carcinogen. But don’t worry, because the majority of popular treatments keep it at low levels. To be on the safe side, you can also ask salon professionals about it before you opt for a treatment.
