Hair loss shampoo is a cleanser specially formulated to combat thinning hair that is leading to baldness. Ingredients known to stimulate hair growth and to thicken each strand of hair are often added to the cleansing base of a hair loss shampoo. People who are experiencing the loss of hair are advised to first attempt to discover the underlying cause of the problem so they can make an informed decision when choosing one of these shampoos. Most of these cleansers were developed to treat specific conditions known to lead to hair loss, such as male pattern baldness. Some hair loss shampoos contain substances that are not considered all natural, but others are composed strictly of all-natural ingredients.
Researchers have found that most cases of thinning hair or baldness are caused by poor circulation, hormonal changes or influences, genetics, stress or an unhealthy diet that is low in nutrients. Sometimes more than one of these factors is the cause. Shampoos that are formulated to neutralize the hormone dihydrotesterone (DHT) were developed to help retard baldness in males. DHT is converted from the hormone testosterone and can bind to hair follicles, causing them to enter a resting phase faster than normal and to become thinner. Females also can suffer hair loss because of hormonal changes and influences that take place during pregnancy and menopause.
When poor circulation is the problem, stimulating ingredients such as niacin and mint might be found in these shampoos. Others contain nutrients such as the B vitamins and minerals in which one's diet might be lacking. It has been discovered that the hair follicles in females sit at an angle, causing the hair to grow at an angle and allowing sebum to run off instead of building up and clogging the follicle. The fact that male hair follicles do not sit at such an angle has led some researchers to believe that a build-up of sebum could restrict hair growth in some men. This is why most shampoos formulated to stop hair loss are also deep cleansing.
Some herbs are known to discourage hair loss and baldness by stimulating the scalp, nourishing and rejuvenating the hair follicles. Among such herbs are jaborandi, Indian hemp, rosemary and nettles. An all-natural hair loss shampoo can be made in the home by preparing an infusion or decoction of the chosen herb in bulk form, to which a mild soap can be added. The medicinal and nutritive properties of soft plant material such as flowers or leaves are extracted by infusion, and the properties of harder material such as seeds, roots and barks are extracted by decoction. It is advisable to rinse the hair in weak vinegar water after cleansing it with a soap-based herbal hair loss shampoo.