Home Remedies for Hair Fall: Best DIY Masks & Proven Methods to Reduce Fall

Hair fall is the process where hair sheds from the scalp. Research suggests that it's completely normal to lose 50 to 100 strands of hair a day as part of the natural hair growth cycle. This is typically not noticeable as new hair is growing in at the same time. However, excessive hair fall occurs when the rate of hair loss greatly exceeds the rate of new hair growth, resulting in noticeable thinning, minimised volume, or even balding patches.

These are the natural causes of hair fall:

• Nutritional Deficiencies: Lack of essential nutrients such as Iron, Protein, Zinc, and Vitamins is a cause of hair fall.

• Stress: High levels of chronic physical or emotional stress results in hair fall.

• Hormonal Changes: Issues like thyroid problems, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), pregnancy, and menopause could also cause hair loss.

• Genetic Factors: Hereditary male-pattern baldness or female-pattern hair loss are significant factors.

• Medical Conditions: Autoimmune diseases, scalp infections and certain medications also cause hair fall.

Here are expert-approved ways to stop hair fall naturally:

• Scalp Massage: Regular oiling and massaging with natural oils stimulates blood circulation to the hair follicles, strengthening the roots.

• Use Essential Oils: Dilute and apply essential oils like rosemary or peppermint, which are known to boost hair growth. "According to research, rosemary oil has benefits for hair growth and hair thickness. It reduces the hair shedding, helps in dandruff and dry scalp and improves the hair shine," says Dr Geeta Mehra Fazalbhoy, founder of Skin & You Clinic. "You can mix rosemary oil with coconut oil and olive oil. Half a tablespoon or one tablespoon can be applied on the scalp left for 25 to 30 minutes, and then washed with an ideal shampoo."

• Manage Stress: Practice stress-minimising techniques such as yoga, meditation, deep breathing, and regular exercise.

• Proper Sleep: "Most people don't realise that sleep matters more for hair fall than any shampoo or supplement. Almost all follicle repair happens at night, and even a few nights of poor sleep can spike cortisol enough to weaken the root and trigger shedding. Prioritising 7–8 solid hours is one of the simplest, most effective ways to improve hair health from the inside out," says Nyela Kapadia, fitness expert and co-founder of Intermittent Fasting Mindful Living.

The TRESemme Spa Rejuvenation Hair Mask and Love Beauty And Planet Curry, Biotin & Moringa Hair Mask are excellent store-bought options. Additionally, the following DIY masks are packed with nutrients:

Eggs are rich in protein, sulfur, zinc, and phosphorus, which are important for strong, healthy hair. This is a great hair mask for hair fall.

• Ingredients: One egg yolk, one tablespoon of honey and one tablespoon of olive oil or coconut oil.

• How to Prepare: Mix all ingredients together until you get a smooth, consistent paste.

• How to Apply: Section your hair and use a brush or your fingers to apply the mask from the roots to the tips and then cover your head with a shower cap.

• How Often to Use: Apply it once a week. Leave on for 25-30 minutes, then rinse with cold or lukewarm water and use a mild shampoo.

Fenugreek seeds are a rich source of iron and protein, which help repair damaged hair follicles and promote regrowth.

• Ingredients: Two to three tablespoons of fenugreek seeds, water for soaking.

• How to Prepare: Soak the fenugreek seeds overnight. The next morning, grind them into a smooth, thick paste.

• How to Apply: Apply the paste directly to your scalp and hair.

• How Often to Use: Utilise it once a week. Leave on for about 30 minutes to an hour, then rinse off with cool water.

Experts recommend making the following simple dietary and lifestyle changes to minimise hair fall:

1. Eat a Protein-Rich Diet: "Hair is primarily made of protein (keratin), so increasing protein intake from sources like beans, eggs, fish, nuts, lean meats, and seeds can support hair growth and reduce hair fall caused by protein deficiency," mentions Dr Ritula Talwar, homoeopathic physician and senior manager PMT, at Zeon Lifescience.
2. Boost Iron Intake: Eat spinach, lentils, beans, and lean red meat to prevent iron deficiency, a common cause of hair loss.
3. Consume Omega-3s: Include fatty fish (salmon), walnuts, and flaxseeds, which boost overall scalp health.
4. Increase Vitamins: Ensure adequate consumption of Vitamin C (citrus fruits, berries), Vitamin A (carrots, sweet potatoes), and B-complex vitamins (whole grains, eggs).
5. Practice Relaxation Techniques: "Complement a balanced diet with mindful lifestyle practices such as yoga, which aids in reducing stress and improving circulation. These habits create a holistic foundation for maintaining strong, healthy hair," adds Dr Satish Singh, board member of scientific committee at Yugap Wellness.

Incorporate the following gentle hair care habits in your daily routine:

• Wash Hair with Lukewarm or Cold Water: Don't use hot water, which strips natural oils and weakens hair.

• Use a Wide-Toothed Comb: Detangle your wet hair carefully, starting from the ends and working your way up.

• Limit Heat Styling: Minimise the use of blow dryers, straighteners, and curling irons.

• Use Silk Pillowcases: Silk or satin pillowcases minimise friction, which minimises hair breakage while you sleep.

While home remedies are effective for minor hair fall, you should consult a dermatologist or healthcare provider if the hair fall is sudden and severe, or if your hair loss is accompanied by scalp redness, or other symptoms like fatigue and weight change.

Adopting a holistic approach can be highly effective in reducing hair fall and promoting thicker, healthier hair. "Hair fall is usually caused by factors such as stress, changes in hormones, deficiency of nutrients, or even the frequent use of harsh products," concludes Dr Nirupama Parwanda, dermatologist and founder of Zolie Skin Clinic. "Eating foods rich in protein, drinking enough water, and sleeping well are also the necessary conditions that healthy hair will be grown under."

Here are some expert-approved questions about home remedies for hair fall answered by the experts:

A: Results depend on a lot of factors, but you should generally be consistent with a routine for at least two to three months to notice a noticeable reduction in hair fall and new growth.

A: Coconut oil is best as it penetrates the hair well and minimises protein loss. Amla (Indian Gooseberry) oil and olive oil are also highly beneficial for strengthening and stimulating the scalp.