Hair Support

The major patterns for the hair loss is:

• Kidney Vacuity
• Liver Blood Vacuity

The hair of the head is the external bloom of the kidney and is the surplus of the blood. Hair loss is attributed to kidney vacuity or blood vacuity depriving the hair of nourishment. It is commonly the result of illness, childbirth, or malnutrition.  The hair becomes sparse and dull, and may lighten in color.

The hair is related to liver blood. The ancient Chinese observed that (Chinese)hair is black and bears a brightness when qi(vital force) and blood are exuberant in youth, and loses its color and sheen with increasing kidney qi vacuity of advancing years, for which reason it is said that the Kidney, its bloom is in the hair. Since "the liver and kidney are of the same source," and "the liver stores the blood", the health of the hair is understood to be related not only to the kidney but also to the liver.

NUTRITION

• Biotin, found in green peas, oats, soybeans, sunflower seeds and walnuts, is essential for healthy hair and skin. Kelp and seaweed are also excellent choices to include in the daily diet.
• Protein is the essential make-up of hair. Therefore, the intake of food high in protein such as milk, fish, egg, and beans are recommended.
• Foods that are high in collagen will improve the elasticity and shine of hair, such as wild yam, taro, lotus root and tendons.
• Intake of vitamins A and B are also recommended, as they can improve circulation to the scalp and promote hair growth.
• Increase intake of water, vegetables, fruits, seeds and nuts for patients with dry skin.
• Those with dandruff can increase the intake of vitamin B6 and B12.
• Consume adequate amounts of vegetables for vitamins, as they improve circulation to the scalp and promote hair growth.

LIFESTYLE INSTRUCTIONS

• Avoid cigarette smoking and second-hand smoke, sugar, alcohol, caffeine and junk food.
• Stay out of the sun as it can dry and damage skin and hair.
• Stress can impair the delivery of nutrients to the scalp as it causes stagnation. Patient should be advised to stay away from stressful situations.
• Natural bristle brushes are recommended. Brushes with sharp tips should not be used as they might scrape the scalp. To invigorate circulation to the scalp, brush hair 100 times from the back of the head towards the front with the head down at least twice a day.
• Untangle hair with a brush before shampooing. Mild shampoo should also be selected to avoid over stimulation to the scalp. Water temperature should not be too hot to avoid further hair loss. The scalp can be massaged while shampooing. Be sure to rinse completely, leaving no shampoo or conditioning residues to clog up the hair pores. Hair should be dried by gently padding on the towel instead of rubbing back and forth.
• Blow drying and use of hair products such as gel, mousse, hairspray are not recommended. Chemical treatments, perms, and color should also be avoided.
• Avoid swimming as much as possible as chlorine does much damage to the hair. If one cannot avoid swimming, it is recommended that the patient wear a cap or rub some baby oil into the hair.
• Get regular exercise and establish a normal pattern of sleep.