Khaberni - A British expert warned that a common winter habit could be behind the increase in hair loss cases, indicating that showering with very hot water could damage the scalp and weaken hair follicles.
Dr. Wajid Ali Anwar, a cosmetic and reconstructive surgeon and hair transplant specialist in the United Kingdom, explained that high heat causes inflammation of the scalp and removes natural oils that protect the hair, leading to its dryness, brittleness, and possibly mistaken temporary hair loss as sudden loss.
He added that individuals who suffer from hair thinning may notice an increase in the problem when exposed to hot water.
A common phenomenon, but with multiple causes
Hair loss is natural, as a person loses between 50 and 100 hairs a day without noticing, according to data from the UK National Health Service (NHS).
Approximately 40% of British men experience hereditary baldness by the age of fifty, while a similar proportion of women experience gradual thinning with age.
Hair loss is also attributed to other factors, including stress, illness, iron deficiency, rapid weight loss, or treatments such as chemotherapy, according to "The Sun".
Heat weakens keratin
Although there is no direct evidence linking hot water and baldness, some studies suggest that repeated exposure to high heat may weaken the hair structure. A study published in 2023 in the journal Polymers showed that hot water damages the keratin protein responsible for hair strength, making it fragile and prone to breaking.
Tips for maintaining the scalp
Dr. Anwar advises adhering to a moderate bathing temperature ranging between 37 and 39 degrees Celsius, where an individual feels comfortable warmth without a burning sensation.
He suggests testing the water temperature on the wrist before use, opting for a short evening shower lasting about five minutes to remove sweat and dirt, and avoiding vigorous scrubbing or hot water after exercising.
