The 10 best natural treatments for hair loss

Hair loss is a completely natural phenomenon, so there’s no need to worry. A slight loss of hair is not alarming—it can be hereditary, caused by hormonal fluctuations (especially in women), or related to seasonal changes. However, significant or unusual hair loss should be addressed quickly! Before considering surgical procedures, it’s best to start with natural treatments for hair loss.

Here are the 10 best treatments to strengthen hair roots and promote hair growth.

What are the causes of hair loss ?

Before treating hair loss, it’s important to understand its origin to address it effectively. Below are the main causes of significant or unusual hair loss.

Stress

When you're stressed, you might not always notice it, but your body does! Stress has many negative effects on the body, including weakening the hair and contributing to alopecia. Similarly, a major emotional shock or trauma can manifest physically as hair loss a few months later.

Fatigue

Fatigue negatively affects blood circulation in the scalp. This weakens hair follicles, leading to the loss of fragile hair strands.

Hormonal imbalance

If you are a woman experiencing excessive hair loss, it may be due to a hormonal imbalance. For example, taking contraceptives, pregnancy, or menopause can trigger unusual hair loss. A drop in female hormones—estrogen and progesterone—can cause hair thinning and slow growth.

Illness

Some illnesses can lead to significant hair loss, such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, or autoimmune diseases.

Additionally, certain medical treatments can cause hair loss. For example, this is one of the most common side effects of chemotherapy.

Tight hairstyles

Your hair can become weak if you frequently wear tight hairstyles (such as ponytails or African braids) or if you pull too hard while styling. Regular use of chemical products (such as hair bleach) can also contribute to severe hair loss.

Nutritional Deficiencies

An unbalanced or insufficient diet can lead to serious deficiencies, which can manifest in various ways, including hair loss. If you notice excessive hair thinning, you may be lacking iron, zinc, B vitamins, or omega-3 fatty acids.

10 natural remedies for hair loss

Vegetable oils

Certain vegetable oils can help prevent hair loss.

Castor oil, for example, is well known for boosting hair growth. Rich in vitamin E, this vegetable oil strengthens the roots and promotes hair growth. To combat hair loss with castor oil, choose an organic, virgin, and cold-pressed version. Once a week, apply a small amount of castor oil to your hands and gently massage your scalp.

Coconut oil is a great alternative to castor oil. Packed with vitamin E, vitamin K, and fatty acids, it keeps your scalp hydrated and healthy, strengthens the roots, and prevents hair loss. For the best results, massage your scalp daily with coconut oil, then leave it on for about 30 minutes before washing your hair.

Lastly, jojoba oil is also effective, provided it is organic, virgin, and cold-pressed. Hydrating and revitalizing, this vegetable oil benefits your scalp, roots, and hair. To use jojoba oil for hair loss, apply it as an oil treatment before shampooing.

Essential oils

Aromatherapy can be effective in preventing hair loss. Never apply essential oils directly to your scalp, as they can be irritating. Instead, mix them with a neutral oil such as jojoba, argan, sweet almond, or macadamia oil.

Lavender essential oil is particularly known for promoting hair growth. It also hydrates the scalp, reduces dandruff, and adds shine to the hair. With its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, lavender essential oil can also relieve scalp itching.

Clary sage essential oil is especially suitable if you have oily hair. It helps strengthen the roots and prevent hair loss.

Grapefruit and Atlas cedar essential oils are also effective in fighting hair loss and eliminating dandruff.

Dietary supplements

Taking targeted dietary supplements can be beneficial, especially if your hair loss is due to a nutritional deficiency. Among the most effective supplements is vitamin B8, known for its positive effects on hair and nails.

Omega-3 fatty acids are also recommended to strengthen hair and prevent hair loss.

Additionally, multivitamin supplements can be highly beneficial.

To determine the best supplement for you, it’s best to consult your doctor. They may recommend a blood test to check for deficiencies that could be causing your hair loss.

A balanced diet

Maintaining a balanced diet is one of the best remedies to slow down hair loss. To improve your hair health, consume plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

Here are the key nutrients and minerals you should prioritize in your diet:

• Vitamin A (carrots, apricots, mangoes…);
• Vitamin B (nuts, whole grains, eggs, meat, and fish…);
• Zinc (red meat, seafood, legumes…);
• Sulfur amino acids (lentils, egg yolks, nuts…);
• Iron and magnesium (spinach, arugula…).

Brewer’s yeast

Rich in B vitamins and essential minerals, brewer’s yeast has a highly beneficial impact on hair structure. It strengthens your hair and promotes healthy growth. You can consume it as part of your diet or as a dietary supplement.

Onion juice

Onion juice is a traditional remedy that has proven effective in stimulating hair regrowth. Due to its high sulfur content, it enhances blood circulation in the scalp, strengthening the hair fiber and boosting hair growth.

Treating hair loss with onion juice is simple. Peel and chop an onion, then blend it at maximum speed. Strain the mixture to extract the juice. Apply the juice to your scalp with a gentle massage, covering all areas, including the temples. Repeat this process regularly for several months.

Be cautious, as onion juice may cause allergic reactions, especially if you have a sensitive scalp. Before applying it to your hair, place a small amount on your wrist and gently rub it in. If your skin reacts within 48 hours, you may be allergic—avoid this remedy!

Stinging nettle

Another traditional remedy, stinging nettle, is highly effective for promoting healthy and strong hair. It is rich in essential vitamins and minerals and helps reduce dandruff while regulating sebum production on the scalp.

You can find shampoos and serums enriched with nettle extract in stores. However, you can also prepare your own hair treatment. Simply steep stinging nettle leaves in hot water and let them cool. Use this infusion as a rinse after shampooing.

An alternative method is to mix stinging nettle powder with water to create a paste. Use this mixture as a hair mask: apply it to your scalp with a gentle massage and leave it on for 30 minutes before rinsing.

As with onion juice, it’s advisable to test for allergies before applying stinging nettle to your scalp. Perform a patch test on your wrist.

Green tea

Widely known for its detoxifying properties, green tea is also beneficial in hair care. Rich in antioxidants, it helps cleanse the scalp, strengthen hair, and stimulate growth. To promote hair regrowth with green tea, pour a cup of cold green tea over your hair as a rinse after shampooing.

Aloe vera

Aloe vera offers numerous benefits. It is hydrating and packed with essential vitamins and minerals. It nourishes the scalp, improves hair health, and slows down hair loss.

Scalp massages

Finally, scalp massage is an excellent way to combat hair loss. It boosts blood circulation in the scalp, ensuring that essential nutrients and oxygen reach the hair follicles, strengthening and revitalizing the hair.

Additionally, scalp massages help reduce other factors that contribute to hair loss, such as stress, anxiety, muscle tension, and sleep disturbances.

If none of these natural remedies work, you may need to consider a surgical procedure, such as a hair transplant. Consult your doctor for advice.