hair and nails

The effect of a diet on the health of hair and nails

Proper nutrition plays a fundamental role in maintaining the health of hair and nails. These structures, consisting mainly of keratin, require the receipt of certain vitamins, minerals and amino acids for optimal growth, strength and appearance. The lack of nutrients can manifest itself in the form of brittle nails, thinning of hair, slow growth and other undesirable symptoms.

• Protein: The main building block of Keratin. The lack of protein in the diet can lead to a weakening of the structure of the hair and nails, making them more prone to damage. It is recommended to consume a sufficient amount of protein from sources such as meat, fish, eggs, legumes and tofu.
• Iron: It is necessary to transport oxygen to hair follicles and a matrix of the nail. Iron deficiency is often associated with hair loss and pallor of the nail bed. Sources of iron: red meat, spinach, lentils, seafood. For better assimilation of iron, it is recommended to use products rich in vitamin C.
• Zinc: Participates in the synthesis of protein and cellular division that are important for hair and nail growth. Zinc deficiency can lead to hair loss, slow growth of nails and the appearance of white spots on the nails (leikonichia). Sources of zinc: oysters, red meat, poultry, nuts, pumpkin seeds.
• Biotin (Vitamin B7): It is important for the metabolism of amino acids necessary for the production of keratin. Although the Biotin deficiency is rare, its disadvantage can lead to hair loss and fragility of nails. Sources of biotin: eggs, nuts, seeds, sweet potatoes.
• Vitamin C: An antioxidant that protects the hair and nails from damage caused by free radicals. It is also necessary for the synthesis of collagen, which strengthens the structure of hair and nails. Sources of vitamin C: citrus fruits, berries, pepper, broccoli.
• Vitamin D: He plays a role in hair growth and the functioning of hair follicles. Vitamin D deficiency is associated with hair loss. Sources of vitamin D: oily fish, egg yolks, enriched products, as well as the effects of sunlight.
• Omega-3 fatty acids: They support the health of the scalp and moisturize the hair, making it shiny and strong. They also help strengthen the nails. Sources of omega-3 fatty acids: fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines), flax seeds, walnuts, chia seeds.
• Silicon: Participates in the formation of collagen and strengthening the connective tissue, which helps to strengthen hair and nails. Silicon sources: oats, barley, brown rice, bananas, green vegetables.
• Water: Sufficient moisture is necessary to maintain the health of all tissues of the body, including hair and nails. Dehydration can lead to dryness and brittleness.

Genetics and health of hair and nails

The genetic predisposition plays a significant role in determining the structure, color and density of the hair, as well as the shape and strength of the nails. Some genetic factors can make a person more susceptible to hair loss (for example, androgenetic alopecia) or to certain nail diseases.

• Andogenetic alopecia: The most common form of hair loss due to the genetic sensitivity of hair follicles to dihydrotestosterone (DGT), a derivative of testosterone.
• Hair structure: Genes determine whether the hair will be straight, wavy or curly. The shape of the hair follicle affects the structure of the hair.
• Hair color: It is determined by the amount and type of melanin (pigment) in the hair. Various genes control the production of melanin.
• Hair density: Genes affect the number of hair follicles on the scalp.
• Form of nails: The shape of the nail bed and the growth rate of nails are also subject to genetic effects.
• A tendency to nail diseases: Some genetic mutations can increase the risk of certain diseases of the nails, such as nail psoriasis or onychomycosis (fungal infection of nails).

Although genetics cannot be changed, understanding of its genetic predisposition can help in taking preventive measures and choosing the proper care of hair and nails. For example, people with a genetic predisposition to androgenetic alopecia can begin treatment in the early stages to slow down the hair loss.

Hair care: types of hair and appropriate products

Proper hair care involves taking into account the type of hair and the use of suitable products. Different types of hair have different needs for moisturizing, nutrition and protection.

• Normal hair: Balanced moisture and production of sebum. Require regular cleansing and air conditioning.
• Dry hair: The disadvantage of moisture often looks dull and brittle. They require moisturizing shampoos and air conditioners, as well as hair masks.
• Bold hair: Excessive production of sebum, look fat and quickly polluted. They require shampoos for oily hair and frequent washing.
• Combined hair: Fat at the roots and dry at the ends. They require shampoos for combined hair and moisturizers for tips.
• Thin hair: Easy to lose volume and look flat. They require volumetric shampoos and air conditioners, as well as avoiding heavy oils and creams.
• Thick hair: Dense and thick, but can be dry and difficult to give way. Demand moisturizing and smoothing products.
• Dyed hair: They are subjected to chemical effects and require special care to maintain color and moisturize. Require shampoos and air conditioners for dyed hair.
• Damaged hair: They are subjected to thermal or chemical effects and require recovery. They require restorative shampoos and air conditioners, as well as hair masks and oils.
• Curly hair: Prone to dryness and confusion. They require moisturizing shampoos and air conditioners, as well as funds for the formation of curls.

It is important to choose hair products that do not contain aggressive sulfates, parabens and silicones that can dry and damage the hair. The regular use of hair masks, oils and heat protection products will help maintain the health and beauty of the hair.

Nail care: hygiene rules and disease prevention

Proper nail care includes maintaining hygiene, regular moisture and damage protection. Incorrect care can lead to brittleness, stratification and fungal infections.

• Regular hygiene: Washing hands with soap and water several times a day. Thorough cleaning under the nails.
• Correct nail haircut: The haircut of the nails is straight, without rounding of the corners to prevent nails.
• Moisturization: Regular application of moisturizer or oil on the hands and nails, especially after washing hands.
• Damage protection: The use of gloves when performing homework and working with chemicals.
• Avoiding aggressive means: Limiting the use of varnish remedies containing acetone that can dry the nails.
• Correct removal of the cuticle: Do not cut the cuticle, as it protects the nail bed from infections. Put the cuticle with a soft tool after a shower or bath.
• Regular breaks in varnish: Let the nails take a break from the varnish so that they can breathe and recover.
• Using a base for varnish: Applying a base for varnish protects the nails from pigmentation and strengthens them.
• Avoiding artificial nails: Artificial nails can damage natural nails and increase the risk of fungal infections.

Hair diseases: causes, symptoms and treatment

There are many diseases that can affect hair health. It is important to know the causes, symptoms and methods of treating the most common of them.

• Alopecia (hair loss):
  • Andogenetic alopecia: Genetic predisposition to hair loss associated with digidrotestosterone (DGT). Treatment: minoxidil, finsterida, laser therapy, hair transplant.
  • Focal alopecia: Autoimmune disease causing hair loss with spots. Treatment: corticosteroids, minoxidil, immunotherapy.
  • Telegnum alopecia: Temporary hair loss caused by stress, illness, childbirth or medication. Treatment: elimination of causes, vitamins and minerals, balanced diet.
  • Traction alopecia: Hair loss caused by constant hair tension (for example, when wearing tight hairstyles). Treatment: avoiding tight hairstyles, a change in the style of hair styling.
• Dandruff (seborrheic dermatitis): A skin disease that causes peeling of the scalp. Treatment: shampoos with ketoconazole, selenium sulfide, zinc pyrithion.
• Psoriasis of the scalp: A chronic autoimmune disease causing the appearance of red, peeling spots on the scalp. Treatment: topical corticosteroids, salicylic acid, phototherapy.
• Folliculite: Inflammation of the hair follicles caused by a bacterial or fungal infection. Treatment: antibiotics, antifungal drugs.
• Trichotillomania: A mental disorder characterized by intrusive hair pulling out. Treatment: psychotherapy, antidepressants.

When any hair problems appear, it is recommended to consult a trichologist to diagnose and prescribe adequate treatment.

Nail diseases: causes, symptoms and treatment

Various diseases can affect the nails, leading to a change in their appearance, shape and structure.

• Onychomycosis (fungal nail infection): The most common nail disease caused by fungi. Symptoms: thickening of the nail, color change (yellow, brown, white), fragility, stratification. Treatment: antifungal drugs (local and oral).
• Paroniyies: Inflammation of the tissues around the nail caused by a bacterial or fungal infection. Symptoms: redness, swelling, pain, pus. Treatment: antibiotics, antifungal drugs, abscess drainage.
• Nail psoriasis: The manifestation of psoriasis on the nails. Symptoms: point recesses on the nails, thickening of the nail, color change, peeling of the nail from the nail bed (onycholysis). Treatment: topical corticosteroids, vitamin D3, phototherapy.
• Leikonichia: White spots or stripes on the nails. Reasons: injury, zinc deficiency, allergic reaction. Treatment: usually not required, passes independently.
• Oniholisis: Removing the nail from the nail bed. Reasons: injury, fungal infection, psoriasis, medication. Treatment: elimination of causes, antifungal drugs, protection of the nail.
• Angled nail: The creep of the nail in the soft tissues of the finger. Reasons: improper nail haircut, wearing tight shoes. Treatment: the correct haircut of nails, baths with salt water, surgical removal.
• Yellow nail syndrome: A rare disease, characterized by thickening and yellowing of nails, lymphatic and respiratory problems. Treatment: symptomatic.
• Bo Lines: Horizontal recesses on the nails. Reasons: illness, stress, medication. Treatment: usually not required, pass on their own.

When any changes on the nails appear, it is recommended to consult a dermatologist for diagnosis and prescribing treatment.

The effect of stress on the health of hair and nails

Chronic stress has a negative effect on all body systems, including hair and nails.

• Hair loss: Stress can lead to heterogene alopecia, when more hair goes into the falling phase.
• Slow down hair and nail growth: Stress can suppress the growth of hair and nails, making them more thin and brittle.
• Fitty nails: Stress can weaken the structure of the nails, making them more susceptible to breakdown and stratification.
• Trichotillomania: Stress can provoke or aggravate trichotilomania (intrusive hair pullation).
• Brooksism (grinding with teeth): Stress can cause bruxism, which can lead to damage to nails (when biting nails).
• Psoriasis and eczema: Stress can worsen the symptoms of skin diseases such as psoriasis and eczema, which can affect the scalp and nails.

Reducing the level of stress using relaxation techniques (meditation, yoga, breathing exercises), physical exercises and sufficient sleep can help improve the health of hair and nails.

Hormonal changes and health and nails

Hormonal changes associated with pregnancy, menopause, thyroid diseases and other conditions can have a significant effect on the health of hair and nails.

• Pregnancy:
  • Hair: During pregnancy, the estrogen level increases, which leads to an increase in the phase of hair growth and a decrease in loss. After childbirth, the estrogen level drops sharply, which can lead to heterogene alopecia (hair loss).
  • Nails: During pregnancy, nails can grow faster and become more durable.
• Menopause: A decrease in estrogen levels in menopause can lead to thinning of the hair, dry scalp and fragility of nails.
• Thyroid diseases:
  • Hypothyroidism (insufficient thyroid function): It can lead to hair loss, dry skin, fragility of nails and slowing down their growth.
  • Hyperthyroidism (excessive function of the thyroid gland): It can lead to hair loss and thinning of nails.
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCU): It can lead to hirsutism (excessive hair growth on the face and body), hair loss on the head and acne.

Correction of hormonal balance under the control of a doctor can help improve the condition of hair and nails.

Professional procedures to improve hair health

There are many professional procedures that can help improve the health and appearance of the hair.

• Mesotherapy: The introduction of vitamins, minerals and amino acids into the scalp to stimulate hair growth and improve their quality.
• Plasmolifting (PRP therapy): The introduction of blood plasma enriched with platelets into the scalp to stimulate hair growth and reduce loss.
• Laser therapy: Using a laser to stimulate hair follicles and improve hair growth.
• Keratin straightening: Hair straightening procedure using keratin.
• Hair lamination: Hair coating with a special composition to give them shine and protection against damage.
• Hair extension: Attaching artificial hair to natural to increase length and volume.

It is important to choose qualified specialists and take into account possible risks and side effects during professional procedures.

Professional procedures to improve nail health

There are also a number of professional procedures aimed at improving health and appearance of nails.

• Medical pedicure: Professional care for feet and nails, including the removal of corn, corns and treatment of fungal infections.
• Strengthening nails with gel or acrylic: Coating nails with gel or acrylic to strengthen and protect against damage.
• Restoration of the nail plate: Procedures aimed at restoring damaged nails after removing artificial nails or injuries.
• Paraphinotherapy: Applying a warm paraffin to the arms and legs to moisturize the skin and improve blood circulation.

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