How To Stop Hijabi Hair Loss Naturally

If you're a 'Hijabi' like me, (a woman that wears a headscarf every day), you'll know that hair-care is not always top priority.

In all the rigmarole of finding an outfit and getting dressed, who has time for hair maintenance?

The headscarf itself shouldn't be blamed for hair loss as there is beauty and piety in following this Islamic dress-code. Allah tells Muslims, "wrap [a portion of] their headcovers over their chests" (Quran, 24:31)

But there is a trend in Hijabis who consistently wear headscarves with increased hair loss or thinning.

Beauty industries and hair salons in Muslim predominant countries haven't picked up on Hijabi-hair treatments yet - or maybe they have? Share their products in the comments.

Fortunately, there are several effective methods, ranging from homemade remedies to over-the-counter pharmaceutical treatments, that can help minimise hair loss while maintaining the Hijab.

Note: there are varying Muslim views on a woman's hair length, and unlike a Muslim man's beard, there's much more flexibility in styling, cutting and maintaining this personal look.

7 ways for Hijabis to combat hair loss naturally:

1. Balanced Diet - eat your health! 🍎

It's obvious yet has to be mentioned - a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals is crucial for healthy hair growth. Biotin, Vitamin E, B12 and Vitamin D are particularly important for maintaining strong hair.

Try to incorporate foods such as eggs, nuts (almonds, flax seeds, walnuts), leafy greens (spinach, bok choy, arugala, kale), and fatty fish (salmon, herring, cobia) into your diet to ensure you're getting an adequate intake of these nutrients.

2. Herbal Treatments - that do work 🌵

Herbal remedies like aloe vera, onion juice, rosemary oil and fenugreek seeds have been shown to promote hair growth and reduce hair loss.

• Aloe vera has soothing properties that can nourish the scalp.
• METHOD: for plant owners, snap off and strip open an aloe leaf to reveal the sticky clear gel inside. Scoop into a bowl with any combination you prefer - with 2 tablespoons of coconut oil, or apple cider vinegar, or 2 tablespoons of olive oil or fenugreek (below) and apply with your hands to your scalp. Leave for 30mins then rinse.

• Onion juice is rich in sulphur, which stimulates hair follicles.
• METHOD: blend a few onions until pulped and squeeze out the liquid. I'd be doing this for every meal prep now(!) Apply twice daily to your hair and rinse out for at least a month for results. Onion water can be bought in spray bottles too. It doesn't leave a smell.

• Rosemary oil or rosemary extract has always been talked about in homeopathic and now dermatologist circles for its hair stimulating properties. You can even research clinical studies from the last 5 years that show rosemary oil significantly increases hair growth.
• METHOD: it's a hassle making oil at home in my opinion so a store bought bottle from a local supplier sounds reasonable. Use a dropper to apply directly onto your scalp. Use a derma roller - a scalp needle roller that looks like a mini brush - all over your scalp to penetrate the oil deeper. Wash out the next day. Use daily for a few months for results.

• Fenugreek seeds contain proteins and nicotinic acid, which strengthen hair roots and prevent breakage. This is a classic Indian/Pakistani treatment we were taught from childhood.
• METHOD: the seeds need to release their good stuff so soak 4 heaped tablespoons in a cup of water overnight. Drain and use a carrier oil like almond oil to quickly whisk the water and emulsify (fenugreek contains lecithin). Apply to scalp daily until it runs out and prepare again. Do this for a few months to see results.

3. Scalp Massage - yes please 🤯

Regular scalp massages can improve blood circulation to the hair follicles, promoting hair growth and reducing hair loss. They feel bloody good too!

Natural oils such as coconut oil, almond oil, or olive oil are the best for a scalp massage to moisturise and strengthen the hair shaft.

Head scalping prongs can be bought from most grocery stores, pharmacies - I'm thinking Boots, Superdrug and... Home Bargains.

4. Pharmacy Treatments - think twice 💊

If it's time to get more serious, over-the-counter treatments like minoxidil can be an option. 

Minoxidil works by widening the hair follicles, allowing for thicker hair growth. It's important to follow the instructions carefully and be patient, as results may take several months to become noticeable.

Note: consult with your GP. Minoxidil is not prescribed in pill form in the UK. It can only be bought as a solution or foam. I'm not promoting this either, it's just an idea.

5. Stress Management - #LetItGo 👀

Oh my Allah, the stress! Stress can exacerbate hair loss and turn it white. But, alhamdulillah, right?

So finding ways to manage stress is crucial for maintaining healthy hair. Practice relaxation techniques such as Zikr, walks, cutting out toxic-relationships or deep breathing exercises to reduce stress levels and promote overall well-being. 

We're all about the mental health at the Eco Muslim but if you can't create boundary with a no-gooder person, how much poison will you take before you say 'no'(?)

6. Hijab Maintenance - The Biggy 🧕

While wearing a Hijab does not directly cause hair loss, improper care and styling techniques can actually contribute to hair weakening, breakage and thinning. Especially along your hair line. Ew.

Opt for lighter Hijab fabrics that are gentle on the hair, such as silk or satin, even cotton Hijabs are better than georgette/chiffon. Wear your long hair looser in buns or plaits or just leave shorter hair open and tuck into your top.

Also, avoid tying the hijab too tightly to prevent tension on the hair follicles.

Friction is not your friend. Always brush your hair to detangle and wear a bonnet cap to protect it. Regularly tip your head down to wave your hair out.

We all have bad Hijab days so try to keep your hair open or loose when at home.

7. Genetic Disposition - DNA, Daadke, Naanke, Allahu

After all is said and done, sometimes it's just the way Allah designed your head.

Genetics play a significant role in hair structure, porosity, texture and appearance, particularly in cases of receding hairlines. If you have a family history of hair loss, it's essential to be proactive in your hair care routine.

Maybe it's time to consult with a dermatologist or trichologist for more personalised advice and treatment options?

Maintaining healthy hair while wearing a Hijab is achievable with the right approach. 

Above all, a daily Dua and regular Wudu and Salah, is the best health plan you should be on.

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References: "Vitamins and Minerals for Hair Loss." Healthline.

"Efficacy of aloe vera extract cream in management of burn wound healing..." Indian J Exp Biol. 1996.

"Onion juice (Allium cepa L.), a new topical treatment for alopecia areata." J Dermatol. 2002.

"Fenugreek: A review on its nutraceutical properties and utilization in various food products." J Food Sci Technol. 2015.

"Efficacy and safety of a new 5% minoxidil formulation..." J Cosmet Dermatol. 2021.

Peace + eco-jihad.

Zaufishan,

The Eco Muslim

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