Natural blondes are hard to come by. In fact, only about 2% of the global population is blonde. That is in large part because blonde hair originated from a genetic mutation more than 10,000 years ago and is connected to a recessive gene. Some false reports have claimed that blondes will be extinct by the 23rd century, but recessive genes don’t just disappear so expect blondes to stick around for many centuries to come.
Many blondes, the same as their non-blonde counterparts, wonder about ways to avoid hair loss or look for early signs to try and deal with it sooner than later. We know that factors like genetics play a role in hair loss, so does being a natural blonde factor into our chances of experiencing balding or hair thinning?
Why Is Blonde Hair So Thin?
You may have heard that naturally blonde hair is thinner than other color hair. It’s actually a scientific fact that blonde hair is thinner. While non-blonde hair tends to have a scalp density of around 100,000 strands of hair, blonde hair averages at about 140,000 strands of hair… that’s a big difference. It’s that higher hair density that makes blonde hair thinner than other natural colors. This is why people with blonde hair may experience more thinning hair than those with other hair colors.
Is Blonde Hair More Fragile?
Blonde hair is in fact more fragile than other hair. Since blonde hair is finer, it is more prone to damage including breakage and thinning. Hair is more susceptible to breakage when wet, so avoiding heat styling is recommended. A wide-tooth comb is also easier on your hair than a brush. And avoid oil-based styling products as thinner, more fragile hair ends up flattening out and looking greasy in those instances.
Are Blondes More Likely To Lose Hair?
Yes and no. While just being a natural blonde by itself isn’t going to increase your chances of losing your hair, having thinner hair makes you more vulnerable to certain kinds of hair loss like traction alopecia.
Because finer hair is more easily damaged, repeatedly pulling it into tight hairstyles like buns or ponytails can cause enough damage and breakage to your hair where you’ll lose it in the affected areas. Even having long hair can cause traction alopecia just by the weight of your own hair tugging on your scalp.
RHRLI Is Ready To Help Restore Your Hair, No Matter It’s Natural Color
Being a blonde doesn’t affect your potential to be affected by male or female pattern baldness. If you’re experiencing any form of hair loss, the professionals at RHRLI are here to help.
Our own Dr. Baiju Gohil is a board-certified hair transplant surgeon servicing the greater NYC with years of experience. RHRLI can give you an evaluation and determine what approach to hair restoration is right for you; everything from non-surgical approaches to our ARTAS® robotic hair restoration. Contact RHRLI today and restore your hair and your confidence.