The human body is on average 55-60% water. Staying hydrated is an important part of maintaining your personal health… and that includes your hair.
When we go without water, our bodies automatically ration it so the most important parts – like the brain, kidneys, liver, and your digestive system – can all keep functioning. This means your skin and hair are among the first areas to feel the effects of dehydration, leading to hair damage and loss.
Does Hydration Help Hair Growth?
Drinking enough water allows the body to perform its necessary functions. Therefore, by staying hydrated, you allow the body and your hair to function to the best of their abilities. That means your hair will grow instead of becoming dry and brittle.
Can Proper Hydration Reverse Hair Loss?
If dehydration is the only thing causing hair loss, then getting enough water should help reverse the hair loss. Coffee, sodas, and other sources of caffeine can all contribute to dehydration. So be sure to drink a glass of water for every caffeinated beverage you consume.
After correcting your hydration habits, your hair growth patterns should return to normal. Though it might take a few months to become obvious, due to the way hair grows. But you should always take any concerns you may have to a qualified professional.
What Hydrates Hair?
Water within and without is about all you need, but there are also certain oils (like coconut oil) that can help as well. Coconut oil has actually been found to strengthen hair fiber. Hair oiling as a practice massages oils throughout your hair in order to improve scalp health, moisturize, and improve overall hair health.
While hydrating is great, it’s important not to overdo it. Washing and shampooing your hair too frequently can strip your hair of its natural oils – damaging your hair and causing it to become brittle.
Does Drinking More Water Thicken Your Hair?
The ability for your hair to retain moisture can vary from person to person and within different climates. But maintaining your daily hydration is the first step in caring for your hair no matter where you are. Hair thickness is generally influenced by genetics and other factors like hormones or age.
How Much Water Should I Drink a Day for Hair Growth?
You’ve likely heard that you should be drinking anything from 8-12 cups (or three liters) of water a day. But the truth is these are rough guidelines, and the actual amount can vary depending on several factors.
According to the University of Missouri System, you should be drinking a number of ounces of water equal to half your body weight and adding another 12 ounces for every 30 minutes worth of exercise you plan on doing. Of course, there are extenuating circumstances like pregnancies or health conditions that can affect how much water you need.
Environment can also affect your recommended water consumption. Sweating on hot summer days leads to increased hydration needs… but dry winter air could also contribute to greater water consumption to keep your nose, throat, and sinuses operating well.
Does Drinking Water Improve Hair Growth?
The effects of water on hair varies as all people are different, but proper hydration is certainly a step toward having healthy hair growth. When your body is properly hydrated it can support the hair’s natural growth cycle. Drinking an excess of water beyond what your body needs isn’t likely to have any impact on hair growth.
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