There is no end to the array of misconceptions and false assertions – from folk remedies to internet memes and beyond – surrounding the subject of hair loss. Believe it or not, even the topic of music has been questioned in relation to hair loss… and it’s not a new consideration.
Back in 1896, for instance, Scientific American published a study stating that playing brass instruments (like the tuba or trombone) caused baldness in the musicians playing them. In more modern times, Moby blames his time as a rave DJ in the 90s for his own hair loss.
But how likely are those assertions?
Can Rock Music Decrease Hair Loss?
Rock music doesn’t directly impact hair loss, but it can affect other things that do. Stress is frequently an underlying cause of hair loss, and music often reduces stress. Oddly enough, one variety of music that is exceptional at stress reduction is not what most people would expect: Heavy Metal.
The UK tabloid The Daily Star mentions a link between rock and staving off hair loss. However, its article is based on the fact that fans of rock music tend to have less hair loss than fans of other genres… which seems to be a case of correlation being confused with causation.
How Do Rockstars Keep Their Hair?
Hair has always been a major part of the rockstar image. In most cases, usually long or styled in an eye-catching manner. As can be easily seen looking at the surviving big names of the classic rock era, a lot of these rock stars seem to have retained their wild manes.
However, there are many more that suffer hair loss. Frank Black of The Pixies, Tom Morello of Rage Against The Machine, and The Edge from U2 are among the many musicians who have lost (or are losing) their hair. Elton John has also been open about having had a hair transplant.
So, despite seeming otherwise, rock stars seem to suffer hair loss at the same rates as the average human.
Do Headphones Cause Hair Loss?
Headphones don’t exactly cause hair loss but could contribute to the problem in one of two ways. For example, headphones could be a factor in conditions such as stress that do cause hair loss. Of course, on the flip side, if used to listen to soothing music, to aid meditation, or to help tune out background noise that’s annoying… headphones could help with stress management instead.
In addition, if you’re not careful with them, headphones and headsets can cause traction alopecia. That’s a form of hair loss caused by sustained tension on the hair strands. Typically, it’s caused by too-tight hairstyles worn over and over again but hats and even headphones can cause traction alopecia if they consistently pull on your hair strands, damaging hair follicles. If caught quickly, traction alopecia can often be reversed.
So, in terms of Moby’s assertion mentioned above that rave culture contributed to his hair loss, he might be partially correct. He cites the stress and hectic pace he maintained back then. Bad headphone use could have caused traction alopecia on top of that. If he also had the genetic tendency toward hair loss then all three factors could have combined to create his current baldness.
RHRLI Is Your Best Ally in the Battle Against Hair Loss
At RHRLI, we understand that each case is unique and demands specifically tailored care. We also utilize the most advanced technologies available, ranging from non-invasive methodologies to our cutting-edge ARTAS® Robotic Hair Transplant System. Combined with our team’s expertise we are ready and able to help you get back on the road to a full and vibrant head of hair. Contact us today for a free consultation!