Hair Transplant Surgeon Explains How Air Pollution Triggers Hair Fall and Dandruff

Have you experienced a sudden hair loss after moving or travelling in a city with high air pollution? Or do you find your hair frizzy and severe dandruff every time you step out in a high air pollution zone? With the Air Quality Index (AQI) levels reaching 600 and 700 in metro cities like Delhi, Noida, and Gurgaon, air pollution is no longer just a hidden cause of hair pollution and scalp issues; it has turned into a severe problem for the hair, scalp and follicles.

Dr BL Jangid, a Dermatologist and Hair Transplant Surgeon at SkinQure Clinic, New Delhi, underlines how air pollution not only poses a serious health risk to lung health but also significantly impacts your scalp and hair. Read on to understand how air pollution is linked to hair loss and tips to prevent hair fall and dandruff caused by air pollution.

How Air Pollution Leads To Hair Fall

According to a study by the Polish Journal of Environmental Studies, continuous exposure to the particulate matter that constitutes air pollution can lead to accumulation on the scalp and hair. This prolonged exposure causes oxidative stress in the body, which leads to hair damage and scalp problems such as dermatitis.

Dr BL Jangid emphasises that Long-term exposure to environmental pollution, mainly airborne pollutants such as particulate matter (PM 2.5), can trigger hair loss. He states, “Pollutant particles such as dust, smoke, and other harmful chemicals such as sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides can settle on the scalp and hair strands, coating them with impurities. This can clog the follicles, reduce oxygen supply, and disrupt the normal secretion of oil, thereby impeding hair growth.”

Over time, this can weaken the roots, cause inflammation leading to weaker hair shafts, and ultimately promote hair shredding.

Also Read: Is Toxic AQI Leading to Non-Smokers' Lung Cancer Rise in India? Doctors React

Does Air Pollution Cause Dandruff?

Pollutants present in the air can negatively affect the scalp, leading to dandruff. Dr Jangid explains that the settling of pollutants on the scalp generates harmful molecules called free radicals, which damage follicle cells and can alter the hair growth cycle.

“These molecules weaken the hair and strip the scalp of essential nutrients important for the scalp, causing dryness and irritation. Constant oxidative stress due to pollution also alters scalp pH and sebum composition,” Dr Jangid shares. This creates a favourable environment where yeast (Malassezia) and irritation can flourish, resulting in flaking, itching and dandruff.

Also Read: Constantly Suffering from Dry Eyes? Doctor Explains How Air Pollution Could Be the Cause

Indoor Air Pollution Contributing to Hair Fall and Dandruff

Much like outdoor pollution, indoor air also influences hair growth and scalp health. Dr Jangid points out, “Invisible irritants like dust, cooking smoke, chemicals present in cleaning products settle on the scalp, clog hair follicles, which may disturb the scalp’s natural oil balance and trigger inflammation, leading to hair breakage, an itchy scalp, and dandruff.”

Symptoms of Air Pollution Trigger Hair Fall and Dandruff

Dr Jangid also shares a few symptoms one should look for to know the hair fall and dandruff caused by air pollution:

• Sudden split ends, hair breakage, and shedding
• An oily, Itchy scalp or Excessive dandruff
• Dull hair with reduced elasticity
• Premature greying resulting from oxidative stress

Tips to follow to prevent Hair Fall and Dandruff due to Air Pollution

• Rinse your hair using a light, sulfate-free shampoo to cleanse pollutants without stripping off the natural oils. Shampoo hair 2 to 3 times a week is considered enough. Those who have dandruff should use an anti-dandruff Shampoo to cleanse their hair and scalp.
• To lock the moisturiser, use a hydrating conditioner and hair masks with antioxidants.
• You can also gently exfoliate or massage your scalp to improve blood circulation and remove build-up.
• Apply a protective hair serum or leave-in antioxidant spray to reduce oxidative stress.
• When stepping outside, do not forget to wrap your hair with a scarf or a hat gently.
• Eat a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, Vitamins A, C, and E, and omega-3 to support scalp resilience.
• In case of severe hair fall, you should visit a certified dermatologist.

Also Read: Hair Fall After Oil Massage? Here’s What You’re Doing Wrong

The doctor will suggest the needed treatment, including topical medications, minimally invasive treatments like PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma therapy), Hair GFC (Growth Factor Concentrate), Hair mesotherapy or low-level laser therapies, depending on your hair health. This will accelerate hair growth and repair damage caused due to air pollution.

Bottomline

Fine particulate matter in air pollution is severely affecting scalp health, causing significant hair loss and dandruff. Doctors recommend minimising exposure to air pollution, along with timely and proper hair washing, and avoiding the use of harsh chemicals to maintain good hair health.