When you first realize that your are balding…

the natural reaction for many is to search for any and all information related to hair loss (usually on the internet) looking for a “cure”.

While the net can be a great place to find support and information, there are also dubious products, false claims and misinformation made by some companies that sell remedies. Before you panic trying to decide what’s your best solution, here are some common myths often presented as fact:

Myth No. 1: Hair loss is caused by brushing the hair too much.

Fact: Brushing the hair when it is wet can result in breakage, but does not result in hair loss. In fact, brushing with a boar bristle brush actually improves circulation to the scalp which can aid in hair growth!

Myth No. 2: Wearing hats causes premature balding.

Fact: The hair grows from the inside out: it gets all of the oxygen it needs from the bloodstream. Wearing a hat does not contribute to hair loss in any way.

Myth No. 3: The “balding gene” comes from the mother’s side of the family.

Fact: Balding can be hereditary, but will depend on the genetics of both the mother and father.

Myth No. 4: Massaging the scalp does not help hair growth.

Fact: Massage is an integral part of any treatment for hair loss. Without proper circulation, hair growth cannot be restored.

To get the real goods on balding and your what your options are,

check out websites with “dot-org” domains, they are typically non-profit Industry Groups or Educational in nature and have nothing to sell you.

Here are some good places to start looking for quality information;

– North American Hair Research Society – http://www.nahrs.org/home/

– The American Hair Loss Association – http://www.americanhairloss.org/

– Canadian Hair Research Foundation – http://www.hairinfo.org/en/brochures/brochures.html

– National Alopecia Areata Foundation – http://www.naaf.org/

– The International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery – http://www.ishrs.org/hair-loss/hair-loss-male.htm

Of course information is no substitute for a medical diagnosis. Hair loss can be a symptom of underlying medical conditions that may need attention and there is no room her for self diagnosis. See your doctor or a dermatologist before you embark on any kind of program – it’s the best (and safest) start to any hair loss treatment.