Hair loss is one of the most common concerns patients bring to our dermatologists, yet it’s also surrounded by countless myths. Many people blame hats, hair washing, or even poor circulation when they notice their hair thinning. The truth is that most of these “causes” are misconceptions, and believing them can delay proper treatment. At Borealis Dermatology, we want to clear up some of the confusion and separate fact from fiction when it comes to hair loss.
Q: Does wearing hats cause hair loss?
A: This is one of the most persistent myths. Wearing hats does not cause hair loss. Your hair follicles receive oxygen and nutrients through your blood supply beneath the scalp—not from the air. Unless a hat is extremely tight and pulling at the hair constantly (which is very rare), it won’t damage follicles or lead to balding. In fact, hats can actually protect your scalp from sun damage, which is important for both skin and hair health.
Q: Will washing or brushing my hair too much make it fall out faster?
A: Daily grooming can make it feel like you’re “losing” more hair, but what you see in the shower drain or on your brush is usually just natural shedding. Most people lose about 50–100 hairs per day as part of the normal growth cycle. Overly aggressive brushing or harsh shampooing can break fragile strands, but this is different from true hair loss. Using a gentle shampoo and a wide-toothed comb can help minimize breakage.
Q: Is it true that hair loss only happens as you age?
A: Not necessarily. While hair thinning is more common with age, especially after 40, hair loss can begin much earlier. Male and female pattern baldness can start as early as the late teens or twenties, depending on genetics. Medical conditions, stress, or hormonal changes can also trigger hair loss at any age. If you’re younger and notice unusual thinning, don’t ignore it—early intervention can make a big difference in treatment success.
Q: Can poor circulation to the scalp cause baldness?
A: This is another common misconception. Hair follicles are supplied by a rich network of blood vessels, and circulation is rarely the issue. The main drivers of hair loss are genetics, hormones, stress, medical conditions, and sometimes nutritional deficiencies. Massaging the scalp can increase temporary blood flow, which may improve scalp health and relaxation, but it won’t “cure” genetic baldness.
Q: Are all hair loss treatments the same?
A: No—this is where fact really matters. Not all products you see advertised online or in stores are proven to work. For example, minoxidil (topical foam or solution) and finasteride (oral medication for men) have been shown in studies to slow hair loss and promote regrowth. Treatments like PRP therapy and laser devices may also be effective for certain patients. On the other hand, shampoos, oils, or supplements that claim to “cure” baldness often lack scientific support. Talking to a board-certified dermatologist is the best way to find out which treatments are right for you.
The Bottom Line: Hair loss is a medical condition influenced by genetics, hormones, and overall health—not by hats, washing habits, or myths passed down over the years. If you’re concerned about thinning hair, don’t let misinformation hold you back. At Borealis Dermatology, we can evaluate the root cause of your hair loss and create a treatment plan tailored to you.
