Hair falling out? Air pollution may be the cause

If you have noticed that your hair is falling out a lot, chances are your shampoo or conditioner may not be the real villains of this condition. Scientists presented the result of a study where they found a link between pollution exposure and hair loss. The presentation was held at the 28th Congress of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, which took place in Spain.

The study was carried out from the analysis of pollution particles in hair growth and hair regeneration. The researchers exposed the cells present in human scalp hair follicles to dust concentrations containing particulate matter of 10 micrometers or less (PM10).

More pollution, less hair

It was observed that the presence of PM10 and diesel particles decreased beta-catenin - an essential protein for hair follicle formation - and three other important proteins for hair maintenance and growth. Exposure levels were directly linked to the amount of loss, ie: more pollutants resulted in a greater protein decrease.

Particulate matter is a mixture of solid particles and droplets found in air. Among its sources are the burning of fossil fuels and solid fuels.

A striking detail is that the smaller the particle of pollution, the more dangerous they are, as they can pass through the human body more easily. Researchers report that the effects of PM on human health are of major concern, as they not only weaken the hair, but also increase the risk of cancer and cardiovascular and respiratory diseases.

"While it is difficult to escape environmental pollution, limiting time walking on busy streets, especially during rush hour, should help reduce exposure, " a team spokesman suggested in an interview with IFL Science .