Hair Care in India: Hair Fall Causes, Washing Routine, Oils, Nutrition and When to See a Dermatologist

Hair fall worries almost everyone at some point. Indian weather, hard water, pollution, stress, diet and genetics all play a part. The first step is knowing what is normal, what is a sign of a problem and which common habits help or hurt. This guide gives you a practical routine and a clear idea of when to see a doctor.

This article is general health information, not medical advice. Speak to a qualified doctor or registered dietitian about your own situation, especially if you have a medical condition or take medicines.

What is normal?

Losing around 50 to 100 hairs a day is typical, because hair grows in cycles and sheds naturally. It is more worrying if you see sudden heavy shedding, a widening parting, bald patches, receding hairline, or much thinner ponytails.

Common causes of hair fall

A simple washing routine

1. Wash two to three times a week for most people, more often if your scalp is oily or you sweat a lot, or live in a dusty city.
2. Use a gentle shampoo suited to your scalp, and focus on cleaning the scalp, not the lengths.
3. Use conditioner on the lengths, not the scalp.
4. Rinse with lukewarm water. Very hot water can dry the scalp and hair. If you have hard water, a final rinse with filtered water helps, and see our water purifier guide.
5. Pat dry gently. Avoid rubbing wet hair, as it is fragile.
6. Comb with a wide-tooth comb, starting from the ends.

Oiling: what it does and does not do

Coconut, sesame, almond and other oils can reduce friction and protein loss in the hair shaft, and a head massage feels relaxing and may improve scalp circulation. There is little evidence that oil makes hair grow faster or cures hair fall. If you oil, apply a small amount for an hour or two before washing, rather than overnight, if you have dandruff or an oily scalp, because heavy oil can feed yeast and clog the scalp.

Eat for your hair

• Protein: hair is mostly keratin. Include dal, eggs, paneer, curd, fish or chicken daily. See protein foods.
• Iron: leafy greens, legumes, jaggery in moderation, dates, meat, with vitamin C foods such as lemon or amla to aid absorption.
• Zinc and healthy fats: nuts, seeds, flaxseed, fish.
• Vitamin D and B12: get tested and supplement only if low. See vitamin D.
• Avoid crash dieting and very low protein diets, which commonly trigger shedding.

Dandruff and scalp care

Dandruff is often caused by an overgrowth of a yeast on the scalp. Shampoos containing ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, selenium sulphide, or salicylic acid, used as directed, help. Do not scratch aggressively. If your scalp is red, painful, oozing or has thick scaly patches, see a dermatologist.

Habits that damage hair

• Frequent heat styling, rebonding and bleaching.
• Tight ponytails, braids and hair extensions that pull the roots.
• Sharing combs and towels, which spreads infections.
• Smoking, poor sleep and constant stress. See sleep tips.

Treatments to discuss with a dermatologist

• Minoxidil for pattern hair loss, which works only while you use it.
• Finasteride or dutasteride for men, which need a prescription and counselling about side effects. Not for use in pregnancy.
• Platelet-rich plasma and other procedures, whose evidence is mixed and costs high.
• Hair transplant, for stable pattern baldness, done only by a qualified surgeon.

Be careful with "miracle" oils, supplements and clinics promising guaranteed regrowth.

When to see a doctor

See a dermatologist or doctor if hair fall lasts more than three months, there are bald patches, an itchy or painful scalp, sudden heavy shedding, or other symptoms such as fatigue, weight change, irregular periods or acne. A blood test for ferritin, thyroid, vitamin D and B12 is often the right first step.

Frequently asked questions

How many hairs fall daily?

Around 50 to 100 is typically normal.

Does oiling prevent hair fall?

It can reduce damage and feels nice, but there is little evidence that it stops hair fall or boosts growth.

How often should I wash my hair?

Two to three times a week for many people, more often if your scalp is oily.

Which tests are useful for hair fall?

Ferritin, thyroid tests, vitamin D and B12, as advised by a doctor.

Do supplements help?

Only if you are deficient. Excess supplements can be harmful.

Is hair fall reversible?

Many causes, such as deficiencies and stress shedding, are reversible once treated.

Last reviewed 8 November 2026. Rates, limits and rules change, so confirm figures with the official source before you act.