“According to a report, British women have been named the biggest binge drinkers in the world, with 26 percent consuming at least six drinks per month.
“Mass alcohol consumption has been linked to health issues such as heart disease, strokes, liver problems and even some cancers.
“Following the research, doctors are urging the government to introduce more stringent measures to reduce alcohol harm and help people cut back.
“While drinking alcohol won’t immediately affect your locks, it can affect hair health in the long-run.
“So, as Dry January comes to an end for many, here’s what cutting back on alcohol can do for your locks in the long-run…
Restore hydration
“As alcohol is a diuretic, it promotes water loss through sweating and urination, which can result in you becoming dehydrated.
“When you’re dehydrated, your mane suffers as there is an insufficient supply of water to the hair shaft and cells, causing your hair and scalp to become dry, making you prone to dandruff, breakage and split ends and, in some cases, even leading hair loss.
“By giving up drinking for a bit, you’re giving your locks a fighting chance to rehydrate and regenerate. Add a nourishing hair mask once or twice a week for an extra burst of moisture to give your hair the pamper it deserves.
Boost nutrients and stop hair loss
“To stay healthy, hair requires a continuous supply of nutrients, such as vitamins A, B, C and D, as well as Zinc, Biotin, Iron and Protein.
“However, according to several studies, excessive consumption of alcohol has been know to increase the risk of nutritional deficiencies as it reduces micronutrient absorption.
“Not only can a nutritional deficiency result in hair loss, but drinking might see you indulge in unhealthy food choices over food rich in vitamins and minerals.
“Take the time off to improve your diet by ensuring you’re eating foods rich in protein and iron, Omega-3, Vitamins A, C, & E, Biotin, Zinc, and Selenium – e.g. salmon, red meat, nuts and seeds, sweet potatoes, milk, eggs, leafy greens and plenty of fruit and veg.
“By filling your body with the essential nutrients, you can encourage strong regrowth and prevent future hair loss or weakness.
Stop premature ageing
“It’s no secret that alcohol is a common trigger for social smoking and has been found to increase the risk of hair loss and premature greying.
“Smoking will have a negative effect instantly on you and your peers, as studies reveal that ambient tobacco smoke exposure results in nicotine accumulation in hair follicles and the hair shaft.
“Meanwhile, inhaling nicotine can reduce the circulation of blood around the body, restricting oxygen needed for the scalp to help hair grow and also damage the DNA in our cells, which can affect the hair follicles at the root and interrupt the hair’s ability to produce melanin during its growth cycle.
“While you might not be influenced to smoke when drinking, it’s worth noting what alcohol-related social habits – or being around them – can do to your hair’s appearance.
“Preserve your hair’s natural pigment for longer by making other healthy lifestyle choices, such as limiting stress (when possible) and protecting it from the sun and pollutants.”
By Hair Expert Alice Dawkins of Milk + Blush
Small nutritional changes that will improve your overall health
