Separating fact from fiction can be challenging, especially when it comes to personal topics like hair loss. Misconceptions about hair loss are everywhere, and they often discourage people from seeking real solutions. In this post, we’re tackling eight common hair loss myths that might be holding you back from the confidence you deserve. Let’s dive in and separate myth from reality, helping you find the answers that truly support your hair restoration journey.
If you’ve ever wondered if your hair loss might reflect something about you beyond genetics, you’re not alone. But here’s the truth: There’s no scientific evidence linking intelligence to hair loss. The primary cause of male pattern hair loss—known as androgenetic alopecia—is influenced by genetics and hormones, not intelligence. While society sometimes perceives bald men as wise or intelligent, these impressions are just that—perceptions.
- Highly Intelligent People are More Likely to Go Bald
The “logic” behind this myth is that intellectual people think so much, their brain overheats the hair follicles—or there’s increased blood circulation through the scalp, thanks to all that active thinking just below. Another variation suggests that high-level thinkers worry more, causing their hair to fall out. There’s a grain of truth here, as stress can trigger temporary hair loss through a condition called telogen effluvium, but this has no connection to intelligence.
Bottom line: Hair loss is not a measure of intelligence. If you’re experiencing it and want to understand your options, Dr. Marco Barusco—Founder and Chief Medical Officer at Tempus Hair Restoration—is here to provide clarity and guidance based on over 25 years of expertise.
- Baldness is Inherited from Your Mother’s Side
For those wondering if genetics might hold the answer to their hair loss, know that this isn’t entirely true. While early genetic studies suggested balding was passed down through the maternal line, we now know that genes from both sides of the family can influence hair loss.
To put it simply, both parents contribute to the genes that determine hair loss potential. According to Harvard Medical School, “Contrary to the folk wisdom that baldness is inherited from one’s mother’s family, the condition depends on genes from both parents.”
Bottom line: Genetics play a role, but they’re not solely responsible. Dr. Barusco can help you understand the genetic factors that may be at play in your unique case, giving you a clearer picture of your hair restoration options.
- Too Much Exercise Causes Hair Loss
You may have heard that working out too much can cause hair loss. While it’s true that excessive, high-stress workouts might impact hair health, regular exercise does not cause hair loss—in fact, it can boost blood flow to the scalp, supporting healthy hair growth.
For those involved in extreme training, like competitive bodybuilding, there can be additional factors at play, such as anabolic steroid use and nutrient deficiencies, which can indeed contribute to hair loss. The key is balance, along with making sure you’re getting essential nutrients to support healthy hair.
Bottom line: Your workout routine isn’t to blame for hair loss unless it involves extreme factors. Want to learn more about how lifestyle choices impact your hair health? Dr. Barusco is here to provide expert insights tailored to you.
- Too Much Testosterone Causes Hair Loss
This myth has staying power, thanks to portrayals of high-testosterone athletes and action movie heroes with thinning hair. The reality, though, is that high testosterone levels don’t directly cause hair loss. Instead, genetics determine how sensitive your hair follicles are to androgens like dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a byproduct of testosterone.
If your follicles are sensitive to DHT, even small amounts can trigger hair loss. For those with this sensitivity, solutions are available that target DHT without compromising overall health.
Bottom line: It’s not about how much testosterone you have, but rather your genetic sensitivity to it. Dr. Barusco can help you understand how your genetics play a role in hair loss and what can be done to manage it.
- A High-Sodium Diet Causes Hair Loss
A high-sodium diet certainly isn’t great for overall health, but it doesn’t directly cause hair loss. Instead, an excess of sodium can contribute to high blood pressure, heart disease, and kidney problems—conditions that can affect your hair health over time by limiting nutrient delivery to the scalp.
Bottom line: For a healthy head of hair and a healthy you, a balanced diet is key. If you’re unsure how nutrition might be affecting your hair, Dr. Barusco can offer personalized advice as part of your hair restoration journey.
- Sleeping on One Side Causes Hair Loss
The idea here is that sleeping on one side puts pressure on those hair follicles, causing them to weaken over time. In reality, this isn’t something to worry about. Most people shift positions throughout the night, and hair growth patterns are largely genetically programmed.
Bottom line: Sleeping position has no effect on hair loss. Hair restoration is about working with your unique biology, and Dr. Barusco can help you understand your options based on your individual needs.
- Frequent Shampooing Causes Hair Loss
This myth likely stems from concerns about harsh shampoos and over-styling, which can cause hair to break. However, regular shampooing, especially with gentle products, actually supports scalp health by keeping follicles clear.
Bottom line: Enjoy the refreshing feel of a clean scalp, knowing it’s only helping—not hurting—your hair. Dr. Barusco can recommend the best care routine tailored to your hair and scalp type.
- Blocked Follicles Cause Hair Loss
This is perhaps the most persistent myth of all, with countless products on the market claiming to “unblock” follicles and restore hair growth. However, hair growth isn’t affected by external blockage of the follicles.
Dr. Barusco has addressed this in detail on his YouTube channel, Hair Loss Medical Advice, where he explains that hair grows even when follicles appear “blocked” by sebum or oil. Products that promise to reverse hair loss by cleansing follicles don’t actually target the biological mechanisms involved in hair loss.
Bottom line: Don’t let these claims fool you. Real solutions start with understanding the root causes of hair loss, and Dr. Barusco’s years of expertise make him the trusted choice to help you explore options that work.
When It’s Time to Get Real Answers
Hair loss is about more than just appearance—it can affect how we see ourselves and how we feel each day. At Tempus Hair Restoration, we’re committed to giving you the confidence that comes with knowing you have expert support on your side. With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Barusco provides personalized care for each client, ensuring that every step of the journey is crafted with your unique needs in mind.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re looking for answers to your specific hair loss questions, schedule your free virtual consultation with Dr. Barusco today. Consultations are available in English, Spanish, and Portuguese. And for out-of-town clients, we offer a complimentary two-night hotel stay for those traveling over 100 miles to our Port Orange, Florida, surgical center.
Take the first step toward restoring your hair and your confidence. Secure your consultation now—spots fill up quickly, and we’re here to make this journey as smooth and supportive as possible. Contact us today, and let’s start your journey together!