Scalp oxygenation plays a crucial role in maintaining good hair health. Below we explain how oxygenation works, its importance for hair growth, and the factors that can affect scalp oxygenation.
Oxygen supply to the scalp
The role of blood circulation
- Blood vessels in the scalp:
The scalp has a network of capillaries, small blood vessels, which supply the hair follicles with oxygen and nutrients. These capillaries deliver oxygen from the blood to the cells of the hair follicle by diffusion. Oxygen is carried in the blood by haemoglobin, which is a component of red blood cells. - Oxygen transport:
Oxygen is transported via the bloodstream from the lungs to the scalp. As the blood circulates through the capillaries on the scalp, oxygen and nutrients are released into the hair follicle. This process is essential for cellular energy production and metabolism in the hair follicles. - Energy production:
Oxygen is necessary for cellular respiration (aerobic respiration) and the production of ATP, which provides energy for cellular functions, including keratin production.
Structure of the hair follicle
- Dermal papilla:
At the base of each hair follicle is a structure called the dermal papilla, which is rich in blood vessels and plays a critical role in the hair growth cycle. It is in this part of the hair follicle that oxygen and nutrients are taken up from the blood and used to support active cell growth and division.
The importance of oxygen supply for hair growth
The hair growth cycle
- Anagena Fas:
This growth phase, which can last for years, requires an abundant supply of oxygen and nutrients to maintain active cell division and hair growth. The better the oxygen supply, the stronger and healthier the hair will be. - Catagenic and Telogen Phases:
The anagen phase is followed by the catagen (transitional) and telogen (resting) phases, during which hair follicle activity decreases. Despite the decrease in activity, oxygen supply is still important to maintain hair follicle health.
Cell metabolism
- Oxygen deficiency and cell health:
Lack of oxygen (hypoxia) can lead to reduced cell metabolism, which in turn can weaken the hair follicle and lead to hair loss or thinning hair. Optimal oxygen supply supports not only growth but also cell repair and maintenance.
Factors Affecting Scalp Oxygenation
Lifestyle and Environment
- Food:
A nutritious diet rich in iron, B vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids supports good blood circulation and oxygenation. Iron is particularly important because it helps haemoglobin transport oxygen efficiently. - Physical Activity:
Regular exercise improves blood circulation, which in turn increases the oxygen supply to the whole body, including the scalp. Aerobic exercises such as walking, running and cycling are particularly beneficial. - Smoking:
Smoking can reduce blood circulation and oxygen supply, which can negatively affect the health of hair follicles.
Health status
- Anaemia:
Low iron levels in the blood can lead to anaemia, which reduces the oxygen supply to body tissues, including the scalp. - Circulation problem:
Conditions that affect blood circulation, such as high blood pressure or atherosclerosis, can also reduce oxygen supply. - Skin diseases:
Skin diseases such as psoriasis and seborrhoeic dermatitis can affect blood flow and oxygen supply to hair follicles.
Treatments and massages
- Scalp massage:
Regular scalp massage can increase blood flow and oxygen supply to the hair follicles, which can promote hair growth. - Topical Treatments:
Some topical treatments can improve blood circulation on the scalp. Minoxidil, a medicine used to treat hair loss, works by dilating blood vessels and increasing blood flow. - Acid treatment:
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) to improve hair growth and hair health is a method that has become increasingly popular. There are different types of oxygen treatments that are designed to increase the oxygen supply to the scalp and thereby promote hair growth.
At Akacia Medical we offer oxygen therapy with Oxyhelp.
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