Expats complain of experiencing severe hair loss after relocating to UAE; water is not the reason, say experts

DUBAI: Several expatriates are complaining that they are experiencing severe hair fall after arriving in the UAE. Most people cite heat, water, and constantly living under the air conditioner as the reason behind hair loss. However, experts are saying there is no scientific evidence to prove that expatriates experience more hair loss in the UAE than in their motherland.

According to Dermatology and Cosmetology specialist Dr Hussain Abdelrazik of Burjeel Day Surgery Centre, climate change, stress and lifestyle changes can be the reasons why expats are experiencing more hair loss in the UAE. Switching from home-cooked meals to fast food causes changes in the epigenome. Dr Hussain added that high levels of sugar and unhealthy fats found in processed foods can cause genetic changes that can lead to excessive hair loss.

"The epigenome is a system of chemical compounds and proteins. It can bind to DNA. It can also control the genetic system without changing the sequence of DNA. Unhealthy epigenome functions contribute to hair loss. Unhealthy dietary patterns, stress, and lifestyle changes can also influence the epigenome," he added.

Dr Nagla Ramsi, a dermatologist at Prime Hospital said that issues such as work pressure, unhealthy diet and mental health can also contribute to hair loss.

"Several expatriates complain of increased hair loss after arriving in the UAE. However, the main reasons for this are the pressure of entering a new job, the difficulty of being away from family, moving to a new environment, and unhealthy eating habits," Dr Ramsi said.

"People with vitamin deficiency should take supplements. Controlling diseases, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a healthy diet, reducing stress, applying hair serum to stimulate hair growth, improving blood circulation in the scalp, and consulting a dermatologist are other effective measures to reduce hair loss," Dr Ramsi added.