A growing number of Hong Kongers in their twenties are noticing thinning hair, receding hairlines, and even bald patches—a trend that has prompted registered Chinese medicine practitioner Dr. Sofia Pang to shed light on the root causes and remedies. In an exclusive interview with UFood, Dr. Pang explains that hair loss is no longer a concern reserved for the elderly, and offers practical dietary advice, lifestyle changes, and a nourishing soup recipe to help restore healthy, thick hair.
How Much Hair Loss Is Normal?
It is natural to shed some hair every day as part of the body’s renewal cycle. According to Dr. Pang, losing up to 100 strands daily falls within the normal range. However, counting individual strands is impractical. A more reliable indicator is to observe hair fall during evening washing or blow-drying. If you notice more than 40 to 50 strands coming out at once, it may signal a problem worth addressing.
Early intervention is key. In mild cases, one or two rounds of herbal treatment or dietary adjustments can yield noticeable improvement. But if hair has already become visibly thin, or if an M-shaped hairline or bald spot has formed, recovery may take one to two months or longer. Severe cases warrant a prompt consultation with a professional.
Two Main Types of Hair Loss According to TCM
Dr. Pang categorizes hair loss into two primary types based on traditional Chinese medicine principles.
Deficiency-Related Hair Loss
This is the most common form and is closely tied to insufficient qi (vital energy) and blood, as well as weak kidney function. In TCM, hair is considered the “excess of blood”—meaning that healthy hair depends on adequate blood supply. When blood is deficient, hair becomes thin and prone to falling out. Similarly, the kidneys are said to “manifest in the hair.” Strong kidney function supports dark, lustrous hair, while kidney weakness often leads to premature graying and shedding.
Scalp-Related Hair Loss
This type stems from conditions affecting the scalp itself. Seborrheic dermatitis, for example, causes excessive oil production, leading to clogged pores, scalp acne, and inflammation that hinders hair growth. Eczema and other scalp inflammations can also damage hair follicles and accelerate loss.
Why Does Gray Hair Appear?
Gray hair is largely attributed to kidney deficiency. When kidney qi is abundant, hair remains dark and vibrant. As kidney function naturally declines—typically after age 30 to 40—gray hairs begin to emerge. Some individuals, due to genetics or congenital weakness, may experience premature graying even in their twenties.
Six Key Factors That Trigger Hair Loss
Dr. Pang identifies six major contributors to hair loss:
- Genetics: A hereditary predisposition to weak kidney function can lead to early thinning.
- Stress, fatigue, and sleep deprivation: Chronic overwork and lack of rest take a toll on hair health.
- Excessive alcohol consumption: Alcohol damages the liver and kidneys, increasing hair fall.
- Poor diet: Greasy and spicy foods stimulate excess scalp oil, clogging follicles.
- Hormonal imbalances: Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome or irregular menstruation can trigger hair loss in women.
- Crash dieting: Rapid weight loss and malnutrition starve hair follicles.
Gender Differences in Hair Loss Patterns
Men and women tend to lose hair in distinct areas. Men commonly experience thinning at the crown and receding at the temples, forming an M-shaped hairline. Hair loss at the back of the head is often linked to scalp conditions like eczema or acne. Women, on the other hand, typically notice thinning on the top of the scalp, often along the parting line—a pattern that may be aggravated by tight hairstyles.
Four Practical Prevention Strategies
Dr. Pang recommends the following steps to protect hair health:
- Use mild hair care products: Those with oily scalps should avoid heavy, moisturizing formulas that can exacerbate sebum production.
- Nourish the body through diet: Incorporate foods that support the liver, kidneys, and blood circulation.
- Limit spicy and fried foods: These can increase scalp oiliness and trigger breakouts.
- Massage the scalp: Gently tap the scalp with fingertips to stimulate blood flow, avoiding harsh pulling or rubbing.
Top Four Hair-Friendly Foods
Dr. Pang highlights several ingredients that are particularly beneficial for hair health:
- Red or black goji berries: Help nourish the liver and kidneys, promoting hair growth.
- Mulberries: Rich in nutrients that support blood production and hair vitality.
- Red dates (jujubes): Boost qi and blood, addressing deficiencies that lead to thinning.
- Black sesame seeds: Known for their ability to nourish the kidneys and darken hair, while strengthening roots.
Recipe: He Shou Wu Black Bean Chicken Soup
This soup is designed for those with significant hair loss due to liver and kidney deficiency. Pregnant women and individuals prone to diarrhea should use caution.
Ingredients: 10g processed he shou wu (Polygonum multiflorum), 20g black beans, 10g goji berries, one black-skinned chicken.
Instructions: Soak black beans for two hours. Chop the chicken into pieces. Combine all ingredients except goji berries in water and simmer for one hour. Add goji berries in the last five minutes.
What Lies Ahead
As hair loss becomes an increasingly common complaint among young adults in Hong Kong, experts like Dr. Pang emphasize that early detection and holistic care—rooted in traditional wisdom—can make a significant difference. By addressing underlying imbalances through diet, lifestyle changes, and targeted herbal remedies, many individuals may be able to reverse early-stage hair loss and restore their confidence. For those already experiencing significant thinning, professional guidance remains the most reliable path forward.