View Full Version : Thinking about chopping
HotRag
August 19th, 2010, 12:09 AM
I am thinking about chopping off to BSL.
My hair is sooo heavy. As soon as the summer warmth came along, I got itch and shedding doubled again.
I get obsessed, counting hairs, protecting ends and so on. Washing takes a long time since I have so dry hair and have to SMT every time.
My dermatologist says I could have atopic exzema or contact allergy. My scalp is red and hurts and itches. No flakes. My theories are the same, but I think scalp could be dry (using dandruff schampoo two times a week) and that the weight stresses the follicles.
I remember before I started to save this hair (I had BSL then).
- I could sleep with my hair out
- I trimmed every third month, never having to care for the ends
- I could wear it down with no problem and it looked nice.
- I never cared about exact amount of shedded hairs.
- I washed upside down and it was easy to detangle.
- Hair was not heavy.
Yesterday I came to think about the weight. I weighed my hair, and it weighed as much as a rather big glass full of water (including weight of the glass). How I do, I never can get the weight to distribute even. If it does, it starts to be uneven after some hour, making it pull more on one of the braids strings, or in the top of my head.
I tested to lift my braid, just holding it. It felt like taking a helmet off. The pain on my scalp started to get off. I put my braid on my shoulder for the rest of my day. This is correlating to the experience that scalp does not hurt at night.
I waited so long (2 years...) to have this hair, and I love long hair, but I don't know if I can stand all the side effects for me. It's so hard to know what is right to do. For my mind and life, I should cut I think, but how easy is that :( Hair and it's protection and care, is taking over my life (even when I decided to just forget about hairdos and S&D and just wear English braid - I still have to wash and sleep "correct"), and it is NOT getting better from a hurting scalp that gets better when lifting hair weight off my scalp.
Below is a pic of me when I was happy with hair and it was easy to handle (even 4 inches shorter than this was good, and I could make waves, cork screws and stuff to wear with just a barrette but I had no good pic):
http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/picture.php?albumid=1255&pictureid=79692
Please give me advice or input :(
ldc441
August 19th, 2010, 01:11 AM
How long is your hair if it's like really long cut to your mid back but i would say not to cut it to BSL because you might regret it or you could get it thinned out
McFearless
August 19th, 2010, 01:15 AM
What length are you at now?
Marjolein
August 19th, 2010, 01:24 AM
Well, if you have all these problems then I agree that you should seriously consider chopping some hair off. But perhaps you can start with a chop to the halfway point between where you are now and BSL? For many long-haired people chopping back to BSL seems te be a traumatic experience, that's why I suggest this.
.:Alma:.
August 19th, 2010, 01:44 AM
I can understand that having heavy hair is a challenge (you made me think about Princess Sissi), and I think that the most important thing is to feel good and enjoying your life.
The haircare routine for me is a chance to take some time for myself, time that the quick shower don't allow.
Braiding for the night is a moment of collecting toughts and letting the day soak off.
But if for you all of these thing are a source of stress, change. Feel free to live with lightness!
HotRag
August 19th, 2010, 01:58 AM
I am at 39" now. I think it grows rather slowly, and it grows even slower when I have those scalp problems.
I did chop longer hair off in 1998. I then had 50" and chopped to BSL. I remember my head felt very light. I did not regret then, but had other motives for cutting (wanting to do certain hairdos).
My BSL is 27 inches. The pic shows 27 inches or even shorter (I tilt a bit and have blunt ends, so it may look a bit longer).
I long for just wash and go, having my hair loose without problems and worries about tangling/damage. And that light head feeling. It was such a big difference when I lifted my braid. It is really heavy. I now never can wear my hair loose/down, since I don't want it to get damaged. It is also always windy here. Also, it gets in my way.
I feel like my hair is taking over my life. (And in the same time, I like long hair and the look of it when I take it down, or the look of the braid hanging over my shoulder. But the worries during more shedding and my scalp problem, is horrible, and I can't really handle that well at all.)
HotRag
August 19th, 2010, 02:09 AM
I can understand that having heavy hair is a challenge (you made me think about Princess Sissi), and I think that the most important thing is to feel good and enjoying your life.
The haircare routine for me is a chance to take some time for myself, time that the quick shower don't allow.
Braiding for the night is a moment of collecting toughts and letting the day soak off.
But if for you all of these thing are a source of stress, change. Feel free to live with lightness!
I felt like that also. Taking time for myself and that.
But now when sleeping, I cant turn without grabbing my braid, taking it with me around the turn. And it pulls and itch a bit also when sleeping (in other places than during the day).
When it was loose, it did not feel it at all. And it felt "airy" something I never feel now since I don't wear it loose.
And since the scalp problems that returned when the summer heat came, I do not longer have a nice time for myself when washing, I just worry about how many hairs I will shed and how much scalp will hurt after this wash.
I have very dry hair, so it is SMT and leave in conditioner every time (making hair even heavier maybe). I can never just wash and go if needed.
And, I am letting myself get obsessed about all this. I can't really handle it well.
Gaaah, what hard decision :(
Iylivarae
August 19th, 2010, 03:24 AM
How about you cut off a small part and see if you like it? And then maybe another small part?
I just have to say that I chopped off 10'' just this week, and I wasn't as happy with my hair as I am now for a loooong time.
If the long hair is more of a chore for you and actually gives you medically relevant scalp problems, I'd say cut it. Even if it's long.
freckles
August 19th, 2010, 04:12 AM
If your hair is a chore and is causing you pain and is no longer fun for you, I can see why you would want to cut it. Hair is for you, and is to be enjoyed -- if you are no longer enjoying it, chop. You're under no obligation to have super long hair, after all.
On the other hand, you say that you've waited so long for your hair, and you love it. Like Marjolein suggests, I think you should chop in a few stages rather than a dramatic chop back to BSL. Maybe back to hip, then if you still have the problems back to waist, and then if it's still troubling you, back to BSL. If you self-trim, you could do it even more slowly than that, by taking off something like an inch/two inches every month and 'testing' in between until you're happy with it, to find the exact 'happy medium' between long hair and a feasible routine.
Good luck in whatever you choose to do. :blossom:
cindy58
August 19th, 2010, 04:17 AM
I say give it a trim. If you like the effect, that would be great. If you feel you're missing some length, you can grow it back. In the meantime, enjoy the lightness.
I know that there are a lot of mixed feelings, and that it seems hard to make the transition to "maintaining" a length rather than growing longer and longer. I was about halfway between TB and classic, and I trimmed back to TB. It feels fine, and I don't really miss the length.
jasper
August 19th, 2010, 04:50 AM
To me, your hair is long and pretty in the happy picture. :shrug:
It is longer in and also pretty in your sig picture. Remarkable length seems to be the prize here at LHC, but being uncomfortable is no prize.
Why not cut gradually, and see how much it will take to get you back to a comfortable length? Take it slow, over a few days or weeks maybe. Then you can avoid a big chop? If you can self trim, this would be no expense, anyway.
Joliebaby
August 19th, 2010, 05:47 AM
I agree that if it's very uncomfortable and you don't enjoy it anymore, it might be time to cut, but you could do it in a few steps. Also, have you tried any topical aids for your scalp? I have had the occasional dry scalp issues, flaky and itchy to the point of bleeding :( Some dandruff shampoos only made it worse.
Phexlyn
August 19th, 2010, 06:03 AM
First, your hair should not be a burden to you. If you're not happy with your hair, you should change it so that you feel better. If that involves cutting, so be it.
I second the advice of cutting in stages, though. I'm not sure how long 39" is on you, probably around tailbone length? I suggest cutting to waist first because waist is still "truly" long for most people but a far more manageable length.
Have you thought about getting your hair thinned out/layered? This can take some weight off as well and looks pretty if you wear it down most of the time.
Please bear in mind that cutting does not really help with your scalp issues. You might have an easier time applying things if your hair is shorter, but unless your scalp is irritated by the weight of your hair (which I have only very rarely heard about), cutting the length won't rid you of the initial problem. Have you seen a dermatologist on this? Maybe your dandruff shampoo is too harsh to your skin?
I hope you find a way to be happy with your hair again and to enjoy it :flower: Just don't do anything drastic without giving it enough thought (you know the two week rule ;) ).
goldenoak
August 19th, 2010, 06:45 AM
To me, your hair is long and pretty in the happy picture. :shrug:
It is longer in and also pretty in your sig picture. Remarkable length seems to be the prize here at LHC, but being uncomfortable is no prize.
Why not cut gradually, and see how much it will take to get you back to a comfortable length? Take it slow, over a few days or weeks maybe. Then you can avoid a big chop? If you can self trim, this would be no expense, anyway.
What jasper said, exactly. :)
Also, you said you've cut back to BSL before and not regretted it. And... hair grows. If you decide you want it longer again at some point, you can always grow it out again. If super-long isn't working for you right now, there's no reason to cling to it. Be bold! Do whatever makes you happy. :flower:
Kome
August 19th, 2010, 07:18 AM
If your hair is this thick, why not consider getting layers? That should take off a lot of weight from your hair. Just a thought. :)
spidermom
August 19th, 2010, 07:29 AM
It is a hard decision, I understand. I hope you do what is best for you personally.
jackie_brown
August 19th, 2010, 07:45 AM
Why don't you get a layered haircut?
You can keep almost the same length of the hair but the layers will lighten the weight on the scalp.
I've read that a good way to wash a sensible scalp like yours, is to use some natural cleaning methods such as ghassoul (or rhassoul).
You can give a chance to it :)
Let us know if you'll feel better.
Best wishes :grouphug:
Morgaine
August 19th, 2010, 07:55 AM
If I had that problem I guess I would have a small chop and try layers to make it lighter.
It is not an easy decision but if your hair has become such a burden you should indeed do something about it.
LouLaLa
August 19th, 2010, 09:02 AM
Your hair should be a pleasure whereas you said you feel "as if it is taking over your life" and if youre not happy then maybe you should consider a cut but just a smaller one to see if it really is what you like.
I felt liberated when I cut my hair and regretted it but my hair is very light and you said yours is heavy and that youve cut and grown it out again in the past which shows that youre comfortable cutting back without regret.
You could do the 2 week rule and see if you feel the same but is seems like you have given this heaps of thought already. Id also look at lots of pictures of your hair and see what you like and dislike about it as it may help you choose your optimal length.
You can still do heaps of styles with shorter hair and if its what you want then you have to do what makes you feel good and may also help your scalp which sounds sore :( *hug* (sore scalps make me sad too)
Good luck :)
Mexibeach
August 19th, 2010, 09:11 AM
I wouldn't go any shorter than BSL if you do decide to cut. I found it manageable at that length; and had it that way for more than 10 yrs...
HotRag
August 19th, 2010, 09:29 AM
Thank you all for answering (I have to take the smilies away, I get a message that I use too many, so imaging flowers too you all. Have to take some of yours away too, from the quotes... Aren't allowed to more than 10...)
How about you cut off a small part and see if you like it? And then maybe another small part?
I just have to say that I chopped off 10'' just this week, and I wasn't as happy with my hair as I am now for a loooong time.
If the long hair is more of a chore for you and actually gives you medically relevant scalp problems, I'd say cut it. Even if it's long.
I think it has to be chopped at waist or shorter, to not tangle and to be able to wear down.
Glad you are satisfied with your cut.
I don't know if the weight itself gives me troubles, but it sure don't make it better.
If your hair is a chore and is causing you pain and is no longer fun for you, I can see why you would want to cut it. Hair is for you, and is to be enjoyed -- if you are no longer enjoying it, chop. You're under no obligation to have super long hair, after all.
On the other hand, you say that you've waited so long for your hair, and you love it. Like Marjolein suggests, I think you should chop in a few stages rather than a dramatic chop back to BSL. Maybe back to hip, then if you still have the problems back to waist, and then if it's still troubling you, back to BSL. If you self-trim, you could do it even more slowly than that, by taking off something like an inch/two inches every month and 'testing' in between until you're happy with it, to find the exact 'happy medium' between long hair and a feasible routine.
Good luck in whatever you choose to do.
Thank you.
I both love it and think it is chore/burden. Also it takes too much time, and I am not comfortable with most buns. I love the braid, but don't think it is as flattering as my old style (down at APL-BSL).
I have recently noticed that I do less of some things that should be really important, due to the hair. I protect it much, and worry about shedding and so on.
I say give it a trim. If you like the effect, that would be great. If you feel you're missing some length, you can grow it back. In the meantime, enjoy the lightness.
I know that there are a lot of mixed feelings, and that it seems hard to make the transition to "maintaining" a length rather than growing longer and longer. I was about halfway between TB and classic, and I trimmed back to TB. It feels fine, and I don't really miss the length.
Yes, it seams impossible to maintain X( And I have VERY mixed feelings.
A while before I decided to grow again, I thought "naaah, I will just become obsessed" and that was true.
To me, your hair is long and pretty in the happy picture.
It is longer in and also pretty in your sig picture. Remarkable length seems to be the prize here at LHC, but being uncomfortable is no prize.
Why not cut gradually, and see how much it will take to get you back to a comfortable length? Take it slow, over a few days or weeks maybe. Then you can avoid a big chop? If you can self trim, this would be no expense, anyway.
Thank you. It was long before, but not as now when it starts to get "really long".
I don't know if I should take it in steps. I have to cut back to waist at least, cause it is at waist I start having problems wearing it down.
But I don't know about the weight at waist.
Also - it would be nice to have a small pony to save.
I agree that if it's very uncomfortable and you don't enjoy it anymore, it might be time to cut, but you could do it in a few steps. Also, have you tried any topical aids for your scalp? I have had the occasional dry scalp issues, flaky and itchy to the point of bleeding :( Some dandruff shampoos only made it worse.
Yes, I used anti dandruff schampoo for the last half year.
When I got scalp issues AGAIN when summer heat came, I went to dermatholog. She said it can be atopic exzema or contact exzema.
She said: don't use SL(E)S, sodium bensoate, formic acid, parfume. Also avoid cocoamidopropyl betaine, but I can't find any schampoo that furfills all of this. The betaine is in all mild schampoos.
When I said I can do my own schampoo with decyl glucose, she said that the glucose part would feed yeast. I don't know if this really are true. She had never heard about decyl glucose before.
I also tried steroid liquid, and had a bad reaction.
Every aloe, herb or EOs have made things worse. Even allantoin is irritating my skin (that must be some record...).
In one month, I will do some patch test to check for allergies.
When issues started again, I got so really stressed out about it. And that is known to make things worse.
For now, I wash half my hair in own made decyl glucose schampoo with no preservatives and just guar gum + glycerin, and the other half with a SLS free thing for use "down there" so it is without perfumes and other stuff that SLS free shampoos use to contain.
My home makes my skin better than the other one, but it starts smelling sebum faster from that.
First, your hair should not be a burden to you. If you're not happy with your hair, you should change it so that you feel better. If that involves cutting, so be it.
I second the advice of cutting in stages, though. I'm not sure how long 39" is on you, probably around tailbone length? I suggest cutting to waist first because waist is still "truly" long for most people but a far more manageable length.
Have you thought about getting your hair thinned out/layered? This can take some weight off as well and looks pretty if you wear it down most of the time.
Please bear in mind that cutting does not really help with your scalp issues. You might have an easier time applying things if your hair is shorter, but unless your scalp is irritated by the weight of your hair (which I have only very rarely heard about), cutting the length won't rid you of the initial problem. Have you seen a dermatologist on this? Maybe your dandruff shampoo is too harsh to your skin?
I hope you find a way to be happy with your hair again and to enjoy it :flower: Just don't do anything drastic without giving it enough thought (you know the two week rule ;) ).
39 is just touching TB or "can I call this TB".
I know cutting wont help with the bottom of the scalp issue, but the weight really makes things worse.
I talked to a friend at FB today, and she said that she cut short at BSL, since she then begins having problems from the weight. She also have thick hair. I don't know if she is braiding wrong (not distributing weight enough), or if she also have a scalp issue that makes weight more evil.
I know the 2 week rule. I have 1 week left ;)
It feels like important to get rid of obsession, and weight. But on the other hand, length is hard to kiss goodbye.
What jasper said, exactly. :)
Also, you said you've cut back to BSL before and not regretted it. And... hair grows. If you decide you want it longer again at some point, you can always grow it out again. If super-long isn't working for you right now, there's no reason to cling to it. Be bold! Do whatever makes you happy. :flower:
If your hair is this thick, why not consider getting layers? That should take off a lot of weight from your hair. Just a thought. :)
Thank you.
Layers are not an option for me though. They don't suit my "style", and, I hate to braid layers (I will still use a braid or two if I cut). I rather cut a bit shorter.
It is a hard decision, I understand. I hope you do what is best for you personally.
Thank you.
Why don't you get a layered haircut?
You can keep almost the same length of the hair but the layers will lighten the weight on the scalp.
I've read that a good way to wash a sensible scalp like yours, is to use some natural cleaning methods such as ghassoul (or rhassoul).
You can give a chance to it :)
Let us know if you'll feel better.
Best wishes :grouphug:
Thank you too :) I can't use rhassoul cause it burns. I can't use any other natural thing either, cause it burns and irritates. No herbs, no soapnut, no shikakai, no EOs.
I did not have a sensible scalp before, this came along with my fatigue I have. First I had to stop henna, cause it itched. Then, last year, I got sensible to every herb. I think I may have triggered it, cause I washed in Indian herbs, and used herbs, EOs and stuff.
What hurts least, is home made decyl glucose shampoo with nothing more than what has to be in it. But then my scalp smells more sebum. I do not know if it is normal smell or more. Maybe more, since I just changed, and are totally stressed out about this scalp issues.
If I had that problem I guess I would have a small chop and try layers to make it lighter.
It is not an easy decision but if your hair has become such a burden you should indeed do something about it.
Yes, I should. But it's a very hard decision, wanting both length shorter.
I don't want layers, but I will think about cutting to waist first.
It took one year from BSL to waist, and another year to get to one inch shorter than were I am now (grew slower last year).
HotRag
August 19th, 2010, 09:51 AM
Your hair should be a pleasure whereas you said you feel "as if it is taking over your life" and if youre not happy then maybe you should consider a cut but just a smaller one to see if it really is what you like.
I felt liberated when I cut my hair and regretted it but my hair is very light and you said yours is heavy and that youve cut and grown it out again in the past which shows that youre comfortable cutting back without regret.
You could do the 2 week rule and see if you feel the same but is seems like you have given this heaps of thought already. Id also look at lots of pictures of your hair and see what you like and dislike about it as it may help you choose your optimal length.
You can still do heaps of styles with shorter hair and if its what you want then you have to do what makes you feel good and may also help your scalp which sounds sore :( *hug* (sore scalps make me sad too)
Good luck :)
Thank you. I have one week left of the two week rule :)
When I look at those old pics, I feel happy.
When I chopped my old longer hair, it was due to me wanting to make 40's dos. I did not have a scalp issue then, but my dos did look sooo boooring, like they starts to again. The braid itself is nice, but my face looks better with loose hair.
The crown bun thing shown in my sig, looks ok though, but it feel like walking with a book on my head.
Where I live, it is very windy (at the west coast of Sweden), I have a gun dog that are not interested in watching me dry my hair for one day, and I have other stuff I should care more about. Having shorter hair was good for that. And it wasn't totally short, it was APL-BSL. Considered long. I could do nice waves and cork screws and wear it down, but I could not make a bun with that length.
Hair has taken too much place in my life. I have the bad habit of getting obsessed in certain things, and the best solution is to change so I can't obsess about it (can't be obsessed over ends and length that are not there).
Every increase in shedding freaks me out. When short enough I can comb or brush and just throw.
But this is so hard decision. I love also love length and my braid...
HotRag
August 19th, 2010, 09:52 AM
Here is one do I could manage at APL or a bit longer:
http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/picture.php?albumid=1255&pictureid=79729
I miss it, but I would also miss length...
jeanniet
August 19th, 2010, 09:53 AM
I think having long hair should be a joy. If it isn't, then you should find the length you're happy with. Your hair is beautiful at the shorter length, too. I personally wouldn't cut all the way to BSL, or at least I'd do it in increments. Why not cut 3 or 4" off and see how you feel about it? If it's not enough, you could cut back to 30" and see how that is, and then to BSL if even 30" isn't enough. If you like long layers, you could see if that would help with the weight. I think if you cut it in increments you'll have fewer regrets because you'll know that you really worked to find the length you're happiest with.
zule
August 19th, 2010, 10:07 AM
I think cutting to tailbone first--a dramatic change--would be the best first step. However, I would do the rest in increments. I've found over the years that when people want to do a huge change in their appearance/body, it's because of things that are more related to one's situation than one's actual problems with hair. Is there any reason in your life right now that you'd want such a dramatic change? You say you are "obsessed" with your hair, which is why I bring it up. There's no reason to believe that you'll be any less obsessed when it's shorter.
I don't believe that medically hair would cause contact dermatitis. It doesn't make sense scientifically, and I doubt it will go away by cutting your hair. I'd look into what the dermatologist said about your sensitivity to products. There are some irritant-free products out there, but they'll be very difficult to find. Something to consider would be facial cleansers for sensitive skin. There's no reason why a facial cleanser couldn't be used for your scalp. It would be more expensive, but might solve your problem, short hair or long.
Have you tried CO washing? Conditioners usually don't have SLS and other irritants.
I'm just throwing out ideas here for your washing problem. It must be terrible to have the problems you have with your scalp. Since you don't have real dandruff, I think I'd stop the dandruff shampoo. They're usually much harsher than regular ones.
Anyway, a TB chop sounds as though it'd fit the bill for right now. I hope it works out for you.
spidermom
August 19th, 2010, 10:23 AM
I know that I go back and forth. Sometimes, like you, I feel like my hair is taking over my life and I just hate it, but before I get through two weeks, I'm loving it again. So my best solution is to keep working on styles that spread the weight better when I have time. When I don't, I put it up in the quickest, easiest buns and take it back down again when the buns start pulling, so it's up and back down, up and back down all day.
HotRag
August 19th, 2010, 01:43 PM
I think cutting to tailbone first--a dramatic change--would be the best first step. However, I would do the rest in increments. I've found over the years that when people want to do a huge change in their appearance/body, it's because of things that are more related to one's situation than one's actual problems with hair. Is there any reason in your life right now that you'd want such a dramatic change? You say you are "obsessed" with your hair, which is why I bring it up. There's no reason to believe that you'll be any less obsessed when it's shorter.
I don't believe that medically hair would cause contact dermatitis. It doesn't make sense scientifically, and I doubt it will go away by cutting your hair. I'd look into what the dermatologist said about your sensitivity to products. There are some irritant-free products out there, but they'll be very difficult to find. Something to consider would be facial cleansers for sensitive skin. There's no reason why a facial cleanser couldn't be used for your scalp. It would be more expensive, but might solve your problem, short hair or long.
Have you tried CO washing? Conditioners usually don't have SLS and other irritants.
I'm just throwing out ideas here for your washing problem. It must be terrible to have the problems you have with your scalp. Since you don't have real dandruff, I think I'd stop the dandruff shampoo. They're usually much harsher than regular ones.
Anyway, a TB chop sounds as though it'd fit the bill for right now. I hope it works out for you.
Yes, there may be some issues right now. But I know myself well enough to know I get obsessed about some things and need to break that in some way. The break point can come when there are other pressure. For now, I somewhat regret that I did not listen to myself when I thought, "naah, I dont want to grow hair and get obsessed, and it is so hard cutting when it is long" :rolleyes:
I had some small flakes in my scalp and dermatholog told me to use anti dandruff shampoo. But now she told me to not use.
It was one with AL(E)S and climbazole. They stopped making it, changed formula to SL(E)S and another anti dandruff agent (not zink one, but pictolone something, can't spell it). AND preserved with sodium bensoate/bensoe acid. Also they must perfume with some fruity acid smelling thing and put formic acid in it.
I can't find ANY anti dandruff shampoo that is not filled with harsh cleaning agents, EOs or other stuff I should not use. I would like XXX glucoside one with no perfume.
Dermatholog also said I could use stronger medical anti dandruff shampoo, but I did taht once, and it destroyed my hair. Soooo drying and hurt my scalp.
I do not have dandruffs now, just itch and red scalp.
Could be atopic like, from the drying shampoo, stress, warmth and sweat that irritates and so on.
But the weight of my hair makes it so much worse. Everything that makes the irritation worse, is in on keeping the bad circle going (if it is dry or atopic exzema).
I stopped everything that could give allergic reaction.
HotRag
August 19th, 2010, 01:50 PM
I know that I go back and forth. Sometimes, like you, I feel like my hair is taking over my life and I just hate it, but before I get through two weeks, I'm loving it again. So my best solution is to keep working on styles that spread the weight better when I have time. When I don't, I put it up in the quickest, easiest buns and take it back down again when the buns start pulling, so it's up and back down, up and back down all day.
Sounds like me now. But I do not take it up and down, cause I think I will loose more hairs if I do (obsessed...).
I can't stand loose updos, so I keep getting them tight, maybe too tight, pulling.
Before I got the idea of lifting the braid to see what the weight did, I could never guess they pulled so much. Not pull just some hairs, but pull the whole. Felt like taking a helmet off when I lifted.
Beeing in updos also makes wind never come into my scalp like when having loose hair, or be able to have a looser pony/braid without risking the "few strand pull".
If scalp settles down soon, I maybe decide to keep this, but if warmth will start this every year, it doesn't feel ok. (I hade this last year, and it stayed for a long time since I used herbs and EOs trying to defeat it, and they irritated very much - I was sure it was medicine induced, but now I start wonder, it came along with the great warmth and scalp sweat, both years).
spidermom
August 19th, 2010, 01:53 PM
Have you tried adding a drop or two of tea tree oil to your gentle shampoo? It is very good for both dandruff and irritation, I hear. I don't have these troubles so I have no personal experience.
HotRag
August 19th, 2010, 02:10 PM
Have you tried adding a drop or two of tea tree oil to your gentle shampoo? It is very good for both dandruff and irritation, I hear. I don't have these troubles so I have no personal experience.
I tried last year, but I get more irritated from tea tree oil and every other EO. For now I don't dare try more EOs or herbs, and dermatholig said the same.
Kind stuff like allantoin and lavender EO is irritating too.
Deborah
August 19th, 2010, 03:22 PM
It sounds to me that you like your hair much better when it is still long, but at about bsl. There is nothing wrong with bsl at all. I say CUT IT! You love your hair at that length. In the photos of you with bsl hair you look just lovely.
Don't be afraid to cut. At bsl your scalp problems will likely be easier to deal with, your hair will feel light and free, and you will still be a longhair. Some of our members fear losing even tiny amounts of hair, but you don't sound that way at all. That's why I say cut. You did not regret it before, and you won't this time either.
Good luck! I hope you do what is very best for you! :)
soprano
August 19th, 2010, 03:28 PM
A few years ago, my hair finally reached classic length. It looked amazing. I received many compliments and appreciative looks when I wore it down; it was something special. However, it gradually needed more and more work. Right around the time it hit classic length, I started to feel that it was less of an asset and more of a liability. It wasn't fun anymore.
In August of that year, I cut it back to my hips. Then in December I had it cut up to my bra strap, with some long layers put in. I absolutely loved it. It looked great. No more worries about weight distribution. It was easy to brush, easy to wash. I could wear it loose to sleep again. It didn't get trapped in doors, seat belts, my jeans, etc. I could still do many fun styles. In fact, it was easier to play with my hair and try new updos because the weight wasn't such a concern anymore. Recently it started getting really long again. It was back down to my tailbone. This week I had it cut back up to my waist. This is such a nice length. It is long enough to be creative with. Every part of it is super healthy. It is not heavy and not such a fuss to wash and detangle.
This is a forum dedicated to long hair. We idolize super long hair and look up to the members with the longest hair. It's easy to fall into the mindset that cutting = bad. Cutting is not bad. A length that is less than maximum is not bad. You should be happy with your hair.
Think about it for a while. If you decide to cut, go take some nice photos first. Then when it is shorter, you can still look at your photos and see how nice it looked, and know that you accomplished your goal to grow it out.
Drarra
August 19th, 2010, 04:42 PM
I'm very sorry to hear that you're having problems with your scalp. It sounds very uncomfortable. I'm going to echo what many others have said - you should enjoy your hair. I think you looked great with the pigtails. :) Good luck - I hope you find an answer that makes you happy and your doctors can help your skin be healthy.
rhodochrosite
August 19th, 2010, 05:12 PM
With all of your scalp problems, I'd want to cut, too. It doesn't sound comfortable at all, and you said you have less issues when your hair is shorter. Also, in your signature picture, your hair does look very, very thick. I guess I'd probably cut my hair in that situation just to see whether I could get some relief.
jeanniet
August 19th, 2010, 11:26 PM
I understand the problem with wind, because it's also windy here--especially in the afternoons in summer...very windy. I really can't do anything outside unless my hair is up, and the wind is one reason my goal length is waist and I might end up a bit shorter than that. If you feel like the wind is really causing you to not enjoy your length as much, I would definitely trim it until you find a length that makes you happy.
HotRag
August 20th, 2010, 02:22 AM
It sounds to me that you like your hair much better when it is still long, but at about bsl. There is nothing wrong with bsl at all. I say CUT IT! You love your hair at that length. In the photos of you with bsl hair you look just lovely.
Don't be afraid to cut. At bsl your scalp problems will likely be easier to deal with, your hair will feel light and free, and you will still be a longhair. Some of our members fear losing even tiny amounts of hair, but you don't sound that way at all. That's why I say cut. You did not regret it before, and you won't this time either.
Good luck! I hope you do what is very best for you! :)
For a while recently, when starting growing again, I regret cuttin in 1998, but I did not regret it then. Of course, saving for long hair, one can regret cutting former long hair years ago...
Today I feel even more for cutting.
A few years ago, my hair finally reached classic length. It looked amazing. I received many compliments and appreciative looks when I wore it down; it was something special. However, it gradually needed more and more work. Right around the time it hit classic length, I started to feel that it was less of an asset and more of a liability. It wasn't fun anymore.
In August of that year, I cut it back to my hips. Then in December I had it cut up to my bra strap, with some long layers put in. I absolutely loved it. It looked great. No more worries about weight distribution. It was easy to brush, easy to wash. I could wear it loose to sleep again. It didn't get trapped in doors, seat belts, my jeans, etc. I could still do many fun styles. In fact, it was easier to play with my hair and try new updos because the weight wasn't such a concern anymore. Recently it started getting really long again. It was back down to my tailbone. This week I had it cut back up to my waist. This is such a nice length. It is long enough to be creative with. Every part of it is super healthy. It is not heavy and not such a fuss to wash and detangle.
This is a forum dedicated to long hair. We idolize super long hair and look up to the members with the longest hair. It's easy to fall into the mindset that cutting = bad. Cutting is not bad. A length that is less than maximum is not bad. You should be happy with your hair.
Think about it for a while. If you decide to cut, go take some nice photos first. Then when it is shorter, you can still look at your photos and see how nice it looked, and know that you accomplished your goal to grow it out.
That's how I function. It gets longer and longer, and I find it taking over my life more and more. And of course, scalp problems are not fun together with long heavy hair.
I'm very sorry to hear that you're having problems with your scalp. It sounds very uncomfortable. I'm going to echo what many others have said - you should enjoy your hair. I think you looked great with the pigtails. :) Good luck - I hope you find an answer that makes you happy and your doctors can help your skin be healthy.
Thank you.
With all of your scalp problems, I'd want to cut, too. It doesn't sound comfortable at all, and you said you have less issues when your hair is shorter. Also, in your signature picture, your hair does look very, very thick. I guess I'd probably cut my hair in that situation just to see whether I could get some relief.
Thank you too :)
HotRag
August 20th, 2010, 02:28 AM
I understand the problem with wind, because it's also windy here--especially in the afternoons in summer...very windy. I really can't do anything outside unless my hair is up, and the wind is one reason my goal length is waist and I might end up a bit shorter than that. If you feel like the wind is really causing you to not enjoy your length as much, I would definitely trim it until you find a length that makes you happy.
My hair is dry and wants to tangle too much when length is approaching waist.
I have to pre oil, make SMT with oil, after oil, I found out that to leave in conditioner made length not tangle as much, but this makes it even longer to dry the hair, and I think it is even heavier.
It takes 9 hours to dry my hair. I live in a humid area, so that probably makes it longer to dry.
HotRag
August 20th, 2010, 02:47 AM
I am so confused over my scalp problems. I know weight is worsening the problem, but I have no clue what is the main reason for the scalp problems.
I have not used SLS, acids or perfumes for two washes now, but it itches and burns. It gets greasy faster.
Sweat makes me itch. And the problems was gone until the real heat came along in late June.
The dermatholog don't seem to be able to help very much. I was told to not use SLS and some other stuff, but she can't tell at all what the problems are. I got another appointment in a month from last time.
If I have problems with over sensitivity, sebum production (with the natural scalp yeast eating it, causing itch?) and dryness, there is no way to deal with it. Stuff that defeats one, feeds the other. If I itch or hair pulls, I get burning sensations. I do not itch more than rarely, thinking about it worsening it.
Dermatholog said to avoid several stuff, and there is not a single product in the market that furfills all of that. Not home made stuff either. She said no SL(E)S, cocamidopropyl betaine, all glucosides. No bensoic acid or sodium bensoate (the VERY popular preserative, taking over all products). No formic acid.
Have you any idea what it can be?
This year, and last year, problems started along with summer heat, when I started to sweat on my scalp. Then it started itching, shed and sebum production went up. Maybe also the sebum smells more, but it may be just that it is more (smells like when I did not wash for two weeks, but has just been 4 days ago). It is like the stuff that comes from my own pores, irritates (sweat, sebum). I have hard sebum, so it builds up on my scalp.
Every herb, EO and such, makes it worse.
Last year, the problems were there from June to January. Heat started in early June then. This year it started early July, thats when heat came this year.
I really hate this :'(
CrisDee
August 20th, 2010, 05:55 AM
It sounds to me like your scalp problems seem to be the major cause of your discontent with your hair, that perhaps if you were able to solve the scalp issues, you'd be totally content with perhaps waist or hip length hair and a healthy scalp.
I will suggest what has been a miracle cure for my daughter, who had scalp issues and skin sensitivity issues that sound almost exactly like yours. The magic bullet for her has been ACV. I believe she does CO washing (the anti-dandruff shampoos only made her issues worse) which helped somewhat, but the scalp problem eventually returned. The ACV rinse is what made it go away for good.
Another thing that will aggravate scalp issues in many people is consumption of sugar and white flour. These things cause yeast issues in a lot of people that often manifest themselves in the type of scalp issues you're describing.
I would try (1) completely eliminating sugar and white flour from your diet (they don't do anything good anyway, so this certainly can't hurt); (2) an ACV rinse, and (3) cutting back to waist. Hopefully these 3 might help you love your hair again! :flower:
CurlAhead
August 20th, 2010, 06:13 AM
First of all, your hair is lovely. Do you like your hair as it is right now, minus the scalp problems? And maybe the weight? Have you considered CO, and how long time does it go between every hair washing?
Maybe you could try to cut just 2 inch, or maybe a little more, and not scrub so hard on you scalp. Maybe try olive oil on the scalp?
As one already said, anti-dandruff shampoo often makes the problems even worse.
soprano
August 20th, 2010, 09:37 AM
Could it possibly be that you aren't able to rinse well enough? When my hair is longest, it is harder to lift sections out of the way enough to rinse really well. When I don't rinse well, I have more trouble with my scalp being oily and itching.
Recently I started using a detachable shower head to really get in close and rinse. Even on my healthy scalp and hair it made a noticeable difference.
HotRag
August 20th, 2010, 12:28 PM
It sounds to me like your scalp problems seem to be the major cause of your discontent with your hair, that perhaps if you were able to solve the scalp issues, you'd be totally content with perhaps waist or hip length hair and a healthy scalp.
I will suggest what has been a miracle cure for my daughter, who had scalp issues and skin sensitivity issues that sound almost exactly like yours. The magic bullet for her has been ACV. I believe she does CO washing (the anti-dandruff shampoos only made her issues worse) which helped somewhat, but the scalp problem eventually returned. The ACV rinse is what made it go away for good.
Another thing that will aggravate scalp issues in many people is consumption of sugar and white flour. These things cause yeast issues in a lot of people that often manifest themselves in the type of scalp issues you're describing.
I would try (1) completely eliminating sugar and white flour from your diet (they don't do anything good anyway, so this certainly can't hurt); (2) an ACV rinse, and (3) cutting back to waist. Hopefully these 3 might help you love your hair again! :flower:
I have already cut out all sugar and white flour.
When I used ACV, it made my problems worse :(
I don't know about anti dandruff shampoos. The one I used, was good until heat came and problems started. At the same time, shampoo formula was changed to the worse. If it IS yeast, I must deal with it in some way, and can't use EOs.
First of all, your hair is lovely. Do you like your hair as it is right now, minus the scalp problems? And maybe the weight? Have you considered CO, and how long time does it go between every hair washing?
Maybe you could try to cut just 2 inch, or maybe a little more, and not scrub so hard on you scalp. Maybe try olive oil on the scalp?
As one already said, anti-dandruff shampoo often makes the problems even worse.
If I knew scalp problems was gone and not to come back, I could live with my hair. I thought last years scalp problems was a separate thing happening. When it was over, I thougth it was over for good. Then it starts over again exactly as last year, debuting with the heat, getting worse.
I wash once every 4th day, but now when I changed to SLS free, it itchs and burns the last day, and I get build up sebum. I discovered some pimple like things today. They was like small blood points that hurt. I really can't understand why I've gotten this scalp problem. I have googled a lot, but there is always totally different explanations (with totally different solutions), or terrible explanations like "AGA gives scalp problems".
I will wash every 3rd day, but it seams very odd, since I all my life have washed once a week, sometimes once every second week without problems.
Could it possibly be that you aren't able to rinse well enough? When my hair is longest, it is harder to lift sections out of the way enough to rinse really well. When I don't rinse well, I have more trouble with my scalp being oily and itching.
Recently I started using a detachable shower head to really get in close and rinse. Even on my healthy scalp and hair it made a noticeable difference.
I have a handheld shower head, and I think I rinse enough. But of course (I think) it is easier to rinse well when washing upside down.
klcqtee
August 20th, 2010, 12:40 PM
I had some small flakes in my scalp and dermatholog told me to use anti dandruff shampoo. But now she told me to not use.
It was one with AL(E)S and climbazole. They stopped making it, changed formula to SL(E)S and another anti dandruff agent (not zink one, but pictolone something, can't spell it). AND preserved with sodium bensoate/bensoe acid. Also they must perfume with some fruity acid smelling thing and put formic acid in it.
I can't find ANY anti dandruff shampoo that is not filled with harsh cleaning agents, EOs or other stuff I should not use. I would like XXX glucoside one with no perfume.
Dermatholog also said I could use stronger medical anti dandruff shampoo, but I did taht once, and it destroyed my hair. Soooo drying and hurt my scalp.
I do not have dandruffs now, just itch and red scalp.
Could be atopic like, from the drying shampoo, stress, warmth and sweat that irritates and so on.
My scalp used to be itchy, sore, red, crusty, flaky and waxy, all at once. Not to mention I'd get dandruff flakes the size of dimes, that would then get stuck in my length. Icky and uncomfortable. Dandruff shampoos didn't help because I'm sensitive to SLS, and allergic to cones (and typical dandruff shampoos have cones in my experience). I started scrubbing my scalp with sugar (very, very gently!) while in the shower. I CO. I mix some granulated sugar in with my conditioner, then scrub my scalp with it (on wet hair, of course). No more dandruff, soreness, or gross crusty ickiness. Since your scalp is raw, you may not be able to do it right now, but it worked great for me. Just be sure you aren't scrubbing too much, or you will rub it raw, which is no fun. The good news is, scalp issues are seasonal for me too, and it seems it has to do with buildup. When I started sugar scrubs, I did it every other wash, but now I only have to do it once every 3 months or so (slightly more frequently during the summer, slightly less during the winter). If I keep up on it, my scalp doesn't bother me, but if I don't do it for a while, my scalp freaks out and I just want to shave off my head because everything either hurts it, irritates it, or leads to scabs and flakes. Hair down hurts, hair up pulls, hair braided, pulls, hair wet is too heavy, hair dry is matted and then pulls. There is no winning! I just saw we have some similarities, so maybe sugar will help you? Good luck!
I'm sorry that you're having troubles with your hair right now. I think you may want to cut to just below the bottom of BSL. It's long, you should be able to do some buns and braids still, plus you'll get to keep a little ponytail, if you wanted.
HotRag
August 21st, 2010, 02:14 PM
@klcqtee My dermatologist said sugar would feed the yeast. So I don't dare try it. :(
share801
August 21st, 2010, 09:02 PM
Perhaps someone using Monistat could chime in but if you have a yeast problem on scalp, wouldn't yeast infection medicine help?
HotRag
August 22nd, 2010, 01:27 AM
Perhaps someone using Monistat could chime in but if you have a yeast problem on scalp, wouldn't yeast infection medicine help?
In my country, that ingredient is only in creams for feet. And they contain harsh ingredients that is meant to break down skin on feet.
For hair, there is ONLY shampoos with LOT of SLS and propylene glycol Every single product that has potential, has propylene glycol and perfume and lot of SLS. All liquids has lot of isopopropanol (and propylene glycol)
It is also said that if treating for yeast or fungus when it is not, can harm skin (when you do it repeatedly, which seems to be the case if it is the yeast that lives naturally on scalp that is the problem).
Cupofmilk
August 22nd, 2010, 02:12 AM
I have been pondering your dilemma. I have scalp problems right now.
I think if your skin is that bad on your scalp, I would be tempted to take some of the weight away for now. I wouldn't go as far as to chop to BSL. I would chop at waist. I would go back and see the dermatologist and see where you get to. That way if things improve quickly you haven't lost too much length to grow back. If things don't improve you can chop more if you feel that would benefit you.
The only thing I can think of that helps with yeast that you may be able to get in a non-sls shampoo is teatree oil. There must be an sls free teatree oil shampoo you can buy. There is a shampoo I have seen in the UK that is advertised as being good for dandruff etc I thibnk Avalon organics.
I thought SLS was my problem. However sls free brought me so many issues with build up. My scalp with not stand conditioner on it however well I rince.
HotRag
August 22nd, 2010, 04:31 AM
I have been pondering your dilemma. I have scalp problems right now.
I think if your skin is that bad on your scalp, I would be tempted to take some of the weight away for now. I wouldn't go as far as to chop to BSL. I would chop at waist. I would go back and see the dermatologist and see where you get to. That way if things improve quickly you haven't lost too much length to grow back. If things don't improve you can chop more if you feel that would benefit you.
The only thing I can think of that helps with yeast that you may be able to get in a non-sls shampoo is teatree oil. There must be an sls free teatree oil shampoo you can buy. There is a shampoo I have seen in the UK that is advertised as being good for dandruff etc I thibnk Avalon organics.
I thought SLS was my problem. However sls free brought me so many issues with build up. My scalp with not stand conditioner on it however well I rince.
I am not sure I can use tea tree oil. Every EO seems to give me reactions. I used tea tree oil last year when I had this problem, but it did not do anything for me.
If I chop it, I could wash with mild shampoo, but more often.
Did it not help you to wash more often with SLS free? Did you get build up anyway?
What do you use for now? SLS?
I suspect that my scalp really hates those fruity smelling perfumes and natrium bensoate. Both more and more popular.
Cupofmilk
August 22nd, 2010, 07:52 AM
I agree about the fruity smelling perfumes etc. Most stuff I simply can't use. I never used to be like this. In Dec 2009 I had longer hair ( near classic) and in a classic post pregnancy dealing with an ill baby, I didn't have time for it. So I cut 18 inches off. That was silly really - 6 inches or 12 to waist would have been better.
Since then I discovered I seem to have all sorts oif issues with shampoo. I got so much build up just washing every other day with sls free shampoo. I have gone back to SLS and that hasn't helped. Right now I am using a horribly chemical T-gel shampoo for dandruff that has coal tar and all sorts of nasties in it. It appears to be helping with the dandruff and shedding, but I still have itches.
I tried CO but to be honest my scalp got covered in a thick layer of build up and that irritated it. I tried to rinse well but I can't have been.
I am now trying a dilute ACV rinse and conditioning the ends.
I don't know what else I am going to do. If I am lucky, I may be able to go into the nearest city - Cambridge tomorrow. They have a good health food shop that sells a variety of SLS free shampoos and I might see what I can pick up. (The trouble is I have 3 small children and I can't go shopping with them all! Buying over the internet costs a lot in P&P so I like to try one bottle of something, if that works I can order 3 or 4 which makes the P&P much more reasonable per bottle). If I find anything I will let you know.
If you have tried so many things I do think a small chop may help so you can wash more often, do you know how fast your hair grows? If it is average then if you cut 6 inches which I think would take you to waist, then that would grow back in about a year. Whilst I do hate the idea of cutting for anybody who isn't sure, I do think there are cases where it is morre important to sort out scalp health etc before continuing to grow.
Darkhorse1
August 22nd, 2010, 10:45 AM
I think what you need to do is what is most comfortable--if cutting helps, then that's what you have to do for now. Maybe the cut will help aid with your scalp condition, and then you may be able to grow it out when you get your scalp condition settled.
I had a similar problem, and my scalp issue was due to stress. I got red, itchy patches that flaked,but were sore. I ended up getting somes steroid based drops and used them and viola, problem lifted. I did lose a TON of hair due to stress, but it grew back.
Long hair shouldn't be work. To me, it should be easy to take care of. I'm lucky mine is wash and go. I'm currently using Head and Shoulders and it's REALLY helped with my scalp issues--perhaps discuss that with your doctor? Your condition may be too advanced and may need prescription help. Also, I found cool rinses really helpful when my scalp hurt.
I totally feel your discomfort! Hugs to you!!!
HotRag
August 22nd, 2010, 12:48 PM
Cupofmilk and Darkhorse, thank you :flower:
I am really stressing about this scalp problem. I wonder how soon scalp problem can appear from stress.
I felt fine until I started to shed more than normal. Week before it started, I had shedded less than ever, so the difference was big. When it did not get back to normal, I started to freak out. And then it has gotten worse. But it came so fast, shouldn't it go some months before I can get hair loss from stress? But if stress gives scalp issue that gives increased shed it maybe can happen sooner?
I also, this week, got my menstruation 5 days earlier than usual. That hasn't happened since I lost my old dog in 2007. Then I was so sad and upset. Menstruation came a few days later, 8 days before it should.
That's how upset and stressed I am about this. All I can think of, is real bad AGA-pictures.
Long hair seems like nothing to having at least normal thick hair.
I also had a crisis when my mothers aunt, 96 years old, moved to elderly care home. She cried, life wasn't worth anything since she couldn't have her dog anymore and she both wanted to die and didn't want it. I started to think about life and death and how fast it goes, and how it will feel the day I must say "no I can't get another dog, I am too old" and I will know why, because I will die, there is no "get it later".
But could this really give increased shedding and scalp issue just days later? The thing with mom's aunt was just two weeks ago, and the problem has increased since. The burning feeling came after that, but I was itching before, have had increased shedding for two or three weeks.
HotRag
October 2nd, 2010, 02:08 AM
An update.
After thinking about chopping until tuesday this week, I went to my old hair dresser and chopped it off!
She took it between shoulder and APL.
The last weeks before the chop, my scalp problems and shedding got worser and worser.
I got Trichodynia (burning scalp syndrome). It hurts really bad. And one can see signs of slight inflammation, and my old dandruff (which I had for many years without problems, so I don't think the dandruff is the problem here).
Last year, I got reactions from Wellbutrin (and maybe lamotrigin). And this year, I stopped taking Prozac after using it for over 8 years. Then the serotonin goes down. It really dropped in me. And serotonin seems to play a role in trichodynia. Also stress and depression, which I have had, can play a role in trchodynia and shedding.
I only use my home made shampoo now, which irritates my scalp the least. I can't use the "kind stuff" from stores, since my scalp don't like the "hair and skin friendly" pH of 4,5 and lower.
Anyway. I feel good about the chop. Panicked the first night when I lost control over how much I shedded (and I also shedded more that day after the combing and cutting, so I felt like I was losing all my hair).
After the last wash, I have shedded somewhat less. And my scalp feel better.
I LOVE the feeling of not having the weight of the braid. And not have to care for the ends. I can lean back in my car, have my hair lose in my bed and so on. Also the hair do looks softer and not drawn along the scalp. Everyone has commented how good it looks and that I look younger. Even my 8 year old son said "mom, you look so much better, I thought it would be ugly when you cut it"
I think I have the wrong personality for saving to extreme lengths. I get obsessed. And having extreme things, makes it really hard when something bad happens (like scalp problem with shedding when saving for super long hair).
Anyway. I still got what is called "long hair". I can put it in a pony or make a short braid. No buns, but I will be able to do 40's dos and have an easy hair.
Here I am one minute ago, just sat up from my bed, no combing or anything and having had my hair in a pony the last days:
http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/picture.php?albumid=1255&pictureid=84757
Toadstool
October 2nd, 2010, 02:40 AM
I just read this whole thread.
I'm glad you choppd, it looks lovely (and long!) and I really hope you can find some relief from your scalp problems.
If stress and depression contribute to trichodynia and shedding and you have just come off prozac, d'you think you should consider returning to it? Or do you feel you now have alternative ways of managing the stress and depression? This year I changed from the highest dose of an antidepressant to the lowest dose of another. I am having extreme emotions which I am trying to manage differently so I understand cutting down/ coming off, I was just wondering seeing as you have an obvious physical manifestation of stress.:)
HotRag
October 2nd, 2010, 02:56 AM
I just read this whole thread.
I'm glad you choppd, it looks lovely (and long!) and I really hope you can find some relief from your scalp problems.
If stress and depression contribute to trichodynia and shedding and you have just come off prozac, d'you think you should consider returning to it? Or do you feel you now have alternative ways of managing the stress and depression? This year I changed from the highest dose of an antidepressant to the lowest dose of another. I am having extreme emotions which I am trying to manage differently so I understand cutting down/ coming off, I was just wondering seeing as you have an obvious physical manifestation of stress.:)
Thank you :)
I will try alternative ways to handle depression.
I came off Prozac, since I thought it was not ok to just go on it for years and years. I ate it for over 8 years every day. It can take 1-2 years to get the balance back and be as normal again.
I will try the following:
- Walk MUCH more. I have a dog, so it should not be to hard.
- Close the computer more, and use it less.
- Activate more. See my relatives more and go to the local meeting of a association I am in.
I am alredy eating halthy, so the only change there could be NOT to eat SO healthy, but sometimes eat stuff that makes me happy too. (I always say no to cakes, coffe and such when everybody else eat and drink.)
To exercise or walk much, seems to be a very effective treatment for stress and depression. It is said from everybody (but the psychiatrist - they LOVE to prescribe SSRI and stuff).
I also came off Ambien last month, after using it for 8 years every day. I have problems getting asleep, and now it takes 2-4 hours.
No help from psychiatric care (they just LOVE their medicines), but from another place, I got a heavy "whats the name of the thing you have over your body while sleeping???". It has sewn in chains. You can get it with sewn in balls too, but the chains are less bulky. This have made it easier to get asleep.
Besisdes the stress and scalp issues, my body feels SO MUCH BETTER since stopping Prozac and Ambien. It's hard to believe how much energy I got, even though I am not sleeping enough. Before, the whole day was destroyed if I missed just one hour of sleep.
But now, I am in my bed, feeling soft and comfortable, thinking that just being there, without feeling "HELP I MUST GET ASLEEP NOW!" really gives a lot of rest.
Katze
October 2nd, 2010, 03:16 AM
your story really touched me. And you are lovely, both before and after the cut!
Perhaps your depression and your skin problems could both be helped by fish oil/Omega fatty acids? I decided to cure my chronic, sometimes severe depression without pharmaceutical drugs, though I do sometimes take St John's Wort. Eating better and getting more exercise but especially enough rest do help me be healthier, so my scalp is healthier too.
I have been on this site for almost 5 years, and my hair has never grown much longer than BSL. I don't like the fairy tale end look that my natural taper creates, and am self conscious when the ends get this way, so - CHOP it is. Just took another 3 cm or so off. As you say, I like being able to wear my hair down, and there seems to be (for me) such a thing as 'too long.' But I also am waiting for new growth to catch up with the old length.
For me, it is about enjoying my hair. I don't measure. I don't obsess about how long it is getting - but I do obsess about how the ends look, whether my hair looks stringy or thin or ratty. I do not want people to feel embarassed for me. I do want to be a role model for healthy hair, since most people with fine hair are told it will not grow, and do not know how to care for their hair. If the ends are thin, it does not look healthy for me and for most people I meet.
The whole point of LHC is to enjoy your hair and learn how to take care of it - it's NOT - not for me anyway - a race for the absolute longest locks ever. I would never win anyway. :) Some people here are absolutely ecstatic that their pixie cut is finally a bob. Some people (me) are natural for the first time ever. Some people are giving up straighteners or perms. And yes, some of us do enjoy super long hair no matter what hair type, texture, color. We can all come together here and help each other.
So thanks for being honest about why you don't particularly want super long hair. I bet there are others here who feel the same.
good luck!
HotRag
October 2nd, 2010, 09:55 AM
Oh thank you Katze. Your'e so kind :flower: :blossom:
I think I have a personality that easily gets obsessed or totally absorbed when I am interested in stuff. I had long hair (BSL) when I started to save for longer hair, so the decision then was "to have really long hair again, maybe longer than back then" (I have had classic or beyond twice in my life). So it was like made for getting obsessed.
I really am into "feeling better without medicines", so I sure will give more exercise a go. Before I did not "believe in such stuff". Didn't think it would do enough. I have some problems with falling asleep, but calmly just rest without sleeping half the night, and sleep the rest, seems to be enough for now. I will not start with Ambien/Stilnoct/Solpidem again, and will do what I possibly can to make the sleep work.
When medicines, stress and depression started to affect my scalp and hair (which I was so interested in), I had to think in new ways. About eating medicines long term or not, and about how much I interested myself in my hair. Starting to shed and thought about "if it does not stop or if I will get real bad AGA" has thrown me into a real crisis. I had anorexia for many years (not in the last 8 years though), and I can honestly say that worrying about losing hair is MUCH worse. That can tell something about how strong this has affected me.
I hope the cut will get me less obsessed, and that together with exercise, no medication and time (amongst other stuff I have thought about), will make me come into balance again, both in my brain and outside on my scalp.
Scalp feels better already, probably since I got so much weight off of it (and the hair do now, can't pull some strands or one point in the same way). One can see at the top of my head, that those hairs is not at all as pulled back/down as before.
Katze, I think you have a good ambition with your hair. Getting it healthy. My ambition for now will be "getting healthy scalp (and hair)". And to have a cut that makes my life easy (no obsessions, and no need to baby my hair at all time).
Capybara
October 2nd, 2010, 12:48 PM
Just dropping by to say, I really like your new cut! :flower:
HotRag
October 2nd, 2010, 01:08 PM
Just dropping by to say, I really like your new cut! :flower:
Thank you! :blossom:
Cupofmilk
October 2nd, 2010, 02:34 PM
Your hair looks amazing now. It is still long and I hope you really enjoy it.
Like you I get really obsessed with one thing and focus on that. I still feel devastated that I cut my hair off last year only beacuse of the amount I cut. However it now is starting to look better again. I have been ill again recently and that seems to be subsiding now. So onwards and upwards.
x
HotRag
October 2nd, 2010, 02:58 PM
Your hair looks amazing now. It is still long and I hope you really enjoy it.
Like you I get really obsessed with one thing and focus on that. I still feel devastated that I cut my hair off last year only beacuse of the amount I cut. However it now is starting to look better again. I have been ill again recently and that seems to be subsiding now. So onwards and upwards.
x
Thank you :)
I really enjoy feeling more free. First day was not so fun though. I lost more hairs than usual after the combing and such at the hair dresser, and I had suddenly lost ability to count them all (having hair loose). Thought I would freak out then.
I will need some time to get used to all the changes.
Great that it seems you are feeling better again, both with health and hair.
What I hope for now, is that my scalp will become healthy again, and that I shed normal amounts. I strongly feel I will not regret cutting though. :)
McFearless
October 2nd, 2010, 08:12 PM
Your hair looks great now! You are so pretty<3 I hope you find a cure for your scalp problems. I wish you the best. Kepe us posted okay? <3
kitten1986
October 2nd, 2010, 08:41 PM
If your hair is this thick, why not consider getting layers? That should take off a lot of weight from your hair. Just a thought. :)
I agree with kome, have you tried layers? you could have your shortest layer cut to bsl to take alot of the weight out
GlennaGirl
October 2nd, 2010, 10:04 PM
Your hair looks luxurious and beautiful. And you look happy! :D
Toadstool
October 3rd, 2010, 02:40 AM
Thank you :)
I will try alternative ways to handle depression.
I came off Prozac, since I thought it was not ok to just go on it for years and years. I ate it for over 8 years every day. It can take 1-2 years to get the balance back and be as normal again.
I will try the following:
- Walk MUCH more. I have a dog, so it should not be to hard.
- Close the computer more, and use it less.
- Activate more. See my relatives more and go to the local meeting of a association I am in.
I am alredy eating halthy, so the only change there could be NOT to eat SO healthy, but sometimes eat stuff that makes me happy too. (I always say no to cakes, coffe and such when everybody else eat and drink.)
To exercise or walk much, seems to be a very effective treatment for stress and depression. It is said from everybody (but the psychiatrist - they LOVE to prescribe SSRI and stuff).
I also came off Ambien last month, after using it for 8 years every day. I have problems getting asleep, and now it takes 2-4 hours.
No help from psychiatric care (they just LOVE their medicines), but from another place, I got a heavy "whats the name of the thing you have over your body while sleeping???". It has sewn in chains. You can get it with sewn in balls too, but the chains are less bulky. This have made it easier to get asleep.
Besisdes the stress and scalp issues, my body feels SO MUCH BETTER since stopping Prozac and Ambien. It's hard to believe how much energy I got, even though I am not sleeping enough. Before, the whole day was destroyed if I missed just one hour of sleep.
But now, I am in my bed, feeling soft and comfortable, thinking that just being there, without feeling "HELP I MUST GET ASLEEP NOW!" really gives a lot of rest.
B y the sleep thing, do you mean a weighted blanket? I've never seen one. How does it help sleep?
I definitely get to sleep better when I've walked for an hour (with my dog too!)so I agree that helps, also to clear my head and go somewhere beautiful.
Congratulations on overcoming anorexia. If you feel safe enough, it may indeed be a good thing to try to eat nice things sometimes but only if you can face it. I am struggling to overcome bulimia. I am 40 and have been like like it for twenty plus years. I get scared sometimes I'll never stop.
FrannyG
October 3rd, 2010, 04:39 AM
Oh my goodness, you look lovely with the cut. Your hair still looks long, and I know that you had a bad shed, but your hair really still looks full and thick. You're simply beautiful! :blossom:
I have no advice about your scalp that you haven't already heard or tried, but I do wish you well, and truly hope that your scalp normalizes soon.
HotRag
October 4th, 2010, 11:34 PM
Oh, I must have missed email notification...
Your hair looks great now! You are so pretty<3 I hope you find a cure for your scalp problems. I wish you the best. Kepe us posted okay? <3
Thank you :flower: :) I will try to keep posted.
I agree with kome, have you tried layers? you could have your shortest layer cut to bsl to take alot of the weight out
Now I have chopped off to above APL, all in one length, so it is too late, but anyway, I don't want layers. I want to be able to do a side parting, and use a barette and have a vintage look to it. And to be able to do short braids without the layer issue (strands sticking out everywhere).
Your hair looks luxurious and beautiful. And you look happy! :D
Thank you :flower:
B y the sleep thing, do you mean a weighted blanket? I've never seen one. How does it help sleep?
I definitely get to sleep better when I've walked for an hour (with my dog too!)so I agree that helps, also to clear my head and go somewhere beautiful.
Congratulations on overcoming anorexia. If you feel safe enough, it may indeed be a good thing to try to eat nice things sometimes but only if you can face it. I am struggling to overcome bulimia. I am 40 and have been like like it for twenty plus years. I get scared sometimes I'll never stop.
Some people sleeps better if the blanket is heavy. I got a blanket made for this, it has chains sewed in. In total, it weighs 5,5 kg, but there are heavier to, up to 10,x kg. There are also lighter, like 3 kg.
These heavy blankets it recommended for peopled with anxiety, asperger, autism, ADHD, and eating disorders. But others can benefit from them too. I have always loved heavy blankets. Can neer sleep in summer heat with just a sheet for blanket.
I hope you will overcome your bulimia :blossom: I had it for over a year (I had repeated anorexia, and sometimes bulimic behavior, but for over one year I had real bulimia). I know what hell all these eating disorders are :(
Oh my goodness, you look lovely with the cut. Your hair still looks long, and I know that you had a bad shed, but your hair really still looks full and thick. You're simply beautiful! :blossom:
I have no advice about your scalp that you haven't already heard or tried, but I do wish you well, and truly hope that your scalp normalizes soon.
Thank you :flower:
Scalp feel a bit better now. I think it likes the less weight, and that hair is not braided during nights. When it is windy, my pony is loose enough to let air in to scalp, which it likes. Also I get very gentle massage from the brush (combing did not give this) and it seems to be good.
When I washed, I lost awful lot of hairs, but daily brushing LOOKS like I loose less hairs. But I have stop counting, so I am not really sure. Shorter hair looks less too, so I really don't know.
jojo
October 6th, 2010, 02:07 PM
I think you know your own mind and if you feel shorter hair is more for you then go for it, however id take baby steps and try and get your scalp issue solved. Selsun shampoo is very good for scalp problems or/and a fungal cream may also help.
Whilst you wait for the final week in your 2 week wait, try some deep conditionings and really pamper your hair but if you decide to cut its not the end of the world and it will grow back. I understand how difficult this is and I wish you all the very best in deciding what is best for YOU x
TinaDenali
October 6th, 2010, 02:48 PM
Wow, you're gorgeous!! What a lovely face you have - such great structure!
And, I love your new cut! You're right - it actually looks really long! What a great hairdresser you've got :)
HotRag
October 10th, 2010, 01:32 PM
Wow, you're gorgeous!! What a lovely face you have - such great structure!
And, I love your new cut! You're right - it actually looks really long! What a great hairdresser you've got :)
Thank you :)
I think you know your own mind and if you feel shorter hair is more for you then go for it, however id take baby steps and try and get your scalp issue solved. Selsun shampoo is very good for scalp problems or/and a fungal cream may also help.
Whilst you wait for the final week in your 2 week wait, try some deep conditionings and really pamper your hair but if you decide to cut its not the end of the world and it will grow back. I understand how difficult this is and I wish you all the very best in deciding what is best for YOU x
I cut it, and that feels great. Now I just hope to solve my scalp issues too. Scalp feels better, but the issue is still there.
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