They don’t call it our crowning glory for nothing — a healthy and beautiful head of hair can do a lot for our self-confidence, not to mention overall appearance. On the other hand, we tend to freak out when we notice a more-than-usual amount of hair left on our hair brushes. But when is it actually time to worry? Here, we list the top three signs of thinning hair and what you can do about it.

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On average, it is totally normal and healthy if you shed anywhere between 50 to 100 strands of hair daily. Of course, we won’t be counting each individual strands that fall off our scalp over the course of the day, but if your hair falls in strands, then chances are, you have nothing to worry about. However, if you notice that your hair falls off in clumps when you run your fingers through your hair or brush your hair, it’s likely that you are showing signs of thinning hair. You can also keep a lookout for any bald patches on your scalp as these two are usually related.

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Having your hair fall off in clumps might be an obvious red flag, but there are other ways to spot thinning hair as well. For example, if you start to notice that your scalp is becoming more visible at the hairline around your face or at your hair parting, that could also indicate that your hair might be thinning.

(Also read: Hair Loss in Women: 8 Things You Must Know)

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For those with longer hair, it’s completely understandable that you pull back your locks in a bun or ponytail while working out or just to get hair away from your face and neck to keep yourself cool. Depending on how tight your ponytail is fastened and how heavy your hair weighs, these factors can also contribute to hair thinning. So if you notice that your ponytail feels thinner or that it takes more twists of your hair elastic to fasten your hair, you might have thinning hair.

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Just like the rest of our skin, dead skin cells, dirt and grime also accumulate on our scalp. This leads to clogged hair follicles, which eventually restricts healthy hair growth. Taking a two-pronged approach to encourage fuller hair, this scalp serum clears away debris on our scalp while stimulating hair bulbs. Thanks to a blend of AHA, niacin and caffeine, the scalp is purged and more nutrients are delivered to the hair follicles. Instantly, you’ll your hair and scalp will feel lighter and more refreshed. Your hair will also start to feel thicker over time.

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Reinvigorate your hair follicles with this non-greasy formula as it tones the scalp and strengthens hair follicles during the growth phase. Thanks to a blend of wheat, soybean and ginseng extract, it provides an energy boost to the hair bulbs as it replenishes the scalp with essential nutrients for healthy hair growth. Pro-vitamin B5, biotin and others also help reinforce the hair shaft so that hair breakage is controlled.

(Also read: Herbs and Spices That Will Give You Healthy Skin and Hair)

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Specially formulated to cater to women above the age of 40, caffeine is the key ingredient of this scalp tonic as it instantly boosts micro-circulation in the scalp so that hair follicles receive more nutrients and oxygen. At the same time, niacin and zinc also help thicken hair growth so your hair becomes fuller and more voluminous over time.

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After showering, reach for this and spritz it directly onto scalp any time of the day to stimulate hair follicles. It is suitable to use on a dry or wet scalp, as long as it’s clean. Containing a powerful trio of ingredients, including quinine, caffeine and arginine, it has a triple action on those dealing with chronic hair fall, as each ingredient provides hair follicles with nutrients and energy essential for a fuller and thicker hair regrowth.

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(Also read: 7 Best Volumising Hair Care Products For Fine And Flat Hair)

At the heart of this formula is Minoxidil, a powerful ingredient that’s clinically proven to offer visible results for those who are facing hair loss. All you have to do is apply twice daily onto scalp and massage to boost absorption and stimulate micro-circulation. When absorbed into the scalp, it works by rejuvenating hair follicles and helping them function optimally again. Its mess-free spray pump helps reduce wastage and enables you to apply precisely on areas needed effortlessly.

Photo: ICM Pharma Growell