Latest news with #Traya
Hindustan Times
8 hours ago
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Coconut water to scalp detox: 4 expert-backed hacks to beat summer hair fall
Summer might be the season of sunshine but it is also when a common concern grips our country: sudden, excessive hair fall. What many do not realise is that seasonal hair fall is real and summer brings with it a unique set of challenges that affect the scalp and hair health. Hair falling out in clumps? This hair care expert's 4-step plan might be the reset you need.(Photo by Jared Brashier on Unsplash) In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Saloni Anand, Co-Founder of Traya, shared, 'From extreme heat and dehydration to increased sweat, pollution and UV exposure, your scalp is under constant stress in summer. Add to that poor diet, travel and irregular routines and it creates the perfect storm for hair fall but what's important to understand is that this kind of seasonal shedding isn't just a surface problem, it's your body reacting to internal imbalances and external stressors.' She encouraged approaching hair fall differently where rather than opting for a one-size-fits-all solution, she suggested diagnosing the root cause. Saloni Anand said, 'Summer hair fall often points to excess heat (or pitta dosha, in Ayurvedic terms), poor gut health and inflammation in the scalp. It's why many people notice greasy scalps, dandruff flare-ups and even breakouts along the hairline.' The solution, therefore, lies in a multi-pronged approach. Saloni Anand advised - 1. Hydrate more than usual Coconut water cleanses body's toxins.(Shutterstock) Not just with water but with foods rich in electrolytes like coconut water and citrus fruits. 2. Shift to a scalp-friendly diet A scalp-friendly diet reduces processed foods and sugars, which spike inflammation. 3. Adapt your hair care routine Wash your hair more frequently if you sweat a lot but avoid harsh shampoos and never skip oiling. It helps regulate sebum and nourishes the roots but keep it light and rinse it off well. 4. Another often ignored aspect is sleep and stress Stress, pollution, poor nutrition and disrupted sleep patterns are key reasons behind premature baldness, which is a problem plaguing people as early as in their twenties.(Shutterstock Photo) Hair is one of the first things to reflect stress and we must take that seriously. Seasonal hair fall if ignored, it can trigger chronic hair thinning. Saloni Anand concluded with the advice, 'Don't panic. Instead, listen to your body, balance your routine and support your scalp both inside and out. Summer doesn't have to mean losing hair, it can be the season you finally take control of your hair health.' Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Time of India
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Traya and Sunil Grover bust hair loss myth in new brand film
Traya , India's science-backed hair loss solutions brand, has launched a new brand film featuring actor and comedian Sunil Grover . Inspired by the true story of a Traya customer, the film tackles one of the most widely believed myths about hair loss: 'Once it's gone, it's gone for good.' At the heart of the film is a relatable and emotional narrative: a young man hears the age-old line 'Baal ek baar gye toh wapas nahi aate' from a skeptical uncle, echoing the disbelief that surrounds hair regrowth treatments in India. It highlights a deeply held social belief, that hair loss is irreversible, one reinforced by the fatigue of trying ineffective solutions time and again. But the twist comes when Grover, playing a sharp-eyed observer, points out something that shuts down the skepticism: the hero now has better hair than he did in his old wedding photo, a reference that aims to drive home the fact that with the right approach and treatment, hair regrowth is possible. The story draws directly from the real experience of Nikhil, a Traya user, who shared: 'I look better now than I did in my wedding photos. Losing hair isn't easy—it took a toll on me for years. I remember hiding under a cap to cover my scalp. But today, I look better, feel better, and I couldn't be happier. And it's all thanks to Traya. I've regained my confidence and my youth.' His transformation was made possible through Traya's holistic, doctor-led treatment, rooted in Ayurveda , Dermatology and Nutrition. 'This campaign is about breaking the cycle of hopelessness that so many people feel when they experience hair loss and rewriting a belief that has held so many hostage. Nikhil's story isn't just inspiring, it's proof that the right approach works. It is a reminder that when we look at hair loss as an internal problem rather than a cosmetic issue, real results can be achieved. We didn't want fiction. We wanted honesty,' said Saloni Anand, co-founder of Traya. Confident and compelling, the new brand film underscores Traya's science-backed promise of real, sustainable results. Amid the clutter and chaos of quick fixes and marketing trends, Traya's new brand film cuts through with clarity and confidence. The film is currently live on Traya's digital channels, including YouTube and Instagram. With a blend of humor, emotion and authenticity, the campaign speaks to a generation that's tired of empty promises — and ready for results. Watch the video here:
Time of India
07-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
ETBWS 2025: Education, retention and AI: Traya's holistic prescription
Five years ago, Traya Health , a holistic hair loss solution, was born out of a deeply personal health struggle faced by co-founder Saloni Anand and her husband. What began as a quest for personal well-being has blossomed into a pioneering brand that challenges conventional wisdom in the hair care industry. Saloni shared Traya's science-first approach in a session at the ETBrandEquity Brand World Summit 2025 . The genesis of a solution Saloni Anand, co-founder of Traya, recounted the origins of the brand. Her co-founder, armed with a biomedical chemistry background, embarked on extensive research to address his uncontrollable hypothyroidism. During this challenging journey, a surprising side effect emerged: his hair began to grow back. "About two years later, we realised that this is something awesome, and everything out there in the industry is not able to grow hair, but we could, so there's some potential to explore this," Anand shared. This discovery spurred intensive research into hair science, revealing critical insights that would become the bedrock of Traya's unique approach. Dispelling hair loss myths: Traya's foundational learnings Traya's deep dive into hair science led to three fundamental revelations that shaped their model: Diagnosis is key: "We learned hair loss is genetic mostly, but has multiple types. Not everyone has hair loss because medically multiple types of it require diagnosis.' Follicle potential: Hair regrowth is possible if follicles are still present, meaning it's achievable for most individuals not in very advanced stages of hair loss. No magic bullet: 'There is no magic molecule for one product that can grow everyone's hair. It's a wider thing that's happening. It's more like diabetes than anything." Analysing the existing hair industry, Anand observed, "More than 10,000 products on Amazon today sell with the label of hair fall and are topical. Selling you a shampoo, conditioner that has wrongful claims, promising 30-day results, sometimes even worse." This landscape, rife with superficial solutions, solidified Traya's mission: "We are here to grow hair, and we will do everything it takes to get that emphasis." The "three sciences" model: Traya's holistic prescription The first year was dedicated solely to building formulations. This led to Traya's distinctive model: a hair solution built on diagnosis and a holistic approach. The brand name, "Traya," is Sanskrit for "three sciences," embodying their core philosophy: Ayurveda, Allopathy (Dermatology) and Nutrition. The consumer journey begins with an online diagnosis. The solution provided is a customised kit incorporating elements from all three sciences, including a diet plan, recognising that hair loss often stems from internal imbalances. Initial skepticism from investors was high. Saloni and her husband launched Traya with personal funds. Six months later, with tangible results from their first critical trials, they secured their initial investment. Breaking the rules: A D2C brand of the future Traya today stands as a largely scaled, profitable brand, having served over 10 lakh Indians. A distinctive aspect of its D2C model is that 100 per cent of its revenue comes directly from its platform. "If you download the Traya app, take a long diagnosis. They buy a gift. If the consumer cannot choose which product they are buying. We tell them what they should buy," Anand stated, emphasising their doctor-led, personalised approach. Eighty per cent of Traya's revenue comes from repeat customers. "This happened because we did not have the baggage of how," she noted. Education, retention and AI: The pillars of growth Anand highlighted three critical pillars for modern D2C success: Believe in education: Traya faced the challenge of educating consumers on why previous topical solutions had failed and why a holistic, science-backed approach was necessary. "Our journey from zero to one crore per month is really smooth. We really had to build these fundamentals," she revealed. This rapid scale was driven by a deep commitment to educating their audience. Traya's culture prohibits discussing competitor brands, focusing solely on their consumers. "The moment you do that and you just focus on your consumer, you have the ability to do something," she added. Retention over acquisition: Traya defines itself internally as a "habit building organisation," treating hair loss as a chronic disease. Their North Star metric is retention, supported by a data-tech engine and over 800 hair coaches who ensure adherence and usage. "Back in 2023, when we were having that growth chart, we reached a point where we saw retention numbers there, and we cautiously stopped all our marketing scale up," Anand disclosed. This move underscored their commitment to long-term customer success over short-term acquisition. "How can you be a D2C brand in 2025? That's not too little but is just too little today to differentiate. Can you add a service there? Can you add a community? How can you be more than just a product gone?" Embrace AI: While acknowledging AI as a buzzword, Anand firmly believes it will be a pivotal theme in brand building. Traya, despite its 800-person team, has already seen impressive results from integrating AI. "Three months ago, I took a mandate at Traya that no more tech hiring, and we are about since then, we have done zero tech hiring, and we've increased the tech productivity four times," she shared, emphasising the transformative power of AI in consumer evaluation, discovery and shopping. Saloni Anand concluded by summarising her key takeaways for aspiring D2C brands: "Think more than product solutions. Think of efficiency. Think science, if your product works, everything else will fall in place. Think AI. Think of the review word and think of retention first."
Indian Express
30-06-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
‘Used to have hair denser than my mother and sister': Why Gen Z men in India are facing a hair loss crisis in their 20s
In India, how a person 'looks' is given a lot of weight. This focus can be beneficial to a certain degree, but it often crosses into unhealthy territory. Women, long subjected to evolving beauty standards – now amplified by social media – voice their struggles with body image, but lately, men are facing the heat too. There is a rising yet under-discussed concern among men now – hair loss – specifically, male-pattern baldness. According to a 2023 study published in the National Library of Medicine, 'Male-pattern hair loss (MPHL) is a highly heritable and prevalent condition characterised by progressive hair loss from the frontotemporal and vertex scalp.' In India, thick, lustrous hair has always been associated with youth and vitality, but an increasing number of Gen Z men are facing premature baldness. Traya's study, conducted in 2023, found that '50.31 per cent of Indian men experiencing hair loss are under the age of 25.' This paper factored in data collected from around 500,000 men. Once considered a concern for middle-aged men, male pattern baldness is now appearing far earlier, bringing not only physical changes but also profound psychological impacts and emotional consequences. spoke to men coping with early hair loss, and to psychologists and dermatologists, to examine the causes and psychological effects of losing hair at a young age. Yash Bhatia, 27, first noticed his receding hairline when someone pointed it out. While he insisted this didn't hit his confidence much, Bhatia acknowledged the stigma: 'There was some teasing from friends, but it didn't affect me much.' For Aaditya Sharma, 23, a PR professional, the experience was far more challenging. 'My hair loss started in late 2019 and worsened in 2020, during my first year of college,' he recalled. 'What didn't help was the fact that, until 2019, I had denser hair than my mother and sister. By late 2020, there was a visible bald spot on the crown of my head.' This sudden change took a psychological toll. 'It took a toll on my self-perception, leading to self-doubt and regret. Spending time alone during lockdown led me to overthink. There was even a time when I stopped looking over my forehead in the mirror as it would remind me of my negligence,' Sharma said. Bhatia, however, maintained a more detached view. 'It's quite common these days,' he said, noting that forums like Reddit are filled with hair loss discussions. 'It didn't hurt my self-esteem, but the frequency with which people commented on it did stand out. People still associate hair loss with poor lifestyle choices, though it's become a widespread issue. Many are now considering transplants if they feel the need.' Dr Gunasekar Vuppalapati, senior reconstructive and aesthetic plastic surgeon at GVG Invivo and Apollo Hospitals, said that while genetics remain the primary driver, environmental factors are accelerating hair loss in younger men. 'The rising number of bald young men is part of human evolution, and Gen Z is experiencing this progression. The main culprit is gene-mediated dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that gradually shrinks hair follicles, leading to thinning,' he said. Dr Mandeep Singh, head of the department of plastic, dermatology and cosmetic surgery at Paras Health, Gurugram, said, 'Stress, poor lifestyle habits, and hormonal imbalances all contribute to early onset. When stress levels rise, hair follicles enter a resting phase, resulting in excessive shedding.' Both doctors agreed that modern lifestyles contribute to the problem. Dr Vuppalapati said, 'Rising levels of chronic and sustained stress are playing a significant role. The urban environment, pollution, and exposure to hard water in many Indian cities can damage hair health.' Jai Arora, counselling psychologist and co-founder of Kirana Counselling, explained the profound psychological effects of premature hair loss. 'Hair is closely tied to self-image. When men lose it early, it can seriously damage their confidence. We associate a full head of hair with youth and attractiveness. Losing it prematurely can lead to feelings of inadequacy, social withdrawal, or anxiety.' This psychological toll is evident in Sharma's experience with societal judgment. He recalled a particularly painful incident: 'I was getting a haircut when a man asked if I was married. I said no, and he replied, 'Better get married soon. Or it'll never happen'.' Bhakti Joshi, counselling psychologist at Samarpan Health and founder of Asha Mental Health Services, said these experiences reflect larger societal attitudes. 'Hair is symbolically tied to virility and fertility. Losing it can diminish body image satisfaction. For some, the anxiety becomes intense and leads to maladaptive coping, even symptoms of body dysmorphia, mood disorders, or social phobia.' Joshi said the consequences can be severe: 'The person experiencing drastic hair loss or balding might develop intense preoccupation and coping efforts in response, might also develop social anxiety, and less life satisfaction. From the clinical perspective along with maladaptive coping patterns can range from body dysmorphic to mood disorder tendencies, social phobias.' For those facing hair loss, both medical and psychological interventions can help. Dr Vuppalapati outlined several treatment options: Dr Singh said that 'early use of minoxidil or finasteride under a dermatologist's guidance can slow the thinning of hair.' However, cost can be a barrier. Sharma considered hair transplant but found it prohibitively expensive. 'The treatment would cost me over Rs 70,000, plus ongoing medication expenses. As the sole earner in my family, I decided against it.' Instead, he uses a hair patch occasionally. Psychological approaches are equally critical. Arora suggested shifting focus from external appearance to internal values. 'Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) helps reframe thoughts, separating identity from physical traits. That change in perspective can be powerful.' Both dermatologists stressed that while genetics cannot be changed, several preventive steps can slow the progression of male pattern baldness. Dr Vuppalapati recommends: According to Dr Singh, 'A Mediterranean-style diet with lean proteins, healthy fats, and antioxidants may help minimise hair loss.' He also said, 'Staying hydrated is essential for scalp health.' Male pattern baldness in young men represents more than just a cosmetic issue – it's a complex interplay of genetics, environment, lifestyle, and psychological factors. While medical treatments can address the physical symptoms, the emotional and social aspects require greater awareness and acceptance. Sharma agreed. 'The reactions from my friends and family have been nothing but encouraging. They often tell me that people don't care as much for looks, which, although not true, does give me hope. To them, the hair loss doesn't matter, but to me, it does,' he said. This captures the essence of the challenge many young men face – trying to reconcile personal insecurities with societal norms, all while navigating a condition that's no longer just about ageing, but about identity, confidence, and self-worth. Swarupa is a Senior Sub Editor for the lifestyle desk at The Indian Express. With a passion for storytelling, she delves into the realms of art & culture, fitness, health, nutrition, psychology, and relationships, empowering her readers with valuable insights. ... Read More
Indian Express
11-05-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
Is grapeseed oil the secret to shinier, stronger hair? Experts weigh in
Different hair types require hair care in varied manners. We all know the benefits of a good oil massage for your scalp health, but which oil fits the shoe? While it is generally oils made from Rosemary or Coconut which garner much of the attention and affection, there are other undercover gems which could reap more benefits, if used smartly. Read all about how grape seed oil could be a serious addition in your skincare routine. According to Dr Kalyani Deshmukh, MD, dermatologist and consultant at Traya, grapeseed oil can help in adding a shine and smoothness to hair, making it healthier and more vibrant. Grapeseed oil's lightweight texture and strong nutrient profile provide various benefits to hair health. It is 'extremely moisturising ,making it ideal for nourishing dry, frizzy hair. Its ability to penetrate the hair shaft helps to retain moisture, reducing dryness and boosting overall hair texture. Grape seed oil contains vital fatty acids, particularly 'linoleic acid, which can strengthen hair strands and minimize breakage and split ends'. This fortification encourages healthy hair development. Grapeseed oil can also relieve a dry, itchy scalp and help reduce dandruff by moisturizing it. Massage it into the scalp can also improve blood circulation, thus promoting hair growth. Notably, grape seed oil includes a high concentration of vitamin E, says Kanikka Malhotra, consultant dietician and diabetes educator, a 'potent antioxidant that shields hair from oxidative damage and environmental stresses.' Moreover, it also has a high concentration of omega-6 fatty acids, particularly linoleic acid, which is necessary for moisture retention and hair growth. The grape seed oil also contains 'carotenoids and polyphenols', such as OPC (oligomeric proanthocyanidins), which contain anti-inflammatory qualities and promote scalp health. These nutrients work together to strengthen hair, increase shine, and minimise frizz, making grapeseed oil an excellent addition to hair care procedures One problem is that grape seed oil may not give adequate moisture for severely dry or coarse hair, as its lightweight nature may result in insufficient hydration when compared to heavier oils such as coconut or olive oil. 'Furthermore, people with oily scalps may discover that grapeseed oil aggravates greasiness if used too generously or near the roots. Some people may experience allergic responses, especially if they are sensitive to grapes or related products,' adds Malhotra. Grapeseed oil can be used as a lightweight moisturizer, applied directly to the skin, or combined with other skincare products to increase hydration and texture. It also serves as an effective makeup remover. Malhotra says, 'Finally, the quality of grapeseed oil might vary; oils extracted using dangerous chemicals like hexane may contain residues that could be harmful to hair health, therefore it is crucial to use high-quality, cold-pressed options.' DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
