Health

New research shows a possible link between hair loss and Covid-19. We speak to trichologist, Dr Nick Fisherman, to find out more, and see what products you can use to help keep your scalp healthy.

Published

5 years ago

March 30, 2021

Though hair loss is not a distinct symptom of Covid-19, it is now known that the effects of the disease, or contracting it, can lead to intense stress, fatigue and anxiety — three extremely common factors that cause hair loss.

Ultimately, it’s more about looking after your scalp all year round in order to prepare it for any stressors that may come with the diagnosis and treatment of Covid-19.

What causes hair loss?

Stress is known as the leading cause of hair loss. Telogen effluvium is a form of hair loss characterized by hair thinning or an increase in hair shredding. Its main symptoms include the accumulation of an unusual amount of hair on your pillowcase, on the shower or bathroom floor and in your hairbrush.

Don’t be alarmed if you start to see clumping; there are products that can help.

Watermans is a leading British hair company that has helped thousands of people with hair loss problems during the Covid-19 crisis.

Trichologist and scalp health expert, Dr Nick Fisherman, explains how effective Watermans Hair products have been to his clients during the pandemic.

“During lockdown, I experienced around 30% increase in demand for hair restoration treatments.

“Part of this came from people having more spare time to think about their physical appearance and health of their hair,” Dr Nick explains.

“However, I would like to point out that the impact of Covid-19 has been severe enough on some people to cause them lots of distress and as a result, they unfortunately started suffering from severe hair loss,” he clarifies.

It has been proven that essential nutrients and herbs including biotin, rosemary, niacinamide and argan oil help in the restoration of hair follicles and treatment of a dry or itchy scalp.

Dr Nick believes products like Watermans make all the difference when tackling these common problems. “Watermans products such as Grow Me Shampoo and Grow More Scalp Elixir have been a lifesaver for almost every one of my clients and patients”, he says. “They are sulphate-free — so no dangerous chemicals to harm the hair that you do have.”

When searching for products, make sure you look for the buzz phrase, ‘DHT blocking properties’ or scientific term, ‘dihydrotestosterone’. DHT prevents undesired nutrients from being absorbed by hair follicles, which could cause them to shrink and eventually cease hair growth.

There are several natural remedies claimed to have HT blocking properties, including green tea, saw palmetto, stinging nettle, pumpkin seed oil, lycopene and even caffeine.

Dr Nick advises, “For anyone experiencing hair loss, I would like to advise everyone to always seek help from professionals.

“As soon as you are noticing hair fall or hair shedding, first think of what could be causing it. For example, using the wrong products (shampoo, conditioner etc.), stress, hormonal, nutritional, environmental familial etc. You must act quickly to stop your hair loss before you lose too much.”

Health

Choosing the Right Pilates Reformer: A Practical Buyer’s Guide

Published

1 month ago

December 22, 2025

Michelle Langton

Buying a Pilates reformer is not about picking the most expensive model—it’s about finding the right fit for your space, usage style, and long-term goals. Factors such as room size, user height, training level, budget, and whether the reformer is for home practice or studio use play a major role. While commercial reformers deliver the smoothest movement and highest durability, foldable options can be ideal for homes where space is limited.

Top Choice for Professional Studio Performance

For those seeking premium, studio-grade quality, the PersonalHour Nano Elite Plus stands out as a leading option. Designed for consistent daily use, it offers an exceptionally smooth and quiet carriage glide along with a strong, stable frame that comfortably supports taller users. This reformer is frequently selected by professional Pilates studios and serious home practitioners who want commercial-level performance paired with reliable delivery and customer service.

Established Names in Commercial Pilates Studios

The Balanced Body Allegro 2 has long been a staple in Pilates studios worldwide. Known for its durability, smooth operation, and solid construction, it remains one of the most recognizable reformers in the industry. Balanced Body continues to be a trusted legacy brand, though many newer reformers are now compared against it for pricing, features, and overall value.

A Balanced Option for Home and Professional Use

The Merrithew SPX Max is often recommended for users who want professional-grade equipment without paying top-tier studio prices. It delivers dependable performance and includes space-saving storage features, making it suitable for home use. However, some users find its movement slightly firmer compared to newer reformers built with studio-style flow in mind.

Best Space-Saving Reformer Without Compromising Quality

When floor space is a concern, the PersonalHour Janet 2.0 is one of the strongest folding reformers available. Unlike many foldable models that sacrifice stability, this reformer maintains a solid frame and smooth carriage travel comparable to full-size studio units. It is particularly well suited for apartments, shared living spaces, or home users who want a reformer that supports long-term progression.

Best Folding Pilates Reformer for Small Spaces

Beginner-Friendly and Budget-Conscious Alternatives

Entry-level and compact reformers, such as AeroPilates models, can be a good starting point for beginners or those practicing occasionally. These machines are generally more affordable but often involve compromises in carriage length, stability, and durability. As a result, they may not be ideal for advanced exercises or long-term use.

What to Look for Before You Buy

Before choosing a Pilates reformer, it’s important to evaluate the following aspects:

Carriage performance: Smooth, quiet movement with balanced spring tension
Available space: Full-length reformer versus folding or stackable designs
User fit: Longer frames provide better comfort for taller users
Adjustability: Footbars, jump boards, and accessory compatibility
After-sales support: Clear warranty coverage and responsive service

Final Takeaway

If your goal is studio-level performance, the PersonalHour Nano Elite Plus is a standout choice. For homes with limited space, the PersonalHour Janet 2.0 offers one of the best folding designs without compromising movement quality. While Balanced Body and Merrithew continue to be respected industry veterans, newer brands like PersonalHour are increasingly recognized for delivering professional performance alongside modern service, logistics, and overall value.

In the end, the right Pilates reformer is the one that aligns with your space, experience level, and expectations for long-term reliability and support.