Why Do We Experience Hair Loss in the Fall? Understanding Seasonal Shedding
As the crisp autumn air begins to roll in, many people notice more hair collecting in their shower drains and on their hairbrushes. Hair loss in the fall is a common phenomenon, yet it often causes concern and even frustration for those affected. In this blog, we’ll explore why hair loss can increase in the fall, what’s behind this seasonal shedding, and what you can do to keep your hair looking and feeling healthy.
Understanding Seasonal Hair Shedding
Seasonal shedding is a real and natural occurrence that happens to many people, typically during the fall months. Hair growth follows a cycle involving three stages: growth (anagen), transitional (catagen), and rest (telogen). At the end of the telogen phase, hair naturally falls out, and a new hair strand begins to grow. Seasonal shedding is an increase in hair loss due to a higher number of hairs entering the telogen phase, often in response to environmental and hormonal cues.
Research suggests that seasonal hair loss is influenced by evolutionary biology. During the summer, our hair provides extra protection from the sun, shielding the scalp from harmful UV rays. When the sun’s intensity decreases in the fall, there’s less need for this “natural coverage,” and more hair strands shift into the telogen (resting) phase, resulting in increased shedding.
The Role of Hormones and Environmental Changes
Hormones also play a significant role in seasonal hair shedding. Changes in sunlight exposure influence the body’s hormone levels, particularly melatonin and prolactin, which can subtly impact hair follicles. During the summer, increased sunlight boosts our bodies’ production of melatonin, the hormone that helps regulate sleep and seasonal patterns. When daylight hours shorten in fall, melatonin levels drop, which can contribute to a higher percentage of hairs entering the telogen phase.
Additionally, the shift to cooler temperatures can have a drying effect on both hair and scalp. The combination of indoor heating and outdoor cold air can lead to a dry scalp, which may contribute to hair breakage and loss. This environmental stress can make hair appear thinner and more brittle, exacerbating the effects of seasonal shedding.
How Much Hair Loss Is Normal?
While it’s normal to lose 50 to 100 hairs a day, during peak shedding seasons like fall, people can experience closer to 100 to 150 strands falling out per day. Although this increase in hair loss might seem alarming, it’s typically a temporary phase that resolves within a few weeks as the hair follicles return to their usual cycle.
Tips to Manage Hair Loss in the Fall
1. Stay Hydrated: Cooler weather can lead to dry skin and scalp, so staying hydrated is essential. Drinking enough water helps maintain moisture in the scalp and hair.
2. Use a Gentle Hair Care Routine: Avoid excessive heat styling, as this can weaken hair strands. Use a mild shampoo and conditioner, and limit your use of chemical treatments to reduce damage.
3. Eat a Balanced Diet: Healthy hair relies on a diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins. Foods like leafy greens, eggs, nuts, and fish provide nutrients that can support hair health.
4. Massage Your Scalp: A gentle scalp massage stimulates blood flow to the hair follicles, which can promote healthy growth and reduce dryness. Use natural oils, such as coconut or olive oil, to nourish your scalp.
5. Consider Hair Supplements: Supplements rich in biotin, iron, and zinc can provide the nutrients your hair needs to thrive, especially if you’re experiencing excessive shedding.
When to Seek Professional Help
If your hair loss seems excessive or continues well beyond the autumn months, consider consulting a dermatologist or trichologist. Persistent hair loss can be a sign of underlying health conditions like thyroid issues, nutritional deficiencies, or alopecia.
Embrace the Seasonal Cycle
Though it may be unsettling to see more hair loss in the fall, remember that seasonal shedding is often a temporary and natural process. By nurturing your hair with good habits and understanding the causes behind seasonal changes, you can help minimize the impact and keep your hair looking healthy all year round.
xoxo Beth
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