Seasonal Shedding or Hair Loss? What You Need to Know from a Trichologist
Spring has sprung, and if you’ve noticed more hair falling out onto your brush than usual, do not jump to conclusions. It could very likely be that you’re experiencing seasonal shedding, a common and temporary process the hair undergoes during the spring and summer months.
Your hair is a delicate part of your identity, so I understand feeling nervous when you start seeing your strands fall out more frequently. You might be wondering if something else is happening or if there’s an underlying issue. Could it be hair loss or is it just seasonal shedding?
Navigating hair loss is a complex and sensitive journey. Even though you shed hair daily, how can you know when you’re shedding too much? Here’s the thing: there’s no one answer to that question. Many types of hair loss conditions come with their own unique symptoms, and there are a plethora of factors that could determine the functionality of your hair growth.
As a board-certified trichologist, I come from a scientific, homeopathic lens regarding hair and scalp health—and that’s the perspective from which I’m sharing my insights with you today. If you’re unsure if you’re experiencing seasonal shedding or hair loss, the best first step is understanding the difference between the two. From there, you can seek guidance from an expert like me who can assist you in clarification.
Let’s dive into some common questions I get asked as a trichologist about seasonal shedding and hair loss so you can be more aware of what’s happening with your hair.
What is seasonal shedding?
Seasonal shedding refers to the natural process where people experience increased hair loss during certain times of the year. Each of our hair follicles undergo a growth cycle in three main phases: The growth phase (anagen), the transitional phase (catagen), and the resting phase (telogen). Seasonal changes, particularly spring into summer, can adjust the growth cycle. It is often attributed to natural factors like changes in daylight or temperature.
Hair shedding occurs in the telogen stage of the hair cycle, meaning the hair is pushed prematurely into the falling-out stage while in the anagen stage, disrupting the natural growth cycle. You’ll notice this occurs at the start of spring into the beginning of summer and then a light shedding in the fall. From mid-fall to winter, the hair growth cycle should regulate and move on to the growth (anagen) phase.
Does seasonal shedding affect everyone?
Seasonal shedding can happen to anyone with any hair type, but studies have shown that seasonal changes in human hair growth occur mostly in women. In one such study, scientists observed 823 women who were losing their hair, even though they were healthy and didn't have any symptoms of alopecia or health issues that could cause hair loss. Over the span of six years, they found that most women tended to lose more hair during certain times of the year, like summer and spring, compared to other times, like late winter.
However, this not does mean that men do not undergo a shedding season, too. A study done by using phototrichograms of men over the span of 8-14 years showed that they, too, experienced seasonal shedding that correlated with the telogen phase of their hair growth cycle.
Are there any remedies or treatments for seasonal shedding?
Seasonal shedding is a natural part of the hair cycle that might not warrant a specific remedy or treatment. Humans shed between 50 to 100 hairs a day. During season changes, it’s common for that shedding to increase. What you can do is continue maximizing your scalp microbiome health by nurturing your hair and body.
Focusing on nutritional wellness by maintaining a healthy diet, prioritizing vitamin intake and proper hydration. Curate your hair and shampoo products carefully based on your specific hair type. Don’t undermine the significance of stress management, as your hormones can affect your hair health (like cortisol). Whole-body wellness is the key to healthy hair.
When should I be concerned about my hair shedding?
If the increased shedding is happening during the onset of season changes, don’t be alarmed. Pay attention and keep track of this shedding, as you will most likely notice a pattern during certain times of the year.
If you start to see hair shedding that is abnormal from the natural fall-out when shampooing or brushing, consider booking a scalp analysis with me at my trichology center. We will work together to find out why your hair is shedding more than normal and if there’s cause for concern.
How can I differentiate between seasonal shedding and hair loss?
Distinguishing between seasonal shedding and hair loss involves assessing much more than how much hair you might be losing. Seasonal shedding happens during specific times of the year, resulting in a temporary increase in hair shedding that resolves on its own. Hair loss may involve ongoing or progressive shedding, leading to noticeable changes in hair density and thickness.
However, making the proper distinction should be determined by a professional. Everyone’s hair and scalp are unique to them, and hair loss can be caused by various things like genetics, hormones, medical conditions, medications, environment, or stress.
How can a trichologist help with seasonal shedding and hair loss?
As a double-certified trichologist, my expertise is in hair and scalp health. Upon consultation, we will discuss your hair and scalp symptoms along with your current healthcare regime. This includes your lifestyle, nutrition, and hair care practices. I also provide a thorough scalp analysis with my dermoscope to further assess the underlying causes of your hair shedding.
Then, we will create a personalized, treatment plan with homeopathic solutions for your hair and scalp. I’ll ensure everything is attainable, with options you can use in your home and things you can do on your time. Based on your needs, we will establish the right solution for you, whether it be:
Vitamin intake
Dietary needs
Lifestyle changes
Proper styling and techniques
Holistic hair and scalp products
Or all of the above!
I have many exclusive, well-researched products at my center including shampoos and conditioners, scalp treatments, and vitamins that you can purchase directly through me without signing up for any packages or membership fees. I only back products that are well-researched by top experts.
Most importantly, my goal is to offer you a safe, comfortable space to speak up about your concerns and be taken seriously. I want you to walk away feeling like you have solutions directly aimed toward you. If I feel further assistance is needed, I have many specialists and experts I would be more than happy to refer you to.
Book a scalp consultation with me and let’s start your new haircare journey together.
If you want to know more about seasonal shedding, read my featured article with Huffington Post here.