Hair shedding is a normal part of life. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, it’s normal to shed between 50 and 100 hairs per day [1] as part of your normal hair growth cycle.
However, you may notice the amount of hair you lose increases at certain times of year — this is known as seasonal hair loss. Is this common? And when should you seek expert help? In this article, we’ll explore:
Seasonal hair loss is when you notice slightly more hair shedding at certain times of the year. It’s completely normal and usually nothing to worry about. Most people notice it in late summer or early autumn, and it tends to settle down on its own without needing treatment.
Seasonal hair loss is thought to be linked to more hairs shifting into the telogen (resting) phase of the hair cycle. And while it’s completely normal for both men and women, it may be more noticeable if you’ve got longer hair.
Research hasn’t quantified exactly how much hair shedding is a normal part of seasonal hair loss, but it should be mild. Noticing a few extra hairs on your brush or pillow at certain times of year is completely normal. But if you’re seeing sudden, rapid hair loss or changes to your hairline, it’s probably not down to the seasons.
Research indicates that hair loss peaks in summer and autumn, and is lowest in winter [2]. Scientists suggest this pattern may have an evolutionary basis. We may grow more hair in the lead-up to summer to shield our scalps from the sun, and then start shedding it as summer comes to an end.
Other researchers suggest hair loss in late summer and autumn may be due to the effects of sunlight on our scalps — too much sunlight isn’t good for your hair or scalp. However, there is no scientific consensus on exactly why it happens, and there are many other factors that influence hair loss.
In one study, researchers used Google Trends data to explore seasonal hair loss patterns from eight English-speaking countries in both hemispheres [2]. Results showed that hair loss search interest peaks in late summer and early autumn, and the lowest search interest occurs in spring. This is consistent with most previous studies, which also found hair loss peaks in summer and is lowest in winter [2].
A small study (with only 14 participants) found that during the late summer and early autumn months, there is the least number of hair follicles in the anagen (growth) stage of the hair cycle [3]. This fits with larger-scale research that suggests hair loss peaks in summer and autumn.
There’s a general consensus that hair loss increases in summer and autumn. But what if you lose more hair in winter or spring each year?
There are several potential reasons for this:
Whether you’re losing hair in the transition between summer and autumn or at a different time of year, there are ways to minimise your hair loss. Here are some of our top tips.
Avoid rough brushing or excessively tight hairstyles (which can cause a type of hair loss called traction alopecia). Treating your hair gently helps reduce breakage when shedding increases. Don’t forget your scalp either — a regular scalp massage can help with hair growth [6].
Products like hair loss shampoo, shampoo for dry hair, and deep conditioning masks can improve your hair condition and prevent breakage. At the same time, focus on a balanced diet for healthy hair growth — look for foods rich in protein, iron, biotin, and vitamin D.
Give your hair a break from heat styling tools if you’re noticing increased shedding. Protect your hair from cold winds or harsh sun with a hat or scarf to prevent damage as much as possible. Consider UV hair protection to shield your hair from the sun.
Stress can trigger or worsen hair loss, so make time for rest, self-care, or whatever helps you feel more relaxed. Your hair (and mind) will thank you.
If you’re noticing significant hair loss, chances are it’s down to something other than the seasons. Here are just a few of the possible reasons your hair is falling out:
Learn more here about what causes hair loss in women:
Unsure whether your hair loss is due to the seasons or something else? It may be time to speak to an expert. If you’re noticing more than a few extra hairs lost in the shower, there may be something more than the seasons behind your hair loss.
Our expert trichologists can diagnose the cause of your hair shedding and advise you on the best treatment plan. Depending on the cause of your hair loss and other factors, treatment options may include:
If you’re ready to get your hair back on track, you’ll be in safe hands with our hair doctors. Book a consultation at your nearest clinic location today.
Most people without any hair loss conditions lose 50-100 hairs per day. However, if you have very long or thick hair, it may be normal to lose as many as 200 in one day. This is particularly true if it is late summer or early autumn.
Androgenetic alopecia is the most common type of hair loss. It affects 80% of men and 50% of women over the course of their life [8] and is by far the most common reason that people lose hair.
If your hair loss is related to stress, it will usually fall out evenly all over your scalp rather than from specific areas. If you’ve got a bald spot on your crown or an M-shaped hairline, it is likely due to something other than stress as the main cause. Stress related to hair loss often starts around three months after a stressful event [9].
Research suggests that regularly washing your hair can help protect you from some hair loss conditions. According to one study, not washing your hair often enough is linked to an increased risk of hair loss [10]. Learn how often to wash your hair.
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