Individuals with curly hair often express concern over hair shedding. While some shedding is a normal part of the hair’s natural growth cycle, the unique structure of curly hair can make this process appear more significant. Understanding the nuances of curly hair and its shedding patterns can help differentiate between typical hair fall and actual hair loss.
Understanding Normal Curly Hair Shedding
Hair growth occurs in three phases: anagen (growth), catagen (transition), and telogen (resting and shedding). Approximately 85-90% of hair is in the anagen phase, which can last for several years, while a smaller percentage is in the telogen phase, lasting about two to four months before the hair sheds. It is considered normal to lose between 50 and 100 strands of hair daily, regardless of hair type.
For curly hair, normal shedding can seem more pronounced. The natural twists and spirals of curly hair can effectively trap shed hairs within the curl pattern. These trapped hairs become noticeable only when removed during detangling, brushing, or washing, leading to the perception of a larger volume of hair loss. Since curly hair is often washed and detangled less frequently than straight hair, the accumulation of shed hairs can create an alarming visual when finally released.
Common Causes of Breakage and Loss in Curly Hair
Curly hair is prone to dryness, contributing to its fragility and susceptibility to breakage. The natural oils produced by the scalp, known as sebum, struggle to travel down the winding path of curly strands, making them drier and more brittle from root to tip. This lack of moisture can lead to dullness, frizz, and increased vulnerability to damage.
Mechanical damage, often from aggressive styling, frequently causes curly hair breakage. Rough detangling, especially on dry hair, can cause strands to snap. Tight hairstyles that pull on the scalp, such as ponytails or braids, can also create tension on hair follicles, leading to breakage around the hairline. Regular use of heat styling tools without adequate protection can strip moisture and damage the hair’s cuticle, making it more prone to breakage.
Product buildup on the scalp and hair contributes to shedding and breakage. The accumulation of styling products can coat hair strands and clog follicles, potentially hindering healthy hair growth and leading to scalp irritation. Furthermore, chemical treatments like coloring, perms, or relaxers can weaken the hair’s structure, making it more brittle and susceptible to breakage. These processes can alter the hair’s porosity, affecting its ability to retain moisture.
Systemic Health Factors Affecting Hair Shedding
Hair shedding can be influenced by internal health conditions and systemic factors. Nutritional deficiencies play a role in hair health, as hair follicles require a sufficient supply of vitamins and minerals for proper growth. Insufficient levels of iron, zinc, vitamin D, and certain B vitamins can disrupt the hair growth cycle and contribute to increased shedding. For instance, iron is essential for oxygen transport to hair follicles, and its deficiency can be linked to telogen effluvium.
Hormonal imbalances are a common trigger for excessive hair shedding. Conditions affecting the thyroid, such as hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, can disrupt the natural hair growth cycle. Significant hormonal shifts, like those experienced postpartum or during menopause, can lead to increased shedding as estrogen levels fluctuate. Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone present in both men and women, can also shorten the hair’s growth phase, resulting in thinner, weaker strands.
Physical or emotional stress can impact the hair growth cycle, leading to telogen effluvium. This occurs when a large number of hairs prematurely enter the telogen (resting) phase, resulting in noticeable shedding typically two to three months after a stressful event. Certain medications can also induce telogen effluvium, causing increased hair fall.
When to Consult a Professional
While some hair shedding is normal, seek professional medical advice for significant changes. A sudden and considerable increase in the amount of hair shed, especially if it exceeds 100-150 hairs daily, warrants attention. The appearance of bald patches, noticeable thinning in specific areas, or a receding hairline are also signs that indicate a need for professional evaluation.
Scalp irritation, persistent itching, redness, or pain with hair shedding warrants a healthcare provider visit. These symptoms could point to underlying scalp conditions or infections that require specific treatment. If hair shedding is accompanied by other systemic symptoms, such as fatigue, unexplained weight changes, or changes in skin or nail health, it is important to consult a doctor. A dermatologist or trichologist can accurately diagnose the root cause of hair shedding and recommend appropriate interventions.