Seeing hair strands come out when running your hands through it can be unsettling. While some shedding is normal, a noticeable increase can be concerning. Understanding hair growth and loss helps clarify what is normal and when attention is needed.
The Natural Hair Cycle
Hair growth follows a continuous, cyclical pattern with three main phases. The anagen phase is the active growth period, lasting two to seven years and determining hair length. Next, the catagen phase is a brief transition stage, lasting two to three weeks, where the hair follicle shrinks. The final stage, the telogen phase, is a resting period lasting around three months. During this time, old hair prepares to shed, making way for new hair from the same follicle; shedding 50 to 100 hairs daily is normal as part of this renewal process.
Why More Hair Than Usual Comes Out
Increased hair shedding often points to a disruption in the natural hair cycle. Telogen effluvium is a common condition where many hairs prematurely enter the resting (telogen) phase due to a physiological or emotional stressor. This can be triggered by events like childbirth, a high fever, surgery, or significant emotional stress, leading to noticeable shedding typically two to four months after the event.
Nutritional deficiencies can impact hair health and contribute to increased shedding. Insufficient iron, necessary for oxygen transport, can lead to hair loss. Inadequate intake of zinc, involved in hair tissue growth and repair, or vitamin D, which aids hair follicle cycling, may also result in shedding. A diet lacking in protein, the fundamental building block of hair, can cause thinning and shedding.
Hormonal imbalances also influence hair shedding. Both overactive and underactive thyroid glands can disrupt hair growth cycles, leading to diffuse hair loss. Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can also cause hair thinning due to androgen imbalances. Certain medications for blood pressure, depression, or chemotherapy list hair shedding as a potential side effect.
Hair care practices also play a role. Tight hairstyles that pull on hair follicles, such as braids or ponytails, can cause traction alopecia. Excessive heat styling, frequent chemical treatments, and aggressive brushing weaken hair strands, making them prone to breakage and shedding. Some individuals also experience seasonal shedding, often in autumn.
When to Consult a Professional
While some hair shedding is normal, certain signs warrant consulting a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or dermatologist. A sudden or dramatic increase in shedding, especially if it deviates from your usual pattern, requires attention. Specific patches of hair loss or noticeable thinning, rather than diffuse shedding, also indicate an underlying issue. Other symptoms like fatigue, unexplained weight changes, or persistent scalp itching, pain, or redness should prompt medical evaluation. If increased shedding persists for several months without apparent reason, professional advice can help identify the cause and determine if an underlying health condition requires treatment.
Promoting Hair Health
Adopting gentle hair care practices helps maintain hair integrity and reduce shedding. Avoiding harsh brushing, especially when hair is wet and vulnerable, can prevent breakage. Opting for looser hairstyles instead of tight braids or ponytails minimizes tension on hair follicles.
A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients provides building blocks for healthy hair growth. Including foods abundant in iron, zinc, vitamin D, and protein supports the hair’s natural cycle and strength. Managing stress through mindfulness or regular exercise also benefits overall hair health, as stress contributes to shedding. Adequate hydration supports body functions, including those that contribute to healthy hair.
Avoiding excessive heat styling and chemical treatments reduces damage to the hair shaft, making it less prone to breakage. Using gentle hair products free from harsh sulfates and parabens can help preserve hair’s natural oils and strength.