Just as tree leaves fall off in autumn and fresh leaves take over in spring, the same goes for your tresses. But what happens when the “shedding season” never seems to end? That’s when worry sets in.
Understanding why your hair is falling out is the first step in restoring its strength and length. This article explores hair shedding reasons, the signs to watch out for, and practical ways to prevent it.
What is Hair Shedding?
Shedding of hair strands is a normal process that allows new hair to grow in. A good hair growth cycle can include daily hair shedding of up to 100 hairs. If your lost strand count is higher than that, it is considered excessive. Usually, you’ll notice this in the form of clumps of hair on your pillow, in the shower, or on your hairbrush.
Hair Shedding Reasons
So, what causes hair to fall out beyond normal limits? The commonly known hair shedding reasons that can speed up hair fall are listed below:
- Androgenetic alopecia: This is the most common type. It’s also called male pattern baldness or female pattern hair loss.
- Mental health and stress: Anxiety, depression, or prolonged stress can trigger hair shedding stress, leading to temporary thinning.
- Medication: Birth control pills, antidepressants, and chemotherapy drugs have all been linked to temporary shedding.
- Health problems: Autoimmune diseases and infections, such as COVID-19, can disrupt the growth cycle and cause the animal to shed.
- Treatments for hair loss: These include meds, such as Finasteride and Minoxidil, which may cause temporary hair loss before they start to grow back.
- Loss of hair with the seasons: Some people face seasonal hair shedding, like in summer or when the seasons change.
If you can’t pin down the exact cause, you should consult a trichologist to determine the cause behind your severe hair shedding.
Symptoms of Hair Shedding
Let’s agree, we don’t count and check how much hair we lose on a daily basis. So, how do you know if it’s more or less? The answer lies more on the intuitive side, and being mindful of these signs will help you assess the level of your shedding:
- You feel extra strands on your pillow, brush, or shower drain, more than what you’re used to seeing.
- Thin bald spots or sparse hair growth areas appear to emerge on the head.
- Hair that looks dry, short, or breaks easily.
Also, keep in mind the difference between hair loss and shedding of hair. Shedding is usually short-term and can be fixed, but hair loss is when your hair thins or falls out over time and may need ongoing treatment.
Shedding of Hair After a Hair Transplant: Is It Normal?
Many people are shocked when the transferred hairs start to fall out a few weeks after the surgery. It’s normal to feel this way. It’s called “shock loss.” When the transferred hairs fall out, new hairs grow in their place.
Sometimes, hairs that were not transplanted may also fall out because of the stress of surgery. Not often, but they do, it’s only for a short time. Most people see healthy regrowth and recovered density within a few months. However, it is always best to consult with the doctor from where the hair transplantation was achieved.
How to Stop Hair Shedding
You shouldn’t worry if the amount of hair you’re losing is normal. However, if you are having severe hair strand shedding, acting quickly can help you feel better about your appearance and protect the health of your hair. Here are solutions that can help:
Seek Professional Advice
A doctor or expert in hair health can help determine the cause behind your excessive hair fall and suggest the best ways to treat it.
Treat Root Causes
If you shed because of stress, illness, or an undiagnosed condition, it’s essential to address the underlying cause. Changes in your lifestyle, therapy, or medical help can all help.
Eat Nutritious Food
Proteins, vitamins, and minerals are important for hair growth. Avoid extreme diets and opt for well-balanced meals that are beneficial for your hair.
Do a Lot of Exercise
Better circulation gets nutrients to your head and hair follicles, which helps hair grow back.
Care For Your Hair
Avoid excessive heat styling, use gentle products, and refrain from tying your hair too tightly. Handling gently keeps things from breaking.
Evaluate Supplements or Therapies
In some cases, Minoxidil, shampoos containing caffeine, or vitamin E may help stimulate hair growth. Always talk to a doctor before starting.
Conclusion
Losing hair is a normal part of the growth cycle. Up to 100 hairs fall out every day. But when hair loss gets too bad, it can be caused by worry, illness, medication, or conditions like androgenetic alopecia. Early detection of excessive hair shedding and professional advice can make a significant difference.
You can stop shedding of hair and promote healthy growth by living well, working out, caring for your scalp, and seeing a professional when necessary. The natural rhythm of your hair is meant to make it grow back, but sometimes it needs a little help to stay strong.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why does my hair fall out so much?
Genes, hormones, stress, medical problems, or harsh hairstyles can cause your hair to fall out at a rate faster than the normal rate.
2. How do I have my hair not fall out?
Eat a balanced diet, deal with stress, and avoid hair-damaging habits. If hair loss doesn’t disappear, see a doctor for focused treatment.
3. Does hair that falls out grow back?
Yes, most hair that falls out typically grows back on its own time. However, if you lose a lot of hair or hair that stays on for a long time, you may need medical help.
4. Do you lose hair when you take ivermectin?
Studies have shown that high amounts of ivermectin harm hair cells, which may worsen hair loss.
5. Can not having enough iron make you lose your hair?
Not getting enough iron can stop hair cells from getting oxygen, which can cause hair to thin and fall out more.
