As the fall season sets in, you might notice more hair in your brush or shower drain. While it can be unsettling, seasonal hair shedding is a common occurrence. As someone who has been a hairdresser for 35 years, I’ve seen this happen to my clients year after year, which is why I want to shed light on why it happens and how to handle it.
Why Does Fall Hair Shedding Happen?
Hair follows a growth cycle, and during the summer, more hair stays in the growth phase to protect the scalp from the sun. When fall arrives, some of that hair enters the resting (telogen) phase and naturally sheds. This is linked to changes in daylight and temperature, which trigger a mild increase in hair shedding. After decades in the industry, I’ve observed that this seasonal change is completely natural, but it can still catch people off guard.
What’s Normal?
Typically, shedding 50-100 hairs a day is normal, but during the fall, that can increase to about 150 hairs per day. If this lasts for a couple of months and your hair remains healthy, it’s likely just part of the natural cycle.
When to Worry
Through years of working with clients, I’ve learned to spot the difference between normal shedding and something more concerning. If you notice any of the following, it may be time to seek professional advice:
- Excessive hair loss or clumps of hair.
- Sudden or unusual shedding, often linked to stress or illness.
- Noticeable thinning or bald spot
How to Manage Fall Shedding
Even though seasonal shedding is natural, there are ways to minimize its effects:
- Be gentle with your hair and avoid aggressive styling.
- Take care of your scalp with nourishing treatments and gentle massages.
- Use the right products—I highly recommend my Scalp Nourishment Treatment drops, specifically formulated to maintain scalp health and create an optimal environment for hair growth. With ingredients like glycerin to lock in moisture and lactic acid to gently exfoliate, it helps to reduce shedding while keeping your scalp balanced and hydrated. This product is essential during shedding season to ensure your scalp remains in its best condition.
- Eat a nutrient-rich diet with vitamins and minerals that support hair health.
- Manage stress, as it can worsen hair loss.
- Consult a specialist if shedding persists or worsens.
