Experiencing increased hair fall in recent weeks? Here's why seasonal hair shedding can occur
Autumn is a season of change, and for many, it brings about a noticeable increase in hair loss. This phenomenon, known as seasonal hair shedding, is a common occurrence that happens mainly in autumn and, for some, again in spring.
According to dermatologist Dr. Christian Merkel, hair growth is part of a fixed cycle, and there is also a shedding cycle. Hair has three phases - growth (anagen), transition (catagen), and shedding (telogen). The body allows these strands to shift into the shedding phase once the need for UV protection decreases.
During summer, the sun stimulates hair growth hormones, and more hairs enter the growth phase to protect the scalp from the sun's rays. However, as the days grow shorter and UV exposure decreases in autumn, hair growth slows, and more strands enter the shedding phase.
A six-year study of over 800 women confirmed annual periodicity in hair growth, showing "a maximal proportion of telogen hairs in summer" and more hair loss in autumn. The number of shed hairs peaks in late summer and early autumn, with participants losing "about 60 per day, more than double that during the preceding winter."
While seasonal hair loss is a temporary increase in hair loss, continuous or severe hair loss may signal something else. If hair loss continues beyond this period or appears patchy, dermatologists advise seeking professional help to rule out other conditions such as genetic alopecia, thyroid problems, or hormonal imbalances. If hair loss lasts longer than three months, experts recommend a blood test to check for deficiencies or hormonal imbalances.
Dry winter air can make hair brittle, so drinking enough water and using hydrating products is important. Colder weather, reduced humidity, and indoor heating can make strands brittle and prone to breakage. To support healthy hair growth, dermatologist Dr. Emi Arpa recommends eating nutrient-rich foods, specifically foods rich in iron, omega-3s, zinc, and biotin.
Stress, pregnancy, perimenopause, or certain medications can all affect hair cycles. Autumn hair loss is a temporary nuisance for most, but hair loss Google searches in the UK have risen by nearly 400% in the past month, indicating increased concern about this seasonal phenomenon.
In conclusion, seasonal hair loss is a normal physiological process often described as a "reset" of hair follicles. It primarily originates from a natural hair growth cycle where more hairs enter the shedding phase (telogen) simultaneously after a period of increased growth (anagen) during summer. By understanding this process, individuals can take proactive steps to maintain healthy hair during the autumn months.
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