Ever noticed that there’s more hair on your brush, on your pillow or clogging the shower drain at certain times of year? If you have, then you’re not going crazy, and you’re not alone! It’s a phenomenon known as seasonal hair shedding. Once thought to be a hair loss myth, it’s now understood that it’s a common occurrence for many people. Join us as we take a deep dive into what seasonal hair shedding is and what causes it. And, the ways to combat it.
What Is Seasonal Hair Shedding?
It’s when individuals experience an increased amount of hair loss during specific times of the year. On average, we lose around 50-100 hairs every day. It’s completely normal and is part of the hair’s natural growth cycle. This consists of a growth phase (called anagen), a resting phase (catagen) and a shedding phase (telogen). This natural shedding helps maintain the balance and health of your hair. But when we shed significantly more hairs than that, then it is very likely that there is an issue causing it which needs to be addressed. And if it’s happening at certain times of the year, then seasonal hair shedding may well be the culprit.
What Causes Seasonal Hair Shedding?
Until comparatively recently, many scientists felt the phenomenon simply didn’t exist. But there’s now a wide amount of research indicating the condition is very real, and is most likely to happen during the autumn. It can also occur in the spring. However, the primary cause (or causes) still has not been definitively identified by medical science. But there are some strong candidates!
Photoperiodism
Some studies indicate that changes to light and temperature can affect the hair growth cycle. With days growing longer and shorter, warmer and colder during spring and autumn, this does make some sense!
Hormonal Changes
Hormones can have a big influence on the hair cycle. And, studies have indicated that human hormones do fluctuate with the seasons. In particular, the hormone cortisol is known to play a role in the regulation of hair growth, and elevated levels can contribute to hair shedding. Cortisol levels are known to increase in many people as we enter autumn.
UV Rays
Soaking up the rays in the summer months inevitably causes damage to the hair and scalp. This makes it more prone to shedding later on in the year.
Stress & Seasonal Hair Shedding
Many of us struggle with our mood when seasons change, particularly when the nights draw in and colder weather comes. Stress is well known to contribute to hair loss – and it also causes cortisol levels to rise.
Does It Affect Everyone?
Seasonal hair shedding in late summer can affect both men and women. This is regardless of their age, their race and where they live. Some studies do suggest that it may be more prevalent in women. The received wisdom points to hormonal changes, but there’s no conclusive evidence – yet. It certainly seems to be more widely reported amongst women. But, that could be down to our generally greater level of hair awareness!
How To Fight Seasonal Hair Shedding
Ok, so now we have a better understanding of the phenomenon, and we know it’s commonplace. But even if it is temporary, excessive hair shedding can be an unpleasant and worrying experience. There are effective strategies we should all follow to combat it and promote maximum hair health. And not just seasonally, but all year round.
Diet
One of the best ways to fight seasonal hair shedding is maintaining a healthy diet, packed with the nutrients, vitamins and minerals that strengthen hair and promote growth. Fish, lean meats, nuts, pulses and leafy greens will all help lay the foundation of great hair health. And make sure brilliant hair supplements are part of your daily regimen. Hair Gain Hair Capsules and Gummies, powered by Anagain™, are scientifically formulated and proven to support hair health whilst fighting hair shed.
Managing Stress
Keeping on top of stress is crucial in keep your body and mind healthy while reducing the impact of hormonal changes on your hair. Especially if you’re prone to seasonal affective disorder (SAD) when autumn comes round. Regular exercise, relaxation techniques like yoga and mindfulness will all help you feel less stressed and more positive.
Seasonal Hair Shedding: Taking Care of Your Hair
While a great diet and hair supplements will help combat hair fall from the inside, we need to give our hair a boost on the outside too. Avoid using harsh treatments such as chemical dyes; give natural alternatives a try instead. Air-dry your hair wherever possible and if you must use those heat-styling tools, turn the heat down low.
In the summer, slap a hat or scarf on to protect your hair from UV damage. And finally, make sure you use great topical treatments – our Hair Gain Hair Mask and new Scalp Foam intensely hydrate and nourish the scalp and hair. Used together, they reduce hair breakage and fall by up to 60% from the first use*. Make them part of your hair health regimen with our Hair Capsules and Gummies, and you’ll help combat seasonal hair shedding – inside and out.
*Independently tested (brushing test) May 2023, results achieved when tested as a regime with the Hair Gain Hair Mask
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