In this article:
- Hair Growth Cycles
- Seasonal Changes in Hair
- Why Fall Sees Increased Hair Shedding?
- How to Manage Seasonal Hair Loss?
Summary
- Hair shedding peaks in late summer and fall due to seasonal changes that shift hair from the growth to the resting phase.
- Shorter daylight hours, cooler temperatures, and increased stress can all contribute to hair loss in fall.
- To manage seasonal shedding, prioritize a balanced diet, stress reduction, scalp massage, and good sleep.
- For persistent or severe hair loss, consult a dermatologist or trichologist for specialized guidance.
As summer fades into autumn, you might notice more hair on your brush or in the shower drain. This isn’t just your imagination—research shows that hair shedding often peaks around August and September. During this time, the number of hair follicles in the active growth phase drops significantly, prompting many to transition into the resting phase. The result? A seasonal hair loss surge that can leave you feeling alarmed. Let’s dive into why this happens and how to manage it!
Hair Growth Cycles
Let’s take a closer look at the hair growth cycle! It’s made up of four main phases: anagen, catagen, telogen, and exogen. Each phase plays a vital role in how your hair grows and sheds, so understanding them can really help you get to know your hair better.
- Anagen Phase: This is where the magic happens—the active growth phase! The hair shaft is produced from the hair follicle, and this phase can last anywhere from two to eight years for scalp hair, while eyebrow hair might only stay in this phase for two to three months. During anagen, the matrix cells in the hair bulb are busy multiplying, forming the hair shaft made of proteins. The dermal papilla at the base of the follicle is crucial in regulating how many matrix cells there are, which impacts hair size.
- Catagen Phase: This transitional phase lasts about two weeks and signals the end of the anagen phase. During catagen, hair follicles start to regress, and the hair detaches from the dermal papilla. You’ll see programmed cell death of the epithelial cells in the hair bulb, which shrinks the hair follicle.
- Telogen Phase: After catagen, the hair enters the telogen phase, a resting period that lasts around two to three months. About 9% of the hair on your scalp is usually in this phase. Old hair hangs out in the follicle while new hair develops at the base. If the anagen phase gets cut short, it can lead to excessive shedding known as telogen effluvium (TE).
- Exogen Phase: This is when the old hair is shed as the new hair continues to grow, pushing it out. The exogen phase wraps up the hair cycle, allowing the follicle to start fresh with a new anagen phase.
Seasonal Changes
Hair naturally sheds in cycles. This can be especially noticeable during seasonal changes. Many people wonder, “Is it normal for hair to fall out in the fall?” Yes, it often is! As the seasons change, factors like temperature, humidity, and daylight hours can influence hair shedding patterns.
Why Fall Sees Increased Hair Shedding
- Seasonal Changes in Light: As daylight hours shorten in the fall, your body might adjust its hair growth cycle accordingly. Reduced sunlight can affect melatonin and other hormones that regulate hair growth, causing more follicles to enter the telogen phase. This shift can lead to increased shedding as hairs are pushed out simultaneously.
- Temperature and Humidity: The cooler temperatures and lower humidity of fall can also affect your hair. Drier conditions might lead to increased breakage and shedding. Your body might naturally shed older hair to make way for new growth during this transition.
- Stress and Lifestyle Factors: With fall comes changes in routines—like going back to school or work—which can ramp up stress levels. Stress is known to influence hair growth and can worsen conditions like telogen effluvium, causing hair follicles to enter the telogen phase prematurely and leading to more shedding.
How to manage Seasonal Hair Loss
- Check your hormonal levels, especially the ratios of estrogen and testosterone, as they can affect hair growth. Consider having your thyroid hormones tested, too.
- Make sure you’re eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals that support hair health. While supplementation isn’t always necessary for everyone, deficiencies in iron (ferritin) or other nutrients can lead to hair loss.
- Since stress can disrupt the hair cycle, incorporating mindfulness, meditation, or regular exercise can really help keep things in check.
- Do Scalp Massage – It’s a simple way to boost blood flow to your hair follicles.
- And don’t forget the basics—prioritize good sleep. Poor sleep, negatively impact the hair cycle and contribute to loss.
If you’re dealing with severe or persistent hair loss, it’s definitely a good idea to consult a dermatologist or trichologist. They can help get to the root of the issue, whether it’s hormonal changes, nutritional deficiencies, or something else. These professionals have the expertise to recommend specific treatments tailored just for you.
Keep in mind that some shedding is completely normal and part of the natural hair growth cycle. It’s common to lose a few strands, especially during seasonal changes. Remember, your hair goes through phases, and a little shedding can be a sign that new growth is on the way! So, try not to stress too much about the occasional clump of hair on your brush. Just keep an eye on any significant changes, and embrace the journey of maintaining healthy hair. You’ve got this!
Sources:
Randall VA, Ebling FJ. Seasonal changes in human hair growth. Br J Dermatol. 1991 Feb;124(2):146-51.
