If you’re finding more hair in your brush or the shower drain than usual, you’re not alone. It can be a little alarming to see those extra strands, but it’s important to know that some shedding is completely normal. In fact, we all lose between 50 to 100 hairs every single day as part of the natural hair growth cycle. However, when the amount seems excessive, it’s natural to wonder what’s going on.
Your hair is often a reflection of your overall health, and many different factors can influence how much you shed. Let’s look at some of the most common reasons why your hair might be shedding more than usual.
Is It Normal Shedding or Something More?
First, it helps to know the difference between everyday hair loss and a more significant issue. Normal shedding involves losing hairs from all over your scalp, and you typically won’t notice any bald patches. If you’re seeing distinct thinning or large clumps coming out, it might be time to pay closer attention.
Common Culprits Behind Increased Shedding
One of the most frequent triggers for temporary hair shedding is a condition called telogen effluvium. This is when a significant stressor pushes a large number of hair follicles into a resting phase, and they then fall out a few months later. Common triggers for this include:
- Physical or Emotional Stress: A major surgery, illness, or period of high anxiety can be a shock to your system.
- Hormonal Shifts: Events like pregnancy, childbirth, or even stopping birth control pills can cause a temporary increase in shedding.
- Rapid Weight Loss: Dropping a lot of weight quickly can affect your body’s nutrient balance.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Not getting enough iron, vitamin D, or protein can directly impact hair health.
Your Hair Care Habits Matter
Sometimes, the way we treat our hair can contribute to breakage and shedding. Tight hairstyles like ponytails or braids can pull on the roots over time. Using high heat from styling tools frequently or harsh chemical treatments can also weaken the hair shaft, causing it to break off mid-strand, which can be mistaken for shedding from the root.
When to Consider Talking to a Doctor
If your hair shedding is sudden, severe, or accompanied by itching, pain, or visible bald spots, it’s a good idea to speak with a healthcare provider or a dermatologist. They can help rule out underlying medical conditions like thyroid disorders or autoimmune conditions that affect the skin and hair.
Remember, a temporary increase in hair shedding is often your body’s way of responding to a change or stressor. By paying attention to your overall health and being gentle with your hair, you can often help it return to its normal cycle. Be patient with yourself and your hair; it usually takes time to regain its balance.