It happens to all of us. You’re brushing your hair, washing it in the shower, or just running your fingers through it, and you see a few strands come loose. It’s easy to feel a pang of worry, but what if we told you that this is usually a completely normal part of your body’s natural cycle? In fact, losing a certain amount of hair every day is a sign of a healthy, renewing scalp.
So, how much is normal? On average, most people lose between 50 to 100 hairs each day. This number can fluctuate a bit based on your hair’s natural thickness, your age, and even your genetics. Think about it—the average scalp has about 100,000 hair follicles, each at a different stage of its growth cycle. Shedding the old hairs makes way for new ones to grow.
When Shedding Might Be a Sign of Something More
While daily shedding is normal, there are times when you might notice more hair in your brush or on the shower floor than usual. This increased shedding, often called telogen effluvium, can be triggered by significant life events. Common culprits include major stress, hormonal changes after pregnancy, a high fever or illness, or even starting a new medication. This type of shedding is usually temporary, and your hair often returns to its normal cycle once the trigger has passed.
Simple Ways to Support Healthy Hair
Want to give your hair its best chance to stay strong and healthy? A balanced diet rich in protein, iron, and vitamins is a great foundation. Gentle hair care can also make a big difference. Try using a wide-tooth comb on wet hair instead of a brush, and avoid hairstyles that pull too tightly on the roots. When you treat your hair gently, you help minimize unnecessary breakage.
When to Consider Talking to a Professional
If you’re consistently losing more than 100-150 hairs a day, noticing visible thinning or bald patches, or if the shedding is causing you concern, it’s a good idea to speak with a dermatologist. They can help determine if there’s an underlying condition, such as genetic hair loss or a thyroid issue, and recommend a treatment plan that’s right for you.
Seeing a few strands of hair fall out is typically just part of your body’s natural renewal process. By paying attention to what’s normal for you and practicing gentle hair care, you can support your hair’s health and feel more confident about the hairs you find on your shoulders.