Noticing a few extra hairs in your brush or circling the drain can be a worrying experience. It’s a change many of us notice at some point, and it often leads to one big question: is my hair actually thinning? It’s completely normal to shed between 50 to 100 hairs a day as part of the natural growth cycle. But when that number seems to climb, it’s time to pay closer attention.
Your Part Is Telling a Story
One of the most common early signs of hair thinning is a widening part. Take a look at your hairline in a bright light. Is the line of your part looking broader or less dense than it used to? This happens when the hair on either side of the part loses volume, making the scalp more visible. It’s a subtle change that often creeps up over time.
Changes in Your Ponytail
If you regularly wear your hair up, your ponytail can be a great gauge. Pay attention to its circumference. Does the ponytail feel noticeably thinner or smaller when you wrap an elastic around it? A shrinking ponytail is a tangible sign that the overall density of your hair is decreasing.
More Scalp, Less Hair
Increased scalp visibility is a key indicator. This doesn’t just apply to your part. Look at the crown of your head in a mirror or take a photo from above. Do you see more of your scalp, especially under harsh bathroom lighting? When hair strands become finer or fewer, the scalp becomes more prominent, which is a classic sign of thinning.
When Your Hairline Shifts
For many, thinning begins at the hairline. Keep an eye on your temples and the very front of your hairline. Is it receding further back than before? You might notice small, fine baby hairs in these areas, which can be a sign of miniaturization, a process where hair follicles produce thinner, weaker strands over time.
Listen to Your Brush and Shower
While daily shedding is normal, consistently large clumps of hair in your brush, on your pillow, or clogging the shower drain are a red flag. If you find yourself clearing the drain after every wash, it’s a sign that your shedding may have increased beyond the typical rate.
Noticing these signs can be unsettling, but you’re not alone. Recognizing them is the first, most powerful step toward addressing the issue. By paying attention to these subtle changes, you can take proactive steps to care for your hair and seek guidance if needed.