Stop the Shed: Tips to Combat Hair Shedding
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What is Hair Shedding?
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How to Stop Hair Shedding?
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Reasons for Hair Shedding
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Hair Shedding vs Hair Loss
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Take Away
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FAQs
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References
Hair shedding is a natural and inevitable process that happens to all of us. Whether you're a man or a woman, young or old, you will lose hair every day. It's estimated that the average person sheds between 50 and 100 hairs per day, which may seem like a lot, but it's actually just a tiny fraction of the 100,000 to 150,000 hairs on our heads. However, sometimes hair shedding can become excessive, and that's when it can become a cause for concern. In this blog, we'll take a closer look at hair shedding, why it happens, and what you can do about it. So, grab a cup of tea, sit back, and let's get started!
What is Hair Shedding?
Hair shedding is the natural process of losing hair from the scalp. It is a normal part of the hair growth cycle, which has three phases: the anagen phase (the active growth phase), the catagen phase (the transitional phase), and the telogen phase (the resting phase). During the telogen phase, the hair follicle rests for a few months, and then the hair strand falls out, making way for new hair to grow in its place.
Hair shedding can occur at different rates and frequencies for different people. Some people may shed more hair than others due to factors such as age, genetics, hormonal changes, tension, or certain medical conditions. However, if the rate of hair shedding becomes excessive, it can lead to noticeable thinning or balding, which may be a cause for concern.
How to Stop Hair Shedding?
Here are some ways to help reduce excessive hair shedding:
Maintain a healthy diet:
Eating a balanced diet that includes protein, iron, and other essential nutrients can help promote healthy hair growth and reduce hair shedding.
Reduce Tension:
Tension can contribute to hair shedding, so practising relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing can help reduce tension levels and promote healthy hair growth.
Avoid harsh treatments:
Chemical treatments like colouring, perming, or straightening can damage hair and contribute to hair shedding. Avoid these treatments as much as possible or minimise their use.
Use gentle hair care products:
Harsh shampoos, conditioners, or styling products can also damage hair and contribute to hair shedding. Use gentle, sulphate-free hair care products that are designed for your hair type.
Avoid tight hairstyles:
Tight hairstyles like braids, ponytails, or buns can pull on the hair follicles and cause hair shedding. Avoid these styles or wear them loosely to reduce tension on the scalp.
Reasons for Hair Shedding
There are several reasons why someone may experience hair shedding. Here are some common reasons:
Genetics:
Hair loss or shedding can be hereditary, meaning it runs in the family.
Hormonal changes:
Hormonal changes due to pregnancy, menopause, or thyroid disorders can cause hair shedding.
Tension:
Tension can cause hair shedding as it disrupts the hair growth cycle.
Nutritional deficiencies:
A lack of essential nutrients such as iron, protein, and biotin can lead to hair shedding.
Medications:
Certain medications, such as chemotherapy drugs, can cause hair shedding as a side effect.
Autoimmune disorders:
Autoimmune disorders like alopecia areata can cause hair shedding by attacking hair follicles.
Infections:
Scalp infections like ringworm or folliculitis can cause hair shedding.
Hairstyling practices:
Tight hairstyles, heat styling, or chemical treatments can damage hair and cause shedding.
Age:
Hair shedding is a natural part of the ageing process, and it may increase as a person gets older.
Hair Shedding vs Hair Loss
Hair shedding and hair loss are two different things, although they are often used interchangeably. Here's how they differ:
Hair shedding is a natural process of losing hair from the scalp. It is a normal part of the hair growth cycle, which has three phases: the anagen phase (the active growth phase), the catagen phase (the transitional phase), and the telogen phase (the resting phase).
Hair loss, on the other hand, is an abnormal and excessive loss of hair from the scalp. It can occur due to a variety of reasons, such as genetics, hormonal changes, medications, medical conditions, or hair styling practices. Unlike hair shedding, hair loss may not be a natural part of the hair growth cycle and may not be reversible.
In summary, hair shedding is a normal and natural process of losing hair from the scalp, whereas hair loss is an abnormal and excessive loss of hair that may be a sign of an underlying medical condition. While shedding 50-100 hairs per day is normal, if you're noticing more hair loss than usual or patches of baldness, it's important to see a doctor to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
Take Away
Don't fret over a few fallen follicles! Hair shedding is a natural part of the hair growth cycle, and shedding 50-100 hairs a day is normal. To reduce excessive shedding, eat healthily, relax, use gentle hair care products, avoid tight hairstyles, and seek medical advice if needed. Keep calm and comb on!
FAQs
Q: Will hair grow back after shedding?
A: Yes, in most cases hair will grow back after shedding. Shedding is a natural part of the hair growth cycle, and once the hair follicle enters the anagen phase, a new hair strand will grow in its place.
Q: What is the maximum hair fall in a day?
A: The maximum amount of hair fall in a day can vary, but it is generally considered normal to shed between 50-100 hairs per day.
Q: When should I be worried about hair shedding?
A: You should be worried about hair shedding if you notice sudden or excessive shedding, or if you see patches of baldness or thinning hair. If you're concerned, it's important to see a doctor to determine the cause of the shedding and appropriate treatment.
References
Everything You Need to Know About Hair Loss, By Kristeen Moore and Rachel Nall, on November 29, 2022
