Seasonal hair loss: how to recognize it and how to Keep it under control
Both women and men might at some point face the problem of seasonal hair loss. Although this is a normal process of the hair life cycle, if you notice something that worries you or if the hair loss does not subside after a few weeks, it is important to seek the advice of a pharmacist or dermatologist.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, it is normal to lose about 50 to 100 hair a day: when shampooing, after drying the hair, or during sleep when the head rubs against the pillow. It is also normal at certain times of the year to experience more intense hair loss. But where does “normal” or seasonal hair loss stop and when do you need to take action to protect the health and density of your hair?
What is seasonal hair loss?
To know when to be concerned you need to know what we mean when we talk about seasonal hair loss. Each follicle in our hair has a specific life cycle: from the regeneration phase (growth) to the telogen phase (rest) and finally to the catagen phase (fall). According to research, hair reaches its peak in the telogen phase (rest) in summer, which means that autumn and the beginning of winter are the time of the catagen phase (fall). It is during this phase that you are most likely to be concerned about hair loss!
Is your hair loss seasonal or do you need to investigate?
Although it is normal for many hairs to fall out every day, we should not rest on our laurels thinking that hair loss is seasonal and will eventually stop. If you are concerned about hair loss do not delay visiting the dermatologist to get a valid diagnosis. Hair loss may be due to androgenetic alopecia or it may be the result of severe stress or medication (telogen hair loss) and even be related to a disease.
Can COVID disease cause hair loss?
Besides the change of seasons, there is another possible explanation as to why you are losing more hair recently: You may have contracted COVID! Research has shown that some people experience hair loss as a long-term side effect after contracting the virus, due to the stress the infection causes on the body. However, although it has been observed as a phenomenon, the process of how the virus affects hair loss has not yet been clarified.
Frequently asked questions about hair loss
How long does seasonal hair loss last?
Seasonal hair loss is temporary. Usually, when there is no underlying cause, the period of hair loss lasts for a few weeks or a few months. If you have noticed that your hair is falling out more than usual, you don’t need to focus on it, but it is helpful to set a reminder on your phone to check back in a few weeks to recheck the situation. If it hasn’t stopped by then, visit your dermatologist who can assess the situation.
Will seasonal hair loss have a noticeable effect on my hair?
If you are just experiencing seasonal hair loss, it will not make much difference to the density and quality of your hair and will soon stop. However, if you notice a big difference in the volume of your hair or notice that the scalp is starting to show through in places, this may indicate an underlying cause that should be investigated.
Something else that matters in determining whether seasonal hair loss will affect the appearance of your hair is its original density. If your hair is very thick and normal hair loss has not started due to genetics or age, then you will not notice a difference. If your hair is already thinner, then seasonal hair loss can affect the image you see in the mirror.
How can I prevent or reduce hair loss?
If you are experiencing seasonal hair loss, it should subside on its own in a few weeks. If you want to support your hair’s natural regeneration process or prevent hair loss, you can seek the advice of your pharmacist for vitamins and supplements to boost hair health and if the problem is more severe, many conservative hair loss treatments can help. In this case, it is important to consult a specialist. In our pharmacy, there is always an expert hair loss and hair care consultant who will advise you on the best solutions for you. We have selected high-quality products to combat hair loss and enhance the health of your hair and scalp skin, with a proven track record of effectiveness and safety.