Seeing strands of hair in your brush or clogging your shower drain can be concerning, especially if you're noticing more than usual. Understanding the difference between normal hair shedding and hair loss is essential to maintaining healthy hair and knowing when to seek help.
At Samuel Chapman Salon, we're here to guide you through these changes, so you can keep your hair looking and feeling its best.
What Is Hair Shedding?
Hair shedding is a natural and expected process. Each day, you lose about 100 to 150 hairs as part of your hair's growth cycle.
This process involves four stages:
Growth (anagen)
Transition (catagen)
Rest (telogen)
Shedding (exogen).
Shedding can increase due to factors such as stress, hormonal changes, or dietary shifts.
While this can be alarming, it’s often temporary and manageable with a balanced approach to hair care and lifestyle adjustments.
What Is Hair Loss?
Hair loss occurs when hair stops growing and falls out without re-entering the growth phase. This can result in noticeable thinning or bald patches.
Common triggers for hair loss include:
Hormonal changes
Extreme diets
Certain medications
or
Conditions like alopecia areata, an autoimmune disorder that causes the body to attack its own hair follicles.
Unlike typical shedding, hair loss requires targeted attention and treatment.
How to Differentiate Between Hair Shedding and Hair Loss
Shedding
Part of the normal hair cycle, often temporary and influenced by lifestyle factors such as stress, diet, or hormonal changes.
Hair Loss
Often more persistent and linked to underlying conditions, resulting in noticeable thinning, patchiness, or prolonged hair fall.
If you’re noticing a visibly thinner appearance or if your shedding seems excessive and prolonged, it’s time to seek professional advice.
Hair shedding is considered excessive if it doesn't stop on its own after 90 days, or if other symptoms are present, such as itching, pain, or sensitivity. You should also see a doctor if you notice you're losing more hair than usual.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you experience unexpected hair loss, consistent excessive shedding, or if your scalp feels tender, it’s advisable to consult with a professional. A dermatologist can help diagnose the cause, and an endocrinologist may be beneficial if you suspect hormonal imbalances are to blame.
Tips for Maintaining Healthy Hair
Daily Scalp Massage
A few minutes of scalp massage each day can improve blood circulation, reduce tension, and help maintain healthy hair growth.
Avoid Heavy Oils
Applying heavy oils to your scalp can clog hair follicles, which might hinder growth.
Limit Shampooing
Washing your hair every other day instead of daily can prevent dryness and scalp irritation.
Balance Your Diet
Ensure your diet is rich in essential vitamins and minerals like iron, vitamin D, zinc, and biotin, which are crucial for healthy hair growth. Nutritional gaps can directly affect hair health.
Manage Stress
Chronic stress can lead to excessive shedding or even trigger hair loss conditions. Regular stress management techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or even daily walks can help maintain your overall well-being and support hair health.
Gentle Hair Care Routine
Opt for gentle shampoos and conditioners that are sulfate-free and packed with nourishing ingredients. Avoid excessive heat styling, tight hairstyles, and harsh chemical treatments that can weaken hair.
Check Your Hormone Levels
Hormonal imbalances can play a significant role in hair thinning and loss. If you’re noticing changes, it might be helpful to consult with a healthcare provider to assess your hormone levels and discuss potential treatments or lifestyle adjustments.
Targeted Hair Treatments
Products like minoxidil can be effective for addressing thinning hair and promoting regrowth. Additionally, treatments like low-level laser therapy or PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy can provide targeted support. Always consult a professional before starting new treatments.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you’re experiencing excessive shedding that leads to noticeable thinning, prolonged hair fall, or tenderness of the scalp, it’s advisable to see a dermatologist or trichologist.
Professional assessment can help identify the cause and develop a personalised treatment plan to restore hair health.
Final Thoughts
Remember, while hair shedding is a normal and natural process, consistent or excessive shedding that leads to visible thinning may need professional intervention.
At Samuel Chapman Salon, we’re here to support you in maintaining your hair’s health. Whether it's through personalised hair care routines or professional guidance, understanding your hair’s needs is the first step toward keeping it vibrant and strong.
Book Your Hair Appointment Now
Call 01273 323597
Online samuelchapmansalon.com
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