• What Causes Hair to Shed?

• Is it Normal to Lose Hair in the Shower?

• How to Stop Hair Shedding?

• Take Away

• FAQs

• References

Hey there, lovely ladies! Are you experiencing an unusually high amount of hair falling out lately? If so, you're not alone! Hair shedding is a common concern for many women, and it can be both frustrating and concerning. Whether you're finding clumps of hair in your brush or noticing more strands on your pillow, shedding can be a major source of stress. 

But fear not! In this blog, we're going to delve into the reasons why your hair may be shedding so much and what you can do about it. So, grab a cup of tea, relax, and let's get to the root of the problem!

What Causes Hair to Shed?

Here are some possible reasons why your hair may be shedding:

Tension:

Just like us, our hair can get tensed out too! If you've been going through a tough time lately, whether it's work-related or personal, it can cause your hair to hit the panic button and fall out.

Hormones:

Ah, hormones, the gift that keeps on giving! Fluctuations in hormones can cause your hair to shed, whether it's during pregnancy or menopause, or just a normal part of your monthly cycle.

Heat styling:

Who doesn't love a good blowout or straightening session? Unfortunately, all that heat can do a number on your hair, causing it to become brittle and break off.

Nutrient deficiencies:

Our hair needs certain vitamins and minerals to stay healthy and strong. If you're not getting enough of these essential nutrients, your hair may start to shed.

Genetics:

Sometimes, hair shedding can simply be in your genes. If you have a family history of thinning hair or baldness, you may be more prone to shedding.

Over-styling:

Are you guilty of putting your hair through the wringer? Too much brushing, combing, and tying can cause your hair to become weak and fall out.

Medical conditions:

Certain medical conditions, such as autoimmune diseases or thyroid problems, can cause hair loss as a symptom.

Is it Normal to Lose Hair in the Shower?

The shower - a place to relax, sing your heart out, and apparently, lose hair! But is it normal to see strands of hair going down the drain while you shower? Well, the short answer is - yes, it's totally normal!

In fact, on average, we lose around 50-100 hairs a day, and a good portion of that hair ends up in the shower drain. But don't worry, this shedding is just a part of the hair growth cycle. Our hair goes through three phases - the anagen phase (growth phase), the catagen phase (transition phase), and the telogen phase (resting phase). During the telogen phase, the hair is released from the follicle, and new hair begins to grow in its place.

So, when we're in the shower, the water and shampoo can help loosen the hair that's in the telogen phase, making it easier for it to fall out. Plus, since we're combing or brushing our hair less when we're in the shower, the hair that's ready to shed is more likely to come out.

How to Stop Hair Shedding?

Reduce stress:

Take a deep breath and relax! Finding ways to manage your stress, whether it's through exercise, meditation, or a good old-fashioned bubble bath, can help prevent hair shedding.

Eat a balanced diet:

Your hair needs proper nutrition to stay healthy and strong. Eating a balanced diet rich in protein, iron, and vitamins A, C, and D can help prevent hair shedding.

Avoid heat styling:

As we mentioned earlier, heat styling can damage your hair and cause it to shed. If possible, try to air dry your hair or use low heat settings when styling.

Use a gentle shampoo: 

Harsh chemicals in some shampoos can strip your hair of its natural oils, causing it to become brittle and break off. Look for a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo to help prevent hair shedding.

Limit hair treatments:

Chemical treatments like coloring, relaxing, and perms can weaken your hair and cause it to shed. If possible, try to limit these treatments or opt for more natural alternatives.

Handle your hair with care:

Treat your hair like the delicate flower it is! Avoid over-brushing, tight hairstyles, and rubbing your hair with a towel.

Check your medications:

Some medications, such as antidep-ressants, blood thinners, and chemotherapy drugs, can cause hair shedding as a side effect. If you're experiencing excessive hair loss and you're on medication, talk to your doctor to see if there's an alternative.

Take Away

There you have it, ladies! These are just some of the ways you can help prevent hair shedding and keep your locks looking healthy and beautiful. Remember, a little shedding is normal, but if you're noticing a significant amount of hair loss or other symptoms, it's always a good idea to check in with a professional.

FAQs

Q: Should I be worried about excess hair shedding?

A: If you're losing an excessive amount of hair or noticing bald patches, it may be a good idea to check in with a dermatologist to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

Q: How long will hair shedding last?

A: Hair shedding is a normal part of the hair growth cycle, so it can last for as long as your hair is growing. However, if you're experiencing excessive shedding, it's a good idea to seek professional help.

Q: Does hair regrow after shedding?

A: Yes, hair regrows after shedding. As we mentioned earlier, shedding is a natural part of the hair growth cycle, and new hair will grow in its place. However, if you're experiencing excessive shedding or other symptoms, it's important to seek professional help to determine the underlying cause.

References

Hair Loss Prevention: 22 Tips to Help Save Your Hair, By Ashley Marcin, on March 7, 2023

Everything You Need to Know About Hair Loss, By Kristeen Moore and Rachel Nall, on November 29, 2022

Stay Informed, and Stay Healthy!