If you’ve ever wondered whether hair growth and hair loss are seasonal, they are. One recent study showed that there seems to be a pattern of shedding hair in the fall, although the reasons for this are not entirely clear.
We do have some ideas, however, why we shed more hair in autumn. The hair loss in autumn is likely linked to hair growth in the spring. There are roughly 100 days between the time hair stops growing and when the hair falls out. And there is a peak in hair growth in the spring. So, it makes sense that there’s a peak in hair loss in the fall.
It’s also possible our bodies are designed to hold on to hair during the summer when hair is most needed to protect the scalp from sunburn.
As the days get shorter, and the weather gets colder, any hormonal changes in our bodies will affect the hair. Hormonal changes play a major role in hair loss.
How can you minimize heavy fall shedding?
- Try to keep stress levels down. Fall is stressful for many people. Summer holidays are over, and kids go back to school. In order to lower your stress, try adding some exercise to your routine or learning mindfulness meditation.
- Eat well. Seriously. Eating foods that are less processed and more colorful can help you to get a lot more nutrition. Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables to ensure you’re getting lots of trace minerals. And add some pumpkin and pumpkin seeds to your diet, both of which are good for hair growth. Get enough calories and enough protein.
- Give yourself a regular, gentle scalp massage. This works best when you’re in the shower, and your head is slick with conditioner. Just a few minutes at a time can make a difference.
The good news is that any shedding you see in the fall will be quickly replaced by a new peak in growth in the spring. Shedding hair in the fall is just part of a larger cyclical growth pattern and is nothing to worry about.
Remember, anyone, experiencing sudden or significant hair loss should see his or her family doctor. We would recommend blood work to see the levels of different hormones and whether you have any vitamin deficiencies. We are here for you when you’re ready to start treatment for hair loss.
If you have any questions about treatment for hair loss or any of our products, we encourage you to call us directly at (844) 280-4680.