If you have ever noticed increased hair loss during a specific time of year, you are probably experiencing what is known as seasonal hair loss. If you want to learn more about this topic, stay with us. In this blog article, we will delve into the causes of seasonal hair loss and how to combat it. Don’t miss it!
The Hair Cycle
Hair follows a natural process of growth, rest, and renewal, which helps maintain hair health and density over time. Understanding the phases of the hair cycle is essential to recognize normal patterns of hair growth and loss, as well as to identify potential hair problems.
- Growth phase. The anagen phase is the active growth stage of hair. It can last between 2 and 7 years, depending on genetic and hormonal factors. During this phase, the cells at the hair root divide rapidly, allowing continuous hair growth.
- Transition phase. The catagen phase is a short transition stage lasting between 2 and 3 weeks. During this phase, hair growth stops and the hair follicle shrinks.
- Rest and shedding phase. The telogen phase is the resting stage in the hair cycle. It can last from 2 to 4 months, during which hair does not grow but remains in the follicle. At the end of the telogen phase, the hair detaches and falls out, allowing a new hair to start growing in its place.
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Start of a new cycle. After the hair falls out, the hair follicle re-enters the anagen phase, beginning a new growth cycle. This continuous recycling is what helps maintain healthy and dense hair. Approximately 85-90% of hairs on the scalp are in the anagen phase at any given time, while the rest are in the catagen and telogen phases.
Seasonal Loss or Something Else?
Besides the phases that complete the hair growth cycle, there are some factors that can promote increased hair loss at certain times.
For example, extreme stress can cause a premature transition to the catagen phase, which can lead to temporary hair loss.
Hormones also have a significant influence on the hair cycle. For example, high levels of androgenic hormones can shorten the anagen phase and prolong the telogen phase, contributing to seasonal hair loss.
A diet poor in essential nutrients can contribute to seasonal hair loss.
In addition to the seasons, exposure to adverse environmental factors can weaken hair and increase its loss. Prolonged sun exposure can damage hair and the scalp, making it more susceptible to hair loss. Meanwhile, air pollution can deposit harmful particles on the scalp and hair, causing damage and shedding.
How to Combat Seasonal Hair Loss?
Seasonal hair loss is a natural phenomenon that many people experience during certain times of the year, especially in autumn.
To combat this increased hair loss, there are some tips, hair care and hair treatments that can help reduce it.
- If your diet does not meet your nutritional needs, consider taking specific hair supplements, or single-dose ampoules of vitamin B8 or B5, containing biotin, vitamin D, zinc, and iron.
- As mentioned, stress can worsen hair loss. Implement stress management techniques in your daily life to combat seasonal hair loss. You can do regular exercise, meditation, yoga, and maintain good sleep hygiene.
- Transdermal therapy allows applying treatments to the hair without needles. This procedure helps stimulate hair growth and regeneration.
- Choose hair products designed to strengthen hair and prevent its loss. Shampoos with ingredients like biotin, caffeine, and ginseng can help strengthen hair. Also consider topical treatments containing active ingredients to fight hair loss.
In short, adopting healthy lifestyle habits, managing stress, and maintaining a balanced diet rich in essential vitamins and minerals can help prevent seasonal hair loss.