Why is My Hair Shedding So Much? Understanding the Causes and Solutions
Some hair shedding is normal and part of the natural hair growth cycle.
Excessive hair loss or fall can be a cause of concern, and it t can be distressing to notice hair in your brush, shower floor, or pillow.
According to a study, individuals who smoke cigarettes are more prone to excessive hair shedding.
Various other factors, including hormonal changes, nutritional deficiencies, genetics, lifestyle, and medical conditions, can also lead to hair fall.
Understanding the potential causes of hair shedding can help you identify and address the underlying issues.
It also helps in taking steps to promote healthy hair growth.
This article will explore some common reasons hair sheds excessively and provide insights on managing it.
Why am I shedding so much hair
Severe shedding, or Telogen Effluvium, is frequently a symptom of something wrong.
However, it can take some time for the sign to get observed.
Hair growth is a cycle, it develops, slumbers, and then sheds.
Every hair on your head is in a distinct stage of that cycle at any one time.
The cycle requires time, according to dermatologist Shilpi Khetarpal, MD.
Therefore, any significant shedding occurring today is a direct effect of three months ago.
Several factors can contribute to excessive shedding. Here are a few of the typical offenders.
Certain medications
You should reexamine the possible drug side effects to see if hair loss is on it.
Pregnancy
After giving birth, it is common for new moms to experience increased hair shedding, which typically reaches its peak around four months postpartum.
However, when their child turns one year old, most women usually regain normal hair growth.
If, after one year, your hair has not returned to its usual fullness, it may be advisable to seek advice from a dermatologist.
Stress
Extreme stress can trigger an immune system attack on hair follicles, causing hair loss.
Stress and anxiety can slow hair growth, which increases shedding when you brush.
Menopause and hormone imbalances
Hair loss is a common menopausal symptom because Estrogen and Progesterone levels drop.
Besides hair loss, here are a few more symptoms of menopause:
- Irregular menstrual cycle
- Dry skin
- Night sweats
- Weight gain
- Dry vagina
The extra strain on the body would make hair loss even more severe.
Some women may experience thinning and loss even after discontinuing hormone-based birth control.
It happens because of fluctuations in Estrogen levels and other hormone changes, which can interrupt the hair lifecycle.
Lack of vitamin B
Hair thinning or loss can be a symptom of a deficiency in specific vitamins and minerals.
A lack of red meat in the diet or a vegetarian lifestyle is a cause of thin hair, according to dermatologists.
Iron, abundant in red meat and other animal diets, aids hair and body growth.
Lack of iron in the diet can exacerbate anemia, which is more common in women because of menstrual blood loss.
Foods that stop hair shedding
Many people overlook the fact that diet also plays a crucial role when it comes to preventing hair loss.
Nutritional deficiencies can lead to hair loss, but eating the right food can help you grow hair.
Let’s look at the best food to prevent hair loss.
Leafy Greens
Green and leafy vegetables are full of protein and help boost hair growth. Some of them are:
- Collards
- Kale
- Spinach
These contain vitamins A and C, iron, beta-carotene, and folate.
Lack of iron is one of the most common nutritional deficiencies in the world, as stated by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Vitamin A is another essential nutrient that helps keep hair healthy and is in leafy greens.
It helps your body make sebum, which keeps the scalp moist and protects your hair.
Fruits
Fruits that are rich in compounds are known to be essential for healthy hair and protecting hair follicles.
- Cherries
- Apricots
- Oranges
- Berries
- Grapes
Vitamin C also helps your body take in iron and make collagen, a protein that helps build hair and keeps it from falling out.
Eggs
Eggs are like natureâs multivitamins because they contain various vitamins, nutrients, and minerals.
They are a great source of protein, which is essential if you want to keep your hair from falling out.
A low-protein diet slows down hair growth, which can cause hair loss and less growth.
Biotin, a B vitamin found in eggs, is vital for healthy hair, skin, and nails.
Fatty fish
Some types of fish consist of essential fatty acids, including Omega-3s and vitamin D, are:
- Mackerel
- Tuna
- Herring
- Salmon
Fatty fish is a good source of protein, selenium, and vitamin B, which helps promote healthy hair.
It was proved according to an article published in 2017 by Dermatology Practical and Conceptual.
Conclusion
Excessive hair shedding can be attributed to various factors such as hormonal changes, genetics, medical conditions, and lifestyle factors.
Identifying the underlying cause is crucial for proper management.
Seeking professional advice and changing diet, lifestyle, and hair care routines can help reduce hair shedding and promote healthy hair growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I stop my hair from shedding so much?
To reduce excessive hair shedding, consider addressing potential underlying causes such as hormonal imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, and lifestyle factors. Maintaining a balanced diet, managing stress, and using gentle hair care practices can promote healthy hair growth and reduce shedding.
Why am I shedding more hair than usual?
Various factors, including hormonal changes, nutritional deficiencies, genetics, lifestyle, and medical conditions, can cause excessive hair shedding. Identifying the underlying cause through medical evaluation and addressing it accordingly can help reduce hair shedding.
When should I be worried about excessive hair shedding?
You should be concerned about excessive hair shedding if it persists for an extended period. It’s best to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and guidance.
How can I reduce shedding naturally?
Regular scalp massages, a balanced diet with adequate nutrients like biotin and zinc, gentle hair care practices, avoiding heat styling tools, and staying hydrated can help reduce hair shedding naturally.
What foods stop hair shedding?
Foods rich in nutrients like biotin, zinc, iron, and protein. These food include eggs, fish, nuts, seeds, leafy greens, and legumes, which can help promote healthy hair growth and reduce hair shedding.
WowRx uses only high-quality sources while writing our articles. Please read our content information policy to know more about how we keep our content reliable and trustworthy.
