Decoding Hair Shedding vs Hair Loss: Know the Difference
Hair loss and hair shedding are often considered the same, but they differ.
Hair shedding is a common part of the hair growth cycle, and it refers to the process of hair naturally falling out.
On average, people shed about 50-100 hair daily, varying based on age, gender, and hair type.
Shedding occurs when hair ends its growth cycle, and new hair replaces them.
Hair loss is a condition where hair falls out in excessive amounts and doesn’t grow back at the same rate as it is shed.
This can lead to thinning of hair or baldness. Various factors, including hormonal changes, stress, and medical conditions such as Alopecia areata or scalp infections, can cause hair loss.
Continue reading to know more about hair shedding vs hair loss.
But hair loss is a condition that can lead to thinning hair or baldness and can be caused by various factors.
The overview
| Hair Shedding | Hair Loss |
|---|---|
| Normal physiological process | Abnormal process |
| Happens to everyone | Happens to some people |
| Occurs in cycles throughout the year | This can happen at any time |
| Usually temporary | Can be permanent |
| It involves the shedding of some hair strands | It involves significant hair thinning or balding |
| It can be triggered by stress, changes in diet or hormonal fluctuations | It can be caused by genetic factors, medical conditions, medications or treatments |
| Does not cause noticeable changes in hair volume | Can cause noticeable changes in hair volume and scalp visibility |
| Typically no treatment is necessary | May require medical treatment or intervention |
| Can be managed by maintaining a healthy diet, reducing stress and avoiding tight hairstyles | It may require lifestyle changes, medication, or hair restoration procedures |
Hair shedding vs hair loss: Symptoms
The symptoms of hair shedding and hair loss can be very similar. The main difference is the amount of hair loss.
In hair shedding, you may notice hair fall when you brush or wash your hair.
But you will not see any typical difference in the thickness and density of the hair.
In case of hair loss, you may notice a significant decrease in the amount of hair on the scalp.
Some other hair loss symptoms include a receding hairline, hair thinning, and increased hair loss when you comb.
Causes
Hair shedding is a natural process; hair falls out as a part of the normal hair growth cycle.
Some of the factors that can influence hair shedding are as follows:
- Hormonal changes
- Stress
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Seasonal changes
- Emotional shock or trauma
- Change in diet
With a proper diet and staying stress-free, you can prevent excessive hair shedding.
But in the case of hair loss, hair falls and doesn’t grow back.
A few common causes of hair loss include the following:
- Genetic disorder
- Tight hairstyles
- Scalp infection
- Hormonal imbalance
- Underlying hair conditions
- Biotin deficiency
- Cancer treatment
You can slow down your hair loss through early diagnosis and treatment.
Treatments and preventions
There are many treatment options available for hair loss and shedding.
The best treatment for an individual depends on the underlying cause of hair loss.
Some options available for excessive shedding and hair loss are:
Topical medication
To help promote hair growth and reduce hair loss and shedding, regular scalp care is important.
As a general rule, care for your hair and scalp as you care for your facial skin.
Exfoliate the scalp once a week and always keep it hydrated.
Moreover, you can try some nutrient-rich serum to the mix while exfoliating.
Medications like topical Minoxidil and Finasteride are FDA-approved medicines for treating hair loss.
Scalp massage
Scalp massages are very relaxing. Research suggests that massaging can have a significant impact on the health of your scalp.
Additionally, by improving scalp health, the appearance of your hair may also improve.
Therefore, scalp massages can provide both aesthetic and health benefits.
In a 2016 research, a few candidates received four minutes of scalp massage.
These individuals found an increase in the thickness of their hair.
Stress reduction
Focusing on reducing stress in your day-to-day life will help decrease stress-induced shedding.
Moreover, it will also help better your overall well-being.
Try doing meditation to help you calm your stress levels.
Supplements
Biotin is one of the supplements whose deficiency can cause hair loss and shedding.
Taking biotin shots or oral intake can treat biotin deficiency.
This can help in promoting hair growth as well as healthy nails.
Other than this, Vitamin E also greatly helps prevent hair loss and promote hair growth.
Vitamins A, B, C, and D help in healthy cell growth, which leads to hair growth.
As per a study, Zinc supplements can also benefit Alopecia patients with low zinc levels.
Natural foods
Some foods that can help in promoting hair growth and prevent hair loss are:
- Eggs: They are a great source of protein, biotin, and vitamin B12, all essential for hair growth.
- Beans: Kidney beans and lentils are rich in protein and iron and promote healthy hair growth.
- Oysters: Oysters are a good source of Zinc, promoting healthy hair growth.
- Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are rich vitamin C sources and help in hair growth.
- Leafy vegetables: Vegetables like spinach and kale contain vitamins A and C. Both vitamins help in healthy hair growth.
- Sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes contain beta-carotene, which is converted to vitamin A by the body. Vitamin A helps produce sebum, which keeps the scalp and hair healthy.
Takeaway
It is very important to understand the difference between hair loss and shedding.
Shedding is a natural process where old hair falls out and gives space to new hair.
Hair loss is a more serious problem when hair does not grow back as it should.
Excessive shedding can indicate an underlying condition such as stress, nutritional deficiency, or hormonal changes.
Hair loss can be due to genetics, autoimmune disorder, and medical conditions.
If there is excessive hair shedding and hair does not grow back normally.
You must consult a dermatologist as soon as possible.
In many cases, lifestyle changes, a good diet, and avoiding harsh hairstyles can reduce shedding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my hair falling out or just shedding?
It is normal to shed 50 to 100 hairs a day. In case of increased shedding and hair not growing back, then your hair must be falling. If you see a receding hairline or thinner hair, it can be a sign of hair loss.
What does hair loss look like vs hair shedding?
Hair shedding is falling off 50 to 100 hair a day, and new hair grows in its place. However, in hair loss, the amount of hair falling is greater. You can see receding hairlines and decreased hair density.
Is it normal to lose 300 hairs a day?
No, the normal hair fall rate for shedding is 50 to 100 daily. But the number of hair falling can increase if you face any trauma or stress. If the hair grows back in a few days, it is normal. If not, consult your doctor regarding your hair loss condition.
How many new hairs grow in a day?
Hair growth happens in three stages: anagen, catagen, and telogen. During anagen, hair actively grows. During catagen and telogen, the hair rests and falls out. When 50 to 100 hair is shed daily, new hair follicles enter the anagen phase.
How fast does hair grow every day?
The average growth rate of hair is between 0.3 and 0.4 millimeters per day. Hair increases by approximately 6 inches a year.
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