Hair Shedding: Understanding the Normal vs. Abnormal

Monali Sharma
Medically reviewed by
Dr. Kaushal

Review medical content on WOW Rx Pharmacy, so that accurate drug use information is easily accessible to everybody.
Dr. Akansha is a licensed Clinical Pharmacologist. She possesses remarkable knowledge in Pharmacovigilance, prescription analysis, drug information, and drug safety services. Additionally, she is a keen learner and an educator.

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Hair Shedding shocked to see

Hair shedding is a natural process that occurs as part of the hair growth cycle. 

It is characterised by the loss of up to 100 hair per day, which is considered normal.

However, some factors can cause your hair to shed more than normal.

Before beginning treatment for hair shedding, it is critical to understand the condition thoroughly.

Keep reading to learn about hair shedding, its symptoms, causes and treatments.

What is hair shedding

Healthy hair sheds every day, and it is perfectly normal to shed hair daily.

If you are experiencing excessive shedding, then it can be a cause for concern. The medical term for this condition is Telogen Effluvium.

But the good thing is the condition might be temporary, and your hair may grow back in around six months.

To understand the condition better, you need to know the three stages of hair growth.

Three stages of hair growthSource: WowRxPharmacy
Hair growth cycle

Anagen (growing) phase

Anagen is the growing stage of the hair growth cycle. 

At this stage, cells at the lower part of hair follicles rapidly divide to form new hair.

Hair follicles then push out the newly formed hair to grow.

It is the longest phase of the growth cycle, as a hair can stay in a growing phase for up to six years.

Around 80% to 90% of your hair is in the growing stage at any given time.

Catagen (transition) phase

The Catagen phase starts as soon as the Anagen phase ends.

This stage is much shorter than the growing phase, lasting about ten days.

During the transition phase, hair follicles shrink, and hair growth decreases.

Also, hair separates from the hair follicle yet remains in its place.

At any given time, only 5% of the hair on your head is in a transition phase.

Telogen (resting) phase

The Telogen phase is the third of the three main phases of hair cycles.

Hair does not grow in this phase, but they don’t fall out either.

At this stage, new hair also starts to form in place of the hair that is in the Telogen phase.

New hair (in the Anagen phase) pushes out the hair that is in the Telogen stage, and the hair growth cycle starts again.

Fact
Some scientists consider the Telogen phase as the resting and shedding phases.

However, some scientists divide this phase into two, namely, Telogen and Exogen, where hair rests in the Telogen phase and sheds in the Exogen phase.

Hair shedding is abnormal when hair prematurely enters the Telogen phase and sheds, and this condition is termed Telogen Effluvium.

Note that shedding of hair is different from hair loss, as the latter occurs when something stops your hair from growing naturally.

Hair shedding symptoms

If you notice your hair everywhere, it may be excessive hair shedding.

You may see an increased amount of hair in the shower drain or on your hairbrush.

In males, hair shedding may look like a receding hairline or widening part.

Your hair texture or quality may change.

In some people, excessive hair shedding can also accompany other symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, and mood changes.

If you are experiencing any of the mentioned symptoms, speaking with a healthcare provider or dermatologist is essential to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.

Hair shedding causes

It is crucial to determine the right cause of hair shedding to determine a proper treatment plan.

Some of the common hair-shedding causes include:

Stress

Stress can also lead to hair-related disordersSource: Pixland_from_Photo_Images
Stress can cause hair shedding

Stress can affect our health in more ways than we know.

It can cause excessive hair shedding by disrupting the normal hair growth cycle.

When your body experiences stress, it triggers the shedding of hair by causing more hair follicles to enter the Telogen phase, leading to excessive shedding.

Stress can also lead to other hair-related disorders, such as Trichotillomania, a condition where an individual compulsively pulls out their own hair as a coping mechanism.

Moreover, stress can indirectly contribute to hair shedding by causing other health issues, such as hormonal imbalance and nutritional deficiency.

Nutritional deficiencies

A lack of certain nutrients, such as biotin, iron, or proteins, can lead to hair fall.

Hair follicles require enough nutrients to maintain healthy hair growth.

If you do not get enough nutrients, your body sends these nutrients to essential bodily functions.

Thus, your hair does not get the nutrients it needs, leading to hair shedding.

If you suspect a nutritional deficiency is causing your hair shedding, speak with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian to get tested and address any nutrient deficiencies through dietary changes or supplements.

Hormonal changes

Hormonal changes in your body can also affect your hair health.

Reduction in Estrogen and Progesterone can trigger an increase in androgen levels, which is responsible for shrinking hair follicles.

Hormonal fluctuations can occur during pregnancy, menopause, and thyroid disorders.

Medication

Certain medications can cause hair shedding as a side effect due to their impact on the hair growth cycle.

Some of the common medicines that can cause hair loss include:

  • Chemotherapy drugs
  • Blood thinners
  • Antidepressants
  • Acne medicines
  • Birth control pills

These medications can cause hair loss by affecting the hair growth cycle.

However, hair loss from medications is temporary and goes away when you stop taking these medicines.

Treatments

Hair shedding, although temporary, can be stressful for many individuals.

Fortunately, there are a number of treatment options available that can help prevent or reduce hair shedding and promote healthier hair growth.

Nutritional supplements

Nutritional supplements can promote healthier hair growthSource: nataliagolubnychaphotos
Various supplements and vitamins

One of the most common causes of Telogen effluvium is a nutritional deficiency, such as iron or biotin.

Nutritional supplements can help address these deficiencies and promote healthier hair growth.

Biotin is a B vitamin that is important for healthy hair growth.

Biotin supplements are available over-the-counter and are often used to treat hair loss

Iron is also essential for healthy hair growth, as it helps carry oxygen to the hair follicles. 

If you suspect a nutritional deficiency is causing your hair shedding, you must consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian to determine the best supplements.

Topical Minoxidil

Minoxidil is a topical medication that is commonly used to treat hair loss. 

It is available over the counter and can be applied directly to the scalp. 

Minoxidil works by improving blood flow to the hair follicles. It can help stimulate hair growth and prevent hair shedding.

Minoxidil is most effective when used consistently over a period of several months. It can take five to six months to see visible results. 

Side effects of Minoxidil can include scalp irritation, itching, and redness. 

Rarely, minoxidil can cause more serious side effects, such as chest pain or rapid heartbeat. 

If you experience severe side effects, seeking immediate medical attention is essential.

Order now:
You can purchase Minoxidil from WowRxPharmacy in different strengths:

Prescription medications

In addition to Minoxidil, several prescription medications can be used to treat hair shedding. 

A dermatologist or healthcare provider typically prescribes these medications and may include the following:

Finasteride

1 mg dose of Finasteride is an oral medication used to treat male pattern baldness.

It works by reducing dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels, a hormone that may cause hair follicles to shrink and stop producing hair. 

Finasteride is only available with a prescription and is not recommended for use by women.

Spironolactone

Spironolactone is a medication often used to treat high blood pressure, but it can also be used to treat hair shedding in women. 

It works by blocking the effects of androgens, hormones that can contribute to hair loss.

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids are medications used to reduce inflammation in the body. 

They can be injected directly into the scalp to help reduce inflammation and promote hair growth.

Hair transplant surgery

Hair transplant surgery may be an option for individuals with more severe hair loss. 

Hair transplant surgery involves replacing hair follicles from one area of the scalp to another where hair is thinning or balding. 

The transplanted hair follicles will start to grow in their new location, resulting in fuller, thicker hair.

A dermatologist or plastic surgeon typically performs hair transplant surgery which can be expensive. 

It can also be lengthy and somewhat uncomfortable, as it involves removing and transplanting individual hair follicles. 

However, hair transplant surgery can provide long-lasting and natural-looking results for individuals with significant hair loss.

Lifestyle changes

In addition to medical treatments, there are several lifestyle changes that can help prevent hair shedding and promote healthy hair growth. 

A balanced diet that includes protein, minerals, and vitamins can help promote hair growth.

As mentioned earlier, stress can contribute to hair shedding, so it’s important to find ways to manage stress, such as through exercise.

Home remedies

Hair thinning can sometimes lead to baldness if not treated timely.
However, apart from some medical treatments mentioned above, you can try some home remedies to help reduce hair shedding and promote healthy hair growth.

Warning
Although home remedies are safe to use, speaking with your doctor to avoid allergic reactions is essential.

Aloe vera

Aloe vera is a natural remedy to help reduce hair shedding. 

It contains enzymes that promote hair growth and prevent hair loss

Apply some fresh aloe vera gel directly to your scalp and Massage it gently for a few minutes. Leave it on for an hour, then rinse it off with warm water.

Onion juice

Onion juice is another effective remedy for excessive hair fall. 

It contains sulfur, which helps to improve blood circulation and stimulate hair growth. Take a few onions and extract the juice using a blender or juicer. 

Apply the juice to your scalp and massage it for a few minutes. Leave it on for thirty minutes, then rinse it with lukewarm water. Repeat this treatment twice a week for the best results.

Coconut oil

Coconut oil is a well-known natural remedy for hair loss

It contains fatty acids that nourish the hair and promote hair growth.

Leave it on for an hour or overnight, then rinse it with a mild shampoo. 

Take some coconut oil and warm it up. Massage it gently to your scalp. Repeat this treatment once a week to see the results.

Green tea

Green tea contains antioxidants that can help prevent hair loss and promote growth. 

Brew a small amount of green tea and let it cool down. 

Apply it to your scalp and gently massage it. Leave it on for an hour, then rinse it with lukewarm water. Repeat this treatment once a week for the best results.

Egg mask

An egg mask is a great remedy for hair shedding.

Eggs contain proteins that help to strengthen the hair and prevent hair loss. 

Take an egg and beat it until it becomes frothy. 

Apply it to your scalp and hair and leave it on for 20 minutes. 

Rinse it with cold water, and then shampoo your hair. Repeat this treatment once a week to see the results.

Takeaway

In summary, excessive hair shedding involves shedding more than the normal range of hair, but it does not typically lead to baldness.

However, excessive shedding needs to be treated properly to avoid hair thinning.

You can take several medications, such as Minoxidil, or Finasteride to help regrow hair.

Besides the conventional treatment plans, you can try some natural remedies such as aloe vera gel, essential oils, and hair masks to keep your hair healthy.

However, consult with your healthcare provider before starting a natural hair regimen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my hair shedding so much?

Hair shedding can be caused by a variety of factors, including hormonal changes, aging, medications, or certain medical conditions. Any of these factors can affect your hair cycle leading to a condition called Telogen Affluvium.

Is hair shedding normal?

Yes, hair shedding can actually be a sign of hair growth. It’s normal to lose 50 to 100 hair per day as part of the natural hair growth cycle. So, while shedding may seem counterintuitive to hair growth, it’s actually a normal part of the process.

Is hair shedding a sign of hair growth?

Yes, hair shedding can actually be a sign of hair growth. It’s normal to shed between 50 and 100 hairs per day as part of the natural hair growth cycle. So, while shedding may seem counterintuitive to hair growth, it’s actually a normal part of the process.

Does rosemary oil cause hair shedding?

No, rosemary is not known to cause hair shedding. In fact, rosemary is often used in hair care products and natural remedies for its potential benefits for hair growth and scalp health. Rosemary contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that may help stimulate hair growth.

How long does the hair shedding last?

The duration of hair shedding can vary depending on the underlying cause. Normal hair shedding typically lasts for a few weeks, as shedding hairs are replaced by new hair. However, if the hair shedding is due to other external factors, in that case, it may last for several months.

Citations:
WowRxPharmacy 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.

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