Seasonal Hair Loss: Why Does It Happen?

November 18, 2022

Seasonal hair loss: it is not a myth. There are different seasons of the year when hair loss is more frequent. Autumn and spring are the most related to this condition, known as seasonal hair loss. However, it is a problem that can occur in any season.


Stress, poor diet, hormonal changes, infections, and taking certain medication: all of these are possible causes that can lead to seasonal hair loss being more or less intense. 


However, this is not a matter that should not cause too much concern, as it is a natural hair loss. There are hair loss treatments that help prevent and avoid excessive hair loss during this time of year.


Tips for dealing with seasonal hair loss


Although the changes caused by seasonal hair loss are more noticeable in spring and autumn, they can also occur to some extent in summer and winter, so hair care should not be neglected throughout the year.


Seeing a dermatologist


Even though seasonal hair loss is a natural process, and there is no need to be alarmed, if you have any doubts, you can visit a dermatologist. 


This specialist will be the one to determine the type of hair loss you suffer, the causes, and its treatment. Normally, we use between 50 and 100 hairs every day. However, if you notice that hair loss is more abundant and prolonged over time, it is time to see a dermatologist.


Seasonal hair loss is a natural process


Seasonal hair loss is similar to hair shedding. What occurs is a renewal of hair. Therefore, unlike androgenic alopecia, the original structure of the hair is not altered during seasonal hair loss. It is therefore a hair loss that should not be a cause for concern, except in cases where the hair that falls out is not renewed.


Preventing seasonal hair loss


If you notice that seasonal hair loss is abundant, there are several products you can use to prevent it. Hair lotions have proven efficacy against this problem. There are numerous treatments available today that are adapted to each type of hair. Choose the one that best suits you, or consult a specialist.


Myths about hair loss


We have always heard that "if you wash your hair a lot, it will fall out more". Frequent washing does not mean more hair loss. The same applies to the use of hairsprays, gels, and vaxes. These products do not affect hair loss, although it is preferable to use them responsibly and choose the ones that do not contain ingredients that can damage and irritate the hair.


Seasonal hair loss at different times of the year


Seasonal hair loss is often associated with spring and autumn. However, it can occur at any time of the year. In each of them, the process can last between 4 and 6 weeks.


  • Spring


Spring is a time when more natural light is enjoyed. However, this decreases the production of melatonin, the hormone that activates hair growth and reduces hair loss. In addition, the temperature changes that occur during this season also tend to affect the health of the hair. It is, therefore, a time when hair care should be enhanced.


  • Summer


Exposure to the sun's rays irritates and dries out the scalp. The heat activates the telogen phase in the hair. This phase lasts about three months and consists of the hair falling out to be replaced by another one. In addition, summer is a time of the year when we probably take less care of our diet. The lack of essential nutrients can at some point lead to seasonal hair loss.


  • Autumn


Changes in temperature influence seasonal hair loss in autumn. This is a normal hair renewal process that occurs every year. But, at the same time, autumn means, on most occasions, the return to the routine of everyday life, work, studies, etc. Stressful situations and obligations also have an impact on possible hair loss in autumn.


  • Winter


Hair loss can also occur in winter. In this case, one of the reasons is the drop in the percentage of atmospheric humidity. This decrease dries out the scalp, so it is necessary to maintain the care of the scalp. Continuing the anti-hair loss treatment in winter can be one of the best solutions.


Final Word 


Seasonal hair loss is a natural process that can occur at any time of the year. It is not something you should worry about, but if you wish, you can consult a dermatologist or start a hair loss treatment. 


However, it's best to get advice from a specialist and detect which product you should use according to your scalp's skin type. 


Another reason to see a dermatologist is to make sure that it's only a harmless seasonal hair loss and not a condition you should worry about.