Hair Shedding vs. Hair Loss: What’s Normal & When to Worry

Knowing the difference between hair loss and shedding is crucial for healthy hair. Ayana Dermatology & Aesthetics understands how hair problems can affect confidence. This article looks at how hair shedding and hair loss are different. It also covers their causes and solutions. This will help you decide when to see a board-certified dermatologist.

A study in the Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology classifies hair disorders into two main types: non-cicatricial (non-scarring) and cicatricial (scarring) alopecia. Non-cicatricial types are more common. Conditions like androgenetic alopecia, telogen effluvium, and alopecia areata fit in this category. Scarring types are frontal fibrosing alopecia and discoid lupus erythematosus. A correct diagnosis is key. This usually includes trichoscopy. Sometimes, a scalp biopsy is needed. Getting it right leads to better care and long-term results.

Understanding Hair Shedding

The good news is—hair shedding is normal for everyone. It helps keep hair healthy and promotes renewal. We break down this organic process here at Ayana Dermatology & Aesthetics. We help you see when shedding could signal a more serious problem.

What is Hair Shedding?

Hair shedding is a normal part of the hair growth cycle. This cycle has three stages:

• Anagen (growth phase)

• Catagen (transitional phase)

• Telogen (resting phase)

 

During the telogen phase, it’s normal for hair to fall out as new hair begins to grow from the follicle. It is typical for a person to shed between 50 and 100 hairs a day as part of this natural cycle. You won’t notice this daily shedding in your hair because new hair is growing at the same time.

Causes of Excessive Hair Shedding

• Telogen Effluvium: This condition happens when the body faces a lot of stress. This could be due to major surgery, serious illness, or intense psychological stress. As a result, many hair follicles go into the resting phase at the same time. The result can be sudden and substantial hair shedding.
• Stress-Related Hair Shedding: Physical or emotional stress can cause more hair to fall out. Mindfulness, therapy, and relaxation can help reduce the effects.
• Postpartum Hair Shedding: Many women notice hair shedding a few months after having a baby. Estrogen levels drop, which often causes this. But it’s usually temporary.
• Other Potential Factors:

• • Nutritional deficiencies (e.g., iron deficiency)
  • Sudden weight loss
  • Protein deficiency
  • Certain medications

 

Hair Regrowth After Shedding

Once you fix the cause of the hair loss, hair often starts to regrow in 3 to 6 months. At first, the hair may look thinner. However, it can regain its normal fullness over time.

Factors Influencing Recovery:

• The Health of the Scalp
• Nutritional Support
• Management of Underlying Conditions
• Hair Care Practices
• Stress Management
• Age and Genetics
• Medication and Supplements
• Hormonal Balance

 

Understanding Hair Loss

Hair loss can be upsetting. It often hurts self-esteem and affects how people feel. At Ayana Dermatology & Aesthetics, we unravel the mysteries behind hair loss. We also offer a range of effective treatments to fight hair loss.

What is Hair Loss?

Hair loss is different from regular shedding. It happens when new hair doesn’t grow to replace what has fallen out. True hair loss appears as thinning, bald spots, or even total baldness in severe cases.

Anagen Effluvium: Causes and Implications

This hair loss happens in the anagen phase, which is the growth stage of the hair cycle. It often comes from exposure to chemicals or radiation. Anagen effluvium is linked to chemotherapy. It can cause quick and widespread hair loss. Recovery may start when the treatment is stopped or changed. This can have a big emotional and psychological impact.

Causes of Hair Loss

Hereditary Hair Loss (Androgenetic Alopecia):

The most common type of hair loss is male pattern baldness or female pattern hair loss. It is mainly genetic. This condition gradually thins hair and can eventually lead to baldness.

Medical Conditions and Hormonal Imbalances:

Hair loss can be caused by thyroid disease, lupus, and hormonal imbalances like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Hormones play a key role in managing hair growth.

Medications and Treatments

Medications:

• Minoxidil (Topical)
• Finasteride (Oral)
• Dutasteride (Oral)
• Spironolactone (Oral)
• Corticosteroids (Injectable and Topical)

 

Treatments:

• Hair Transplant Surgery
• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)
• Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP)

 

Hairstyles and Hair Care Practices

Hairstyles That Can Lead to Hair Loss (Traction Alopecia):

• Tight Ponytails, Braids, and Buns
• Cornrows and Dreadlocks
• Extensions and Weaves

 

Hair Care Practices That Damage Hair:

• Overusing Heat Styling Tools
• Harsh Chemical Treatments
• Brushing Hair Too Aggressively, Especially When Wet.
• Overwashing or Using Harsh Shampoos

 

When to See a Dermatologist for Hair Loss

• Unusually large amount of hair falling out.
• Thinning hair without any apparent reason.
• Bald patches are suddenly appearing.
• Losing hair at an early age.

 

Diagnostic Approaches:

At Ayana Dermatology & Aesthetics, we take a thorough approach to diagnosing hair loss. This may include:

• Blood tests to check for any hidden medical issues.
• Scalp examination and hair-pull tests.
• Biopsy of the scalp when necessary.
• Discussion of family history and personal health background.

 

Hair Loss Treatment Options

At Ayana Dermatology & Aesthetics, we understand the impact of hair loss on your self-esteem and quality of life. To fight hair loss, seek medical help and make lifestyle changes that work for you. Here are some treatment options to consider. You’ll also find useful lifestyle tips and home remedies.

Medical Treatments

• Topical Treatments

• • Minoxidil: This FDA-approved treatment is often the first line of defense. It stimulates hair growth and can be used directly on the scalp by both men and women.

• Oral Medications

• • Finasteride: This pill helps men with hair loss. It slows hair loss and helps hair grow. It does this by blocking the hormone tied to genetic hair loss.

• Other Supplements: Oral supplements such as biotin, vitamin D, and iron can boost your hair’s health. This is especially true if your hair loss comes from a lack of nutrients.
• Procedures

• • Hair Transplant Surgery: This method removes hair follicles from thick areas of your scalp or body. Then, it places them in spots where hair is thinning or missing. It offers a lasting solution for hair loss.

• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT): A light therapy treatment that helps grow hair without surgery. Both men and women can use it.

 

Lifestyle and Home Remedies

• Diet and Nutrition: A balanced diet with protein, iron, zinc, and vitamins A, C, and E helps hair grow and repair. Foods like spinach, salmon, nuts, and seeds are especially good for you.
• Stress Management Techniques: Chronic stress can exacerbate hair loss. Meditation, exercise, and good sleep reduce stress.
• Proper Hair Care Routines:

• • Avoid harsh treatments and styles that pull on the hair, such as tight braids or ponytails.
  • Use a soft brush and avoid brushing hair when it’s wet to prevent breakage.
  • Use heat-styling tools sparingly and, if necessary, always apply a heat protectant.

 

Preventive Measures and Maintenance

Long-term hair health depends on a healthy scalp and reduced hair loss. Here are some useful tips to help you keep your hair healthy and avoid problems.

Ways to Reduce Hair Loss and Excessive Shedding

• Balanced Diet: For healthy hair, eat a diet rich in vitamins and minerals. Concentrate on vitamin D, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients are essential for healthy hair follicles. They can also help reduce shedding.
• Regular Washing: Wash your hair often to keep your scalp clean and healthy. Use a gentle, pH-balanced shampoo. This stops sebum and dandruff from building up.
• Avoid Harsh Treatments: Use fewer harsh chemicals like perms, dyes, and relaxers. These can damage hair shafts, making hair loss more likely.
• Gentle Styling: Skip tight hairstyles, such as braids, buns, or ponytails. These can pull on the hair at the root and may cause hair loss. To ease tension, choose looser styles.
• Stress Management: Stress can cause hair shedding and loss. Using stress-reduction techniques can help. Try yoga, meditation, or exercise.
• Avoid Excessive Heat: Cut back on heat tools like hair dryers, straighteners, and curling irons. Use a heat protectant with these tools. It helps reduce damage.

 

Maintaining a Healthy Scalp Environment

• Hydration: Moisturize your scalp with hydrating hair products. Also, avoid washing too often. Excessive washing might deplete the natural oils in your scalp.
• Scalp Massages: Scalp massages boost blood flow to the scalp. They also help hair grow and lower stress.
• Use of Anti-Dandruff Shampoo: Regular use of anti-dandruff shampoo keeps your scalp clean and healthy. This supports good hair growth if you have dandruff.
• Sun Protection: Put on hats or apply UV-protective hair products. This protects your scalp against sun damage. Too much UV exposure can harm hair follicles.

 

Conclusion: Taking Control of Your Hair Health with Ayana Dermatology

Got hair concerns? Our board-certified dermatologists at Ayana Dermatology & Aesthetics can help. Knowing the difference between hair loss and hair shedding is important. It empowers you to nurture and maintain a lush, healthy mane. Feel free to contact us and start your journey to healthier hair.

FAQs about Hair Shedding vs. Hair Loss

How can I tell the difference between excessive and typical hair loss?

Normal hair shedding means losing about 50 to 100 hairs daily. Excessive hair loss means big clumps fall out and don’t grow back.

Can stress cause permanent hair loss?

Stress typically causes temporary hair loss. Managing stress and getting treatment can help reverse hair loss caused by stress.

Is hair loss after pregnancy permanent?

Hair loss post-pregnancy is usually temporary. Most women will see their hair return to normal a few months after childbirth.

What are the effective treatments for hereditary hair loss?

Minoxidil and hair transplant surgery can treat genetic hair loss. See a board-certified dermatologist to find the best approach.

When should I bring up my hair loss with a dermatologist?

Consult a dermatologist if you notice sudden hair loss, changes in your hairline or if it is borderline distressing.