Seasonal hair shedding – or something more serious?

As the air cools and the days shorten, you might notice more strands on your pillow, in the shower, or on your brush. While seasonal shedding is common, it is important to know when it is simply part of your hair’s natural rhythm or when it might signal something more serious. Elma Titus, a trichologist based in Cape Town, explains what is normal, what is not, and how to care for your hair this season.

Why shedding hair is normal

Shedding is a natural part of the hair growth cycle, with most people losing between 50 and 100 hairs a day. Hair moves through three stages: the growing phase (anagen), the resting phase (telogen), and the shedding phase (catagen). Because hairs are always at different stages of this cycle, some level of daily shedding is normal and usually does not lead to visible thinning.

In autumn, however, a slightly larger number of hairs shift into the shedding phase. This temporary change can last up to three months before the cycle returns to the growth stage and new hairs begin to replace those that have fallen out.

Why seasonal shifts cause shedding

“Hair shedding in autumn is completely normal,” explains Titus. “We are coming out of summer, when sun, saltwater, chlorine, heat and wind challenge our hair. Protein structure is affected, moisture is lost, and strands become brittle with split ends.”

These environmental stresses, combined with the natural seasonal shift in the hair cycle, can make shedding more noticeable during autumn. While it may seem alarming, this increase is usually temporary and part of the scalp’s normal renewal process.

When shedding becomes excessive

Excessive shedding can signal an underlying issue. “Common triggers include stress, whether physical or emotional, nutritional deficiencies such as low protein, iron, or vitamins, and hormonal changes,” says Titus. Women may notice shedding during pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, or with conditions like PCOS, while men can be sensitive to androgens such as DHT. Drops in estrogen, for example, after stopping or changing birth control, can also trigger shedding.

Signs that shedding may be more than seasonal include:

●. Noticeable thinning on the top of the head or at the temples

●. Irregular bald patches

●. Hair that loosens or falls out with gentle combing.

Other causes can include heredity, thyroid issues, certain medications, or underlying health conditions. Early recognition and professional guidance can prevent further hair loss and support regrowth.

Caring for your hair during shedding

Even when shedding is temporary, your hair benefits from extra care. Titus suggests using gentle shampoos and conditioners, focusing on mid-lengths and ends, and supporting growth with a nutrient-rich diet that includes protein, iron, and vitamins. 

Handle hair gently, especially when wet, and avoid heat styling tools or tight hairstyles that pull at the roots. Regular scalp massages improve circulation, and using a soft-bristle brush from the ends upward can help prevent breakage. Consistent sleep is also important, as melatonin, the hormone that regulates the sleep cycle, plays a role in healthy hair growth.

Professional treatments for hair loss

When hair loss is more pronounced or persistent, professional treatment may be needed. Topical medications such as minoxidil can help slow hair loss and stimulate regrowth, while advanced therapies like PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) injections encourage new hair growth and extend the growth phase. Other options include infrared light therapy, high-frequency treatments, exfoliation, oxygen therapy, mesotherapy, and low-level laser therapy, all of which improve scalp circulation, strengthen hair roots, and support overall hair health.

When to see a dermatologist or trichologist

Seek professional help if:

●. Shedding lasts beyond six months

●. Visible thinning or bald spots appear

●. Hair loss is accompanied by scalp irritation, pain, or inflammation.

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