Hair Loss in the Fall: What you Need to Know

Our head has around 100,000 hair strands.  We lose around 100 strands every day during the natural renewal of our hair.  Hair development is not constant, but cyclic.  The development phase (Anagen phase) is followed, through a transition stage (Catagen phase), by a phase of repose and the eventual loss of the strand (Telogen phase).  The cycle continues with the development of a new strand. 

We refer to natural hair loss when, from the 100 strands that fall approximately every day, only 90 redevelop. In this case, the loss will not reduce the hair significantly, but simply recede our hairline. 

Seasonal Hair Loss 

Seasonal hair loss is more frequent during the fall.  Our hair is weakened during the summer because of the heat, seawater, and over-exposure to the sun. Aside from these, returning from vacation is always stressful, since from the carelessness of the summer break we come back to the reality of our daily chores.  

If you notice a sudden, rapid hair loss, think of recent events in your life.  

• The strain caused to our body by intense stress could cause the hair follicles to enter prematurely the telogen phase (when the strand stops growing and eventually falls) and result in intense hair loss. 

• Both the physical and psychological stress often contribute to the interruption of the natural life cycle of the hair follicles, which enter prematurely the inactivity phase.  This phenomenon is called “telogen effluvium” - that is, the loss of a hair strand in periods of intense stress because of a trauma in the follicle, which forces it to stop developing and eventually lead to the fall of the strand. 

• In addition, exhausting diets often cause great and sudden shortages of nutrients essential to the body, like vitamins and trace elements, which are necessary for the development of the hair. Hair is the fastest developing organ of our body and requires these nutrients in great quantities.  Hence, a natural consequence is a fast transition from the anagen to the telogen phase - and a significant hair loss.  Sometimes, this process also triggers another type of existing hair loss and requires careful diagnosis and treatment.  

In Parapharmacie, you can find a vast range of hair treatments as well as specialised anti-hair loss products - at unique discounts!  See more here.