
WHEN DO HAIR LOSS AND THINNING OCCUR SEASONALLY, AND HOW CAN WE PREVENT THEM?
Shedding of body parts is a well-known phenomenon in the animal kingdom, which includes humans. Although it manifests differently across various species, the basic principle remains the same. Once or several times a year (or only a few times in a lifetime), animals shed fur, skin, or exoskeleton. The most recognized example of seasonal shedding is in dogs, familiar to all pet owners, but it also applies to cats, rabbits, arctic foxes, wolves, elk, molting snakes, cicadas, and many more.
Interestingly, something similar happens to humans, though it may seem unusual. Scientists have shown that during spring and autumn (especially in areas with four seasons), hair shedding increases. It’s not excessive – most people may not even notice this natural process – but it is apparent to those who pay attention. Seasonal hair loss is most noticeable while brushing or washing hair. If more than about 100 hairs fall out daily (the average is fifty to one hundred), and it’s either spring or autumn, the cause may be seasonal shedding. However, if hair loss seems significant, consulting a doctor is always advisable to rule out any underlying health issues.
Seasonal hair shedding is influenced by sunlight and hormones, especially thyroid hormones, which regulate our body’s daily and seasonal cycles. These effects on hair are relatively mild because humans have lost a considerable amount of genetic material associated with shedding, found in other mammals that trigger the hair’s entry into the catagen phase (the shedding stage). However, seasonal effects on hair vary from person to person.
While seasonal hair loss is driven by hormones and sunlight, there are steps we can take to reduce it. Regarding 'mechanical' measures, these include regular brushing to remove dead hair from the scalp (also promoting blood flow for healthier hair), avoiding tying hair tightly in a ponytail (which can damage hair with each pull), and above all, maintaining proper hair care. This means avoiding aggressive dyes, over-chlorinated pools, intense sun exposure, high stress, and unhealthy diets for at least a couple of months. Numerous hair care products are available in pharmacies, drugstores, and online, including shampoos, conditioners, and nourishing creams, which, when chosen carefully, can significantly reduce hair loss while keeping hair healthy and shiny. These products work even better when combined with dietary supplements – vitamins, minerals, proteins, and more. Even if we generally have strong and healthy hair, during seasonal shedding, it's wise to pay attention to our diet and, if necessary, take a capsule or two daily; however, consulting a doctor or pharmacist before taking any supplements is advisable.
Tags: seasonal hair loss hair thinning hair care vitamins for hair healthy hair spring hair loss autumn hair shedding hair supplements healthy diet for hair preventing hair loss
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