Does Hair Fall Increase In Winter? (Reason – Helpful Tips)

Have you ever asked yourself if Hair fall increase in Winter? this is one of the questions our readers ask a lot. Well, we´ve got you covered.

Seeing clumps of hair falling out when brushing your hair or in the shower can be a frightening experience, leading to images of bald spots, wigs, and possible horrible diseases.

There is no need to fear however, what you are experiencing is most likely seasonal hair loss, which is quite common and normal. 

So, does Hair fall increase in Winter? Yes, hair fall does increase in winter. Hair growth and loss are cyclical and a few studies have shown that most hair loss occurs in late summer/early fall. However, many find that their hair fall increases in winter. This is due to the dry winter weather sucking the moisture out from the scalp. A dry scalp can result in dull, brittle hair that is more susceptible to falling out. 

Find out more about seasonal hair loss and steps you can take to minimize seasonal hair loss in the winter months. 

What is the growth cycle of normal hair?

It’s normal for a person to shed between 50-100 strands of hair a day. This is because of the natural life cycle of human hair, which lasts between 2-6 years. At the end of this cycle, the hair falls out and is replaced with new hair. 

Read Also: How Many Amps Does A Hair Dryer Use? (1500, 1600, 1875 Watt, Dyson)

This life cycle occurs independently for each hair follicle, otherwise, all your hair would fall out at once. The life cycle of a human hair has three phases: the anagen, catagen, and telogen phases. 

Anagen Phase:

This phase is the growth phase of hair. It typically lasts between 2 to 6 years. In this period your hair will grow about half an inch per month. 

Catagen Phase:

This phase is a short intermediate phase in the life cycle. It typically lasts about 10 days. 

Telogen Phase:

This phase is the resting period of the hair. The hair follicle enters a dormant period and a “bulb” is formed around the root of the hair.

This period lasts about 100 days. At the end of this period, the hair is shed and the follicle remains dormant for about 3 months, then the process is repeated. As mentioned, it is normal to shed 50 to 100 hairs per day. 

What is seasonal hair loss?

While the hair growth cycle occurs all year round, it has been noted that there are certain seasons of the year when hair loss appears more accelerated.

Scientists have researched whether there is a seasonal cycle of hair loss that occurs in the human population.  

In a recent study published in the British Journal of Dermatology, scientists used Google search trends for “hair loss” to identify seasonal hair loss across populations of countries. They found that similar to earlier studies, hair loss appears to be greatest in late summer/fall.   

Why does my hair fall out more in the winter?

While everyone’s hair cycles will differ, many find that they shed more in the winter months. This is because dry air and winter weather can be damaging to even the healthiest of hair.

The cold weather outside and the dry, heated air indoors can suck moisture out of the scalp and leave hair dry and brittle. This results in hair that is susceptible to premature breakage and shedding. 

How can I keep my hair from falling out in the winter?

There are several ways to help keep hair fall to a minimum in the winter. While it is normal to lose hair every day, keeping the scalp and hair well cared for will help maintain healthy, beautiful hair all year round. 

Wear a hat

Wearing a hat outdoors during the winter months will help protect your hair and scalp from the winter elements of rain, snow, wind, and sleet. 

Use a humidifier

In winter months, heated indoor air can be notoriously dry and wreak havoc on skin and hair. Using a room humidifier is a great way to replenish moisture to your skin and hair while indoors in the winter. Even your sinuses will thank you!

Visit your hairdresser

Getting regular trims – even just a half an inch – can help keep hair healthy by eliminating dry, split ends. Plus, your hairdresser can help diagnose issues with your hair and recommend treatments if needed.  

Turn down the heat

Enticing as a hot, steamy shower sounds during a cold, blustery day, the hot water will actually dry out your scalp and create dry, brittle hair.

Turn down the heat for a few minutes while washing your hair and use warm water to shampoo, and cool water to rinse.  

Air dry hair

It’s always best to air dry your hair. Blow drying is another way moisture gets sucked out of hair, leaving it susceptible to breakage.

Just be sure to time your shower so you don’t go outside in freezing temperatures with wet hair, as that can also damage your hair. You may find it works best to shower in the evening, giving your hair time to air dry safely indoors. 

Supplements and nutrition

Believe it or not, your diet can have an impact on the health of your hair. Be sure to stock up on foods like leafy greens that are rich in iron, and nuts and salmon that are full of essential fatty acids.

If needed, look into supplements that have silica or amino acids that help strengthen hair. 

Treat your hair

If your scalp feels itchy and dry, and your hair looks flat and feels dry and brittle, it may be time for a treat for your hair. There are many deep conditioning and oil treatments for all hair types.

Experiment and find the ones that are best for your hair, especially during the tough, dry winter months.  

References

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/bjd.16075