How Seasonal Changes Impact Seasonal Hair Loss and What to Do About It
Does your hair seem to change its behavior periodically like seasonal hair loss? One moment it’s soft and full, the next it’s brittle, shedding, or just refusing to cooperate. Winter dryness giving you “static chic”? Summer UV rays frying your strands to a crisp? Or fall making you shed more than your dog?
If these sound familiar, you’re not alone. Hair, like skin, reacts to environmental changes, and the seasons can play a significant role in its health. Let’s explore why your hair might be struggling in winter, summer, and fall—and what you can do to protect seasonal hair loss with Vera Clinic signature!
Winter: The Dryness Dilemma
Winter air is cold and dry, leading to reduced moisture in the scalp and hair. This dryness can cause:
- Brittle strands that break
- Flaky scalps, as low humidity encourages
- Reduced shine, leaving your hair dull and
Why It Happens:
- Low humidity = moisture loss from hair and
- Hats and scarves can cause friction, leading to
- Lack of sunlight might reduce vitamin D, which plays a role in hair
What You Can Do:
- Use a deep conditioning treatment weekly to replenish
- Invest in a humidifier to balance indoor
- Consider a scalp oil massage for hydration (and bonus relaxation points).
- Boost your vitamin D intake with supplements or fortified
Pro Tip: If your hair could talk in winter, it would scream, ‘Water! More water!’ So listen to it. Also, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends using sulfate-free shampoos to maintain moisture during winter.
Summer: UV Rays Are Not Your Hair’s BFF
Sunny days are great for your mood, but they can be a nightmare for your hair. UV rays damage the hair cuticle, leading to dullness, dryness, and split ends. Plus, salt water and chlorine? Let’s just say your hair isn’t here for your “mermaid summer” aesthetic.
Prolonged exposure to UV rays and chlorine can result in seasonal hair loss in women and men:
- Weakened hair strands, increasing
- Discoloration, especially for chemically treated
- Split ends, caused by excessive
Why It Happens:
- Prolonged sun exposure weakens hair
- Chlorine strips natural oils, making hair
- Saltwater dehydrates strands and leaves behind a crunchy
What You Can Do:
- Use a leave-in conditioner with Yes, hair sunscreen exists!
- Rinse hair with fresh water before and after swimming to minimize
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat to shield your scalp and
Pro Tip: Studies show that UV damage can degrade the protein structure of hair, similar to what happens with aging. So think of your hair like your skin: it needs sunscreen, too. Unless you want to rock a ‘fried spaghetti’ look.
Fall: Hair Loss Seasonal Shedding
As the leaves fall, so does your hair. Hair loss seasonal shedding is common in autumn, thanks to shifts in your hair’s natural growth cycle. It might seem alarming, but don’t worry—it’s normal to lose 50–100 hairs daily, and during fall, it can be a bit more. (If you’re counting them, maybe take a step back… we promise it’s fine.) Studies have found that humans naturally shed more hair in the fall due to the hair’s growth cycle:
- Hair enters the telogen phase (resting phase) in late summer and sheds in
- On average, you could lose 50-100 hairs daily, but this number might temporarily increase by 10-20%.
Why It Happens:
- Hair follicles naturally transition from the growth phase to the shedding
- Cooler weather can stress the scalp, affecting hair
What You Can Do:
- Use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo to avoid irritating your
- Incorporate a diet rich in iron, zinc, and biotin to support hair
- Avoid over-styling or using heat tools excessively during this
Pro Tip: When in doubt, blame the weather—it’s easier than explaining telogen effluvium to your friends. Asking “does seasonal hair loss grow back” is quite valid and the answer is generally yes. However, if it persists, consult a dermatologist.
How Long Does Seasonal Hair Loss Last?
Seasonal hair loss typically lasts around 2–3 months, aligning with the natural hair growth cycle. During this time, more hairs enter the telogen (resting) phase, leading to increased shedding.
This is most common in the fall, but don’t panic—it’s usually temporary. By the time your hair cycle resets and new strands start growing in the anagen (growth) phase, shedding should reduce.
If it persists beyond three months or seems excessive, consider consulting a dermatologist to rule out other causes. Only if a permanent solution to your hair loss is needed, Experts at Vera Clinic offer high-tech stem cell solutions, paving the way for advanced hair restoration.
General Tips for Healthy Hair Year-Round
Regardless of the season, some practices keep your hair looking its best:
- Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water benefits your scalp and
- Use silk pillowcases: They reduce friction and prevent
- Get regular trims: Prevent split ends from traveling up the hair
- Consult a dermatologist: You should see an expert if shedding seems excessive or
Scientific Note: According to the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS), hair health is closely tied to your overall wellness. A balanced diet and proper hydration can significantly improve hair quality.
Innovative treatments, like in-house Oxycure Therapy (Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy) offered by expertise at Vera Clinic, are designed to support hair health year-round, addressing concerns like excessive shedding, seasonal hair loss and promoting regeneration. Learn more about these advancements at the best hair transplant clinic in Turkey, Vera Clinic awarded by the European Awards in Medicine.
Remember: your hair’s mood swings aren’t personal—it’s just weather drama. Treat it well, and it might even forgive you for that one bad dye job.