Hair Loss in Autumn: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Options

Do humans tend to lose more hair during autumn season?

Yes, it's quite common for people to experience more hair shedding during the autumn season. This phenomenon is believed to be part of a natural hair growth cycle. There are a few possible reasons for this seasonal shedding:

Hair Growth Cycle: Human hair goes through different phases: anagen (growth), catagen (transition), and telogen (resting/shedding). A higher percentage of hair tends to enter the telogen phase during late summer, which leads to increased shedding in autumn. Some researchers suggest this is a remnant of evolutionary adaptation to grow more hair in summer to protect the scalp from the sun, followed by a natural shedding process afterward.
Sunlight Exposure: During the summer, the body is exposed to more sunlight, which may increase melatonin production. This hormone influences the hair growth cycle, potentially prolonging the anagen (growth) phase. As daylight hours decrease in autumn, hair that had been in the resting phase sheds, resulting in more noticeable hair loss.
Stress and Environmental Factors: Changes in temperature, humidity, and lifestyle habits (e.g., less exposure to the sun, stress from returning to work or school) can also influence hair health and trigger shedding during autumn.

Though the shedding in autumn is usually temporary and part of the natural hair cycle, it can be alarming.

Can seasonal hair loss in autumn be prevented?

Seasonal hair loss in autumn is a natural process, and while it may not be entirely preventable, there are steps you can take to minimise its impact and support healthy hair growth. Here are some tips:

1. Maintain a Balanced Diet

A diet rich in essential nutrients can help promote healthy hair and reduce shedding:

Protein: Hair is made of keratin, a protein, so adequate protein intake (from sources like eggs, fish, and beans) is essential.
Iron: Iron deficiency can cause hair loss, so include iron-rich foods like leafy greens, lean meats, and legumes.
Biotin and B Vitamins: Biotin, found in eggs, nuts, and seeds, is important for hair health. B vitamins help with scalp circulation and hair growth.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fish and flaxseed, these help maintain hair strength and prevent excessive shedding.

2. Stay Hydrated

Dry hair is more prone to breakage and shedding. Drink plenty of water to keep both your hair and scalp hydrated, especially during seasonal changes.

3. Use Gentle Hair Care Products

Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners that nourish the hair without stripping it of natural oils.
Moisturising Treatments: Use hair masks or deep-conditioning treatments to keep your hair moisturised and less prone to shedding.
Minimise Heat Styling: Excessive use of heat tools like straighteners and blow dryers can weaken hair and lead to breakage. Letting your hair air-dry when possible can help.

4. Massage the Scalp

Regular scalp massages improve blood circulation to the hair follicles, which can support healthy hair growth. Using oils like coconut, castor, or argan oil can also provide nourishment to the scalp and hair roots.

5. Minimise Stress

High stress levels can contribute to hair shedding. Incorporating stress-reducing activities such as meditation, yoga, or regular exercise can help minimise stress-related hair loss.

6. Take Supplements (if necessary)

Biotin: Often recommended for stronger hair, biotin supplements can help reduce shedding if you’re not getting enough from your diet.
Vitamin D: A lack of sunlight during autumn can lower vitamin D levels, which has been linked to hair loss. Consider supplements if needed.
Zinc and Iron: These minerals are essential for hair health and can help prevent seasonal shedding if your levels are low.

7. Protect Your Hair from Weather Changes

Autumn brings cooler, dryer air, which can make hair brittle:

Wear hats or scarves to protect your hair from cold winds.
Avoid washing your hair too often, as it can strip away natural oils. Shampooing two to three times a week is usually sufficient.
Use leave-in conditioners or anti-frizz serums to lock in moisture.

What are the best treatments for hair loss in autumn season?

Treating hair loss during the autumn season involves a combination of lifestyle adjustments, targeted treatments, and hair care practices to minimise shedding and promote regrowth. Here are some of the best treatments to manage autumn hair loss effectively:

1. Topical Treatments

Minoxidil (Rogaine): Minoxidil is an over-the-counter topical treatment that stimulates hair follicles and promotes hair regrowth. It's often recommended for pattern hair loss but can also help with seasonal shedding by improving blood flow to the scalp.
Caffeine-based Treatments: Caffeine-infused shampoos and scalp treatments (such as Alpecin) are believed to promote hair growth by stimulating hair follicles. Try adding a caffeine based shampoo to your hair care routine during the autumn months.
KGF Hair Growth Serum: If you would prefer to stay away from medications like minoxidil, then KGF Serum acts as a safe and effective alternative. This powerful serum targets hair loss at the root cause, and has shown to be effective in the vast majority of its male and female users.

2. HR23+ Hair Restoration Supplement

HR23+ is an advanced hair growth supplement designed to combat hair thinning and promote healthy hair growth. Packed with a powerful blend of 23 active ingredients, including vitamins, minerals, and botanical extracts, it helps strengthen hair follicles, improve scalp health, and boost hair density. Unlike other products, HR23+ is suitable for both men and women and works naturally without the need for harsh chemicals or invasive treatments. It's an ideal choice if you're looking for an all-in-one solution that targets hair loss from the inside out, providing visible results in as little as 3 months.

3. Scalp Treatments and Therapies

Scalp Massages: Regular scalp massages help improve blood circulation to hair follicles, stimulating hair growth. You can use essential oils like rosemary, peppermint, or castor oil to enhance the benefits. These oils have been shown to promote hair thickness and reduce shedding.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: PRP therapy involves injecting platelet-rich plasma from your own blood into your scalp to stimulate hair growth. This is a more advanced option that can be considered if you experience significant hair loss.
Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT): Devices like laser caps or combs use light therapy to stimulate hair follicles and encourage regrowth. These are particularly useful for thinning hair and can be used at home.

4. Natural Remedies

Onion Juice: Onion juice contains sulfur, which is known to boost collagen production and promote hair regrowth. Applying it to the scalp may help reduce hair shedding.
Aloe Vera: Known for its soothing properties, aloe vera can help reduce scalp inflammation and irritation, which can contribute to hair shedding. It also moisturizes and conditions the scalp.
Green Tea Rinse: Green tea is rich in antioxidants, which can help reduce hair loss by strengthening hair follicles.

Autumn hair loss is a common seasonal phenomenon where people experience increased hair shedding during the fall. This can be attributed to hair's natural growth cycle, with more hairs entering the "telogen" (resting) phase after summer.

Factors like changes in weather, reduced sunlight exposure, and stress can also contribute. The shedding is typically temporary, and maintaining a healthy diet, proper scalp care, and stress management can help reduce the effects.

This type of hair loss can be minimised with a consistent treatment plan. Remember that, despite autumn hair loss being a worrying time, the hair does tend to improve as the winter season approaches.

Ad.