As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, many people start noticing something unsettling in November: more hair in the shower drain, on the pillow, and on the hairbrush. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. November is often a peak time for seasonal hair shedding, and understanding why this happens can help you manage it — and even keep your hair looking healthier all winter long.

The Seasonal Shedding Cycle

Hair shedding is a natural part of the hair growth cycle, which includes three main phases:

1. Anagen (Growth Phase): Active hair growth, lasting 2–7 years.

2. Catagen (Transition Phase): A short, 2–3 week period where growth slows.

3. Telogen (Resting & Shedding Phase): The hair follicle rests, then the hair falls out to make way for new growth.

According to several dermatological studies, many people experience increased shedding during late summer and autumn. This is a phenomenon called seasonal hair loss, and it often peaks around October and November.

Why? One theory is evolutionary: in the summer, our bodies hold on to more hair to protect the scalp from UV rays. Come autumn, those extra hairs enter the telogen phase and fall out — resulting in what can feel like sudden, excessive hair loss.

Environmental Changes in November That Impact Your Hair

Beyond the hair cycle, November itself brings environmental shifts that can aggravate hair shedding:

• Colder, drier air: This can dehydrate your scalp and hair strands, making them brittle and more prone to breakage.

• Indoor heating: Central heating saps moisture from the air, further drying out your scalp.

• Reduced sunlight: Less exposure to vitamin D can impact hair follicle health and slow regrowth.

• Holiday stress: As the festive season approaches, increased stress levels may contribute to telogen effluvium, a temporary but noticeable type of hair loss triggered by stress.

These factors can compound, making hair shedding in November feel more severe than at other times of the year.

How to Tell the Difference Between Seasonal Shedding and True Hair Loss

Seasonal shedding typically means you’re losing slightly more hair than usual (around 100–150 hairs a day), but your hair should gradually rebalance over the following months.

However, if your hair is thinning rapidly or you notice widening parts, bald patches, or a receding hairline, it may be more than seasonal shedding. In that case, you could be experiencing:

• Androgenetic alopecia (male or female pattern baldness)

• Telogen effluvium triggered by stress, illness, or hormonal changes

• Alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition

A consultation with a dermatologist or trichologist can help pinpoint the cause and guide you toward effective treatments.

November Hair Care Tips to Minimize Shedding

While seasonal hair loss can’t be completely avoided, you can reduce its impact with smart, targeted care. Here are some practical tips:

1. Hydrate Your Scalp

Use a gentle, moisturizing shampoo and conditioner to counteract dryness. Consider incorporating a scalp serum or light natural oil like jojoba or argan once a week to lock in moisture.

2. Avoid Excessive Heat Styling

Flat irons, curling wands, and even hot showers can make your hair more vulnerable to breakage in winter. Opt for lukewarm water and air drying whenever possible.

3. Brush Gently and Strategically

Over-brushing can increase shedding. Use a wide-tooth comb or soft bristle brush and start from the ends, working your way up to minimize tugging.

4. Boost Nutritional Support

Hair health starts from within. November is a good time to up your intake of vitamin D, iron, zinc, and biotin — through food or supplements (after consulting your doctor).

5. Stay Stress-Aware

Stress is a silent hair loss accelerator. Simple routines like mindful breathing, light exercise, or taking time for yourself during the busy holiday season can make a difference.

6. Protect Your Hair from the Elements

Wearing a loose, silk-lined hat can protect your hair from cold winds without causing breakage. Avoid tight beanies that pull on your hairline.

Treatment Options If Hair Loss Persists

If your hair shedding continues past winter, early intervention is key. Effective treatment options include:

• Topical treatments like minoxidil (Rogaine)

• Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) for stimulating follicles

• PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy in clinical settings

• Prescription medications for underlying hormonal or health issues

• Hair transplant procedures, if suitable

The best treatment depends on the root cause, so professional diagnosis is always recommended before starting anything new.

Final Thoughts: November Is Not the Enemy

Shedding hair in November can feel worrying — but for most people, it’s a natural, temporary cycle rather than permanent loss. By taking a few extra steps to care for your scalp and hair during this time, you can keep shedding under control and set yourself up for stronger growth in the months ahead.

Remember: if your hair loss feels excessive, persistent, or is affecting your confidence, it’s worth talking to a professional. There are more effective treatment options today than ever before.