Your hair is in a constant cycle of growth and regrowth. As we age, this cycle can be changed by our health, environmental factors, and more. So, how can we know when normal shedding becomes hair thinning? What about hair loss? This article will explore the differences between shedding, thinning, and hair loss, and how you can spot them.
Understanding How Hair Grows
Hair follicles are constantly growing and dying on our heads. Your hair grows from within the skin and pushes outward to the top of your head. Generally, hair follows a natural cycle of growth, a transitional phase, and then a resting phase, where the hair will fall out. This cycle is constantly starting and restarting across your head, and different follicles are experiencing this cycle at different points. This cycle can last 2-6 years per hair, across about 100,000 hairs on your head, according to the National Library of Medicine.
Hair Shedding
Shedding is a natural part of the hair cycle. As a new hair grows out from below an older hair, it pushes the older strand free from the scalp. Most people will naturally shed about 50-150 hairs a day. These can end up in your hairbrush, your shower drain, or all over your home. Occasionally, you may shed more or less hair during some periods. Hormonal changes, diet, hydration, stress, genetics, and other factors may slightly alter your daily shedding amount. But it likely won’t be too noticeable.
Hair Thinning
Hair thinning refers to a gradual density loss in the thickness of your hair. This happens slowly over time. As new growth occurs, hair may be finer and lighter. Thinner hair may not hold volume as effectively. Thinner strands will also grow to a shorter length before falling out. This is why many older women adjust to shorter hairstyles.
Aging and the hormonal changes that come with aging are often one of the most common causes of hair thinning. Additional causes can include genetics, some illnesses or treatments, stress, and malnutrition. Even the way you style your hair can contribute to hair thinning. Hair will usually get thinner before hair loss starts to occur. If you are noticing your hair thinning, your doctor may be able to recommend ways to limit thinning or prevent hair loss. Early intervention often yields better results.
Hair Loss
When hair falls out and is not replaced with a new follicle, hair loss occurs. Hair loss most often happens when something affects the natural growth cycle. As you age, hair loss can occur, but it is more common in men than women. You may also be genetically predisposed to hair loss at an earlier age. You may notice bald patches or spots where hair is not as plentiful. Major hormone shifts, health conditions, or some medications may also trigger premature hair loss. A common example of this is radiation or chemotherapy treatments in cancer patients. Hair loss can be something that should be discussed with your doctor or dermatologist.
Reducing Hair Thinning or Loss with Styling
The way you treat your hair can be a factor in hair thinning and loss. Frequent color treatments can stress follicles and make the hair more brittle. Strands that are more prone to breakage may start thinning or stop growing. Frequent use of heat styling tools can also stress hair follicles and lead to weaker, thinner hair. Trimming breakage can help maintain the health of your hair. While some people take Hair, Skin, and Nail vitamins to help with their hair health, there is little research on their efficacy. Talk with your stylist for tips on caring for your locks and reducing causes of hair thinning.
Ooh La La specializes in a variety of hairstyle techniques to help you find the right look for you. Book a time with one of our professional hairstylists today. Contact us or call 718-727-2694 today.