It’s normal to notice a few strands in your brush or shower drain — in fact, most people lose between 50 to 100 hairs per day as part of the natural growth cycle. But how do you know when that shedding crosses the line from normal to something worth paying closer attention to?

Understanding what’s happening beneath the surface — at the scalp and follicle level — can help you distinguish between typical shedding and signs that your scalp might need more support.

The Science of Shedding: What’s Normal

Each hair on your head lives through a natural rhythm known as the hair growth cycle:

• Anagen (Growth Phase): Hair actively grows for two to seven years.

• Catagen (Transition Phase): Follicles shrink and detach from the blood supply for about two weeks.

• Telogen (Resting & Shedding Phase): Old hairs naturally release, and new ones begin to grow beneath the surface.

Because every strand is on its own schedule, daily shedding simply reflects this ongoing renewal process. Occasional seasonal changes or mild stress can increase shedding temporarily — but your scalp typically restores balance on its own.

When Shedding Becomes a Signal

If you’re noticing more hair than usual on your pillow, in your hands, or clogging your brush, it may be worth paying attention to what your scalp is trying to tell you. Signs that your shedding might be more than routine include:

• Widening part lines or thinning at the crown or temples

• Hair coming out in handfuls rather than strands

• Persistent shedding lasting longer than 8–12 weeks

• Changes in scalp condition, such as dryness, flaking, or buildup

These signs don’t always mean something serious — but they can indicate your scalp and follicles are under stress.

Common Triggers for Excess Shedding

Hair shedding can increase due to a variety of internal and external factors that disrupt the scalp’s natural environment:

• Stress and lifestyle changes – emotional or physical strain can temporarily shift hairs into the shedding phase

• Dietary deficiencies – low intake of iron, protein, or key vitamins can affect scalp balance

• Hormonal shifts – postpartum changes, menopause, or thyroid fluctuations can alter growth cycles

• Post-illness recovery – shedding often follows fevers or infections (like COVID-19)

• Environmental or styling stressors – UV exposure, product buildup, or excessive heat styling can irritate the scalp

Understanding what’s behind your shedding helps you take the right approach to restore balance — gently, consistently, and without panic.

How to Support a Healthy Scalp Environment

Rather than focusing solely on the hair you’re losing, think about what’s happening at the scalp level:

• Keep the scalp clean and balanced — buildup can block follicles and lead to more breakage.

• Maintain hydration and pH balance — a scalp environment within the 4.5–5.5 pH range supports comfort and protection.

• Massage the scalp regularly — this helps improve circulation and encourages nutrient delivery to follicles.

• Protect from overprocessing — limit harsh chemicals and heat tools that can irritate the scalp.

• Fuel from within — a balanced diet and adequate hydration nourish both scalp and strands.

Healthy shedding reflects a living, renewing cycle — one that can be supported through consistency and mindful care.

Final Thought

Shedding is part of your hair’s natural rhythm — a reminder that renewal is always happening. Paying attention to your scalp’s signals, maintaining a healthy environment, and managing everyday stress can make all the difference between a temporary phase and lasting vitality.