Why Hair Fall Increase During the Onset of Winter?

Both men and women worry about hair loss, but many observe that the issue tends to get worse with the changing of the seasons, especially when winter arrives. Although seeing additional hair on your pillow, comb, or shower drain may seem concerning, seasonal hair loss is a normal occurrence. You can take the appropriate actions to reduce hair loss and preserve healthy locks even during the winter months if you understand why this occurs.

Seasonal Shedding: A Natural Cycle

Hair often enters the resting phase in the late summer and fall seasons. These latent hairs start to grow out by winter, which causes visible hair loss. Although it is less noticeable in humans, this seasonal shedding is comparable to how animals lose fur to adjust to temperature fluctuations.

Factors Contributing to Hair Fall in Winter

1. Lack of moisture and a dry scalp

Moisture is removed from the scalp by interior heating systems and cold air outdoors. Flakiness, itching, and weaker hair roots are caused by a dry scalp, which increases the likelihood of hair breakage and fall.

2. Reduced Sun Exposure

We are exposed to less sunshine in the winter because of the shorter days and fewer outdoor activities. Vitamin D, which is essential for activating hair follicles, is lowered as a result. Weaker hair strands and more shedding may result from a vitamin D deficit.

3. Blood Circulation Changes

Blood vessels constrict at cold temperatures. Hair follicles may not receive sufficient oxygen and nutrients due to reduced movement to the scalp, which can harm their development cycle and lead to hair loss.

4. Increased Stress Levels

Many people experience changes in their lifestyle and increased job pressure. One well-known component that throws off the hair growth cycle is stress, which causes more follicles to enter the resting phase and increases shedding.

5. Hot showers and excessive washing

People typically wash their hair with hot water to ward off the cold. The scalp might become dry and fragile after taking a hot shower because it loses its natural oils. During the winter, over-cleaning with strong shampoos can exacerbate this issue.

How to Manage Hair Fall in Winter

Even though seasonal hair loss is inevitable, you may lessen its intensity and preserve the health of your hair by using these practical care suggestions:

• Moisturize the Scalp

Massage your scalp at least twice a week with nutritious hair oils such as coconut, almond, or argan oil. This strengthens hair roots and increases blood circulation in addition to hydrating the scalp.

• Use Gentle Hair Cleaners

Select shampoos that don’t exclude natural oils and don’t include sulphates. To avoid dry hair, wash your hair with moderately warm water rather than hot water.

• Maintain a Balanced Diet

Include foods high in nutrients, such as seasonal fruits, leafy greens, eggs, fatty fish, nuts, and seeds. These offer vital elements and vitamins that support strong and healthy hair development.

• Drink plenty of water.

Wintertime causes people to drink less water, but dehydration also affects the health of the scalp. To keep your body and scalp hydrated, make it a point to drink enough water throughout the day.

• Protect Your Hair from Harsh Weather

To protect your hair and scalp from drying out in cold weather, wear a scarf or a hat. To prevent friction that might lead to breaking, select breathable materials.

When to Seek Professional Help?

Although seasonal shedding is transient and often diminishes within a few weeks, severe or protracted hair loss may be a sign of a more serious issue, such as thyroid problems, hormone imbalances, or long-term deficiencies. For an accurate diagnosis and course of treatment, it is advised to see a dermatologist if hair loss persists throughout the winter months or causes noticeable thinning.

Seasonal cycles, environmental shifts, and lifestyle choices all naturally contribute to an increase in hair loss at the start of winter. Although this trend may appear concerning, being aware of the causes will help you take preventative action. You can reduce winter hair loss and maintain healthy, strong hair throughout the year by taking good care of your scalp, eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and protecting your hair from extreme weather.