While temperatures are cooling and the leaves are turning, you might notice something different – and possibly shocking – in your regular grooming routine. Excess hair loss is normal during the fall season and often times is not cause for immediate concern, depending on your current health or past hair loss condition(s).
A single strand of hair has a life cycle between 2-6 years before it sheds naturally. In fact, your scalp sheds anywhere between 50-100 strands per day. As part of the growth cycle, follicles produce new hairs to replace what was lost. There’s an average period of about three months between shedding and regrowth.
Seasonal Hair Loss
In a study conducted in 2010, researchers tracked 800 healthy women over the course of six years. The analysis concluded that the subjects lost the most hair from September through November.
Follicles enter a resting phase, or “telogen” state, more frequently in the middle of summer. Hairs usually shed just a few months later, typically in mid-October to November. The research suggests that the tendency of hairs to enter the telogen state in July is likely due to evolution. In preparation for the fall, follicles rest and shed when they aren’t needed as protection against the sun. Then, when the harsh winter arrives, the body begins producing new hairs to guard against the elements.
Luckily, autumn hair loss is not permanent. However, many other permanent hair loss conditions can begin exhibiting symptoms this time of year. Androgenic alopecia, or pattern baldness, is a serious condition affecting millions of Americans each year. To ensure your autumn hair loss isn’t an indication of a continuing problem, try the hair loss test. Find a piece of plain white paper and run your fingers through your hair, from scalp to tip. If you see more than 10 hairs but less than 15, you’re likely experiencing seasonal hair loss. More than 15 hairs on the paper, however, could indicate a serious condition such as androgenic alopecia.
When is it a problem?
When hair continues to fall out without regrowth, women might experience diffuse thinning. In these cases, low-level laser therapy (LLLT) might be recommended. LLLT is a cutting edge treatment that targets inactive follicles and energizes them to re-enter the growth phase. The Hair Transplant Institute of Miami offers LLLT with Capillus, a leading laser cap provider cleared by the FDA for the promotion of hair growth in men and women. The Capillus272 is a laser cap comprised of 272 laser diodes. For men with patterned baldness, LLLT nourishes follicles prior to surgery and helps with healing after the procedure. Capillus can also be used alongside prescription medications, topical treatments or as a standalone therapy.
If you suspect autumn hair loss might be more serious, contact the Hair Transplant of Miami Institute. Our expert physicians can help diagnose your condition and discuss a treatment plan so you can regain your confidence fast.