Seasonal Hair Fall – Why It Happens and How to Control It Effectively

As the weather changes, many people notice more hair in their brushes or on their pillowcases. While it’s easy to panic, seasonal hair fall is a natural biological response – and understanding it is key to managing it calmly and effectively.

Hair, much like skin, responds to environmental changes such as temperature, humidity, and sun exposure. Recognising why it happens and adopting the right care routine can make seasonal shedding a minor concern instead of a recurring frustration.

For those experiencing excessive or persistent hair loss, hair transplant clinics in Mumbai play a vital role by offering expert diagnosis and personalised treatment plans that address the underlying causes and help restore hair health through advanced care and technology.

The Science Behind Seasonal Hair Fall

Humans experience cyclical hair growth influenced by light exposure, temperature, and hormones. Studies suggest that more hairs enter the shedding (telogen) phase during autumn and late summer, likely as an evolutionary adaptation to protect the scalp from heat or UV exposure.

Typically, this shedding lasts 6–8 weeks and may result in losing up to 100–150 hairs daily, slightly above the normal range. However, when combined with stress, poor nutrition, or underlying conditions, it can appear more severe.

How Each Season Affects Hair

• Summer: UV rays and sweat lead to scalp dehydration and increased breakage.
• Monsoon: High humidity encourages fungal infections and frizz, weakening roots.
• Winter: Dry air depletes moisture, causing static, dandruff, and brittle strands.

Environmental stressors impact follicle activity, making scalp care and hydration essential year-round.

Nutrition’s Role in Seasonal Shedding

The changing climate often affects diet and nutrient absorption. During summer, dehydration and reduced appetite can limit nutrient intake; in winter, heavy foods may slow metabolism.

To maintain consistency:

1. Include protein (eggs, fish, lentils) daily.
2. Eat vitamin C-rich fruits to improve iron absorption.
3. Add omega-3 sources like walnuts and flaxseeds for hydration.

A balanced diet helps follicles withstand external stress, ensuring minimal shedding despite environmental fluctuations.

The Impact of Stress and Sleep

Seasonal shifts, particularly shorter daylight hours, can affect mood and sleep cycles, increasing cortisol levels – a major trigger for telogen effluvium. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, deep breathing, or light exercise can significantly improve scalp circulation and reduce fallout.

Regular sleep restores hormonal balance and supports the scalp’s overnight repair process, helping new follicles emerge stronger.

Adjusting Your Hair Care Routine

What works in one season might not work in another. Adapt your regimen to protect against environmental stress:

• Summer: Use UV-protectant sprays and hydrating masks.
• Monsoon: Wash more frequently to prevent fungal buildup.
• Winter: Switch to richer conditioners and oil massages.

Avoid washing with very hot water, as it strips natural oils, and minimise heat styling during dry seasons.

Clinics like Bloom Hair Transplant often recommend scalp therapies that exfoliate, hydrate, and strengthen follicles year-round; preventing cumulative seasonal damage.

Natural Remedies and Scalp Therapy

Simple natural remedies can help rebalance scalp health:

• Aloe vera gel: Soothes irritation and moisturises.
• Coconut oil: Reduces protein loss and improves elasticity.
• Green tea rinse: Provides antioxidants to combat stress-induced shedding.

Consistency matters – small efforts done regularly protect follicles from becoming dormant.

When to Worry

While mild seasonal shedding is normal, consult a specialist if:

1. Hair loss continues beyond two months.
2. You notice thinning patches or a visible scalp.
3. Hair breaks mid-length instead of shedding from the root.

Persistent loss may indicate hormonal imbalance, nutritional deficiency, or underlying scalp conditions requiring professional care.

Adapt, Nourish, and Protect

Your hair, like your skin, changes with the seasons. Recognising these natural cycles and adjusting care habits accordingly prevents unnecessary panic and ensures long-term strength.

Eat well, manage stress, stay hydrated, and treat your scalp with kindness. With mindful care – and guidance from experts when needed – you can keep your hair healthy and resilient, season after season.