Why is my hair falling out? Understanding the difference between breakage and shedding

Noticing more hair in your brush or pillow can be alarming. Hair is a reflection of our identity and style, and when it seems to be falling out more than usual, it can lead to worry. Many people wonder, “Why is my hair falling out?” By understanding the difference between hair breakage and shedding, you can tackle the problem more effectively. Let’s understand the causes of hair loss and how to identify whether you are experiencing breakage or shedding.

The Basics: Hair Growth Cycle

To grasp the concepts of hair breakage and shedding, it’s essential to know the natural growth cycle of hair. Hair goes through three main stages:

Anagen (Growth) Phase: This phase can last anywhere from 2 to 7 years. It’s when your hair is actively growing.
Catagen (Transition) Phase: This stage lasts around 2 to 3 weeks. The hair stops growing and prepares to shed.
Telogen (Resting) Phase: The resting phase lasts about 2 to 3 months. Between 10% to 15% of your hair is in this phase at any given time.

During this resting phase, it is normal to lose some hair, with an average of about 50 to 100 strands per day. However, if you notice more hair loss than this, it might indicate an underlying issue related to either shedding or breakage.

What is Hair Shedding?

Hair shedding is a natural part of the hair growth cycle. It involves hair falling out from the roots, particularly during the telogen phase. On average, people may shed between 50 to 100 hairs daily, which is perfectly normal. However, excessive shedding could be due to several factors:

Stress: Physical or emotional stress can push more hair into the shedding phase. Studies show that stress can increase hair loss by up to 20% in some individuals.
Hormonal Changes: Events like pregnancy, menopause, or thyroid-related changes can lead to increased shedding. For instance, up to 90% of women experience hair shedding in the months following childbirth.
Poor Nutrition: A diet low in essential nutrients, such as proteins and vitamins, can impair hair health. For example, a deficiency in iron can lead to hair loss, as iron is crucial for hair growth.
Medical Conditions: Conditions like alopecia areata, which affects about 2% of the population, can lead to significant hair shedding.

If you notice clumps of hair in your brush or on your pillow, it may indicate an issue with shedding.

What is Hair Breakage?

In contrast to shedding, hair breakage occurs when the hair shaft becomes damaged and snaps off, resulting in uneven, shorter strands that may look frizzy or limp. Here are common causes of hair breakage:

Heat Damage: The frequent use of heat styling tools can dry out your hair. Research shows that excess heat can reduce hair moisture by 75%, leading to significant breakage.
Chemical Treatments: Regularly coloring, perming, or relaxing hair can weaken its structure, increasing the likelihood of breakage.
Mechanical Damage: Over-brushing or using tight hair ties can put stress on the hair, leading to breakage.
Lack of Moisture: Hair that is dry and brittle is more prone to breakage. For example, hair treated with harsh conditioners may lose its natural oils and become susceptible to damage.

If you notice rough ends or a lack of thickness in your hair, you are likely dealing with breakage rather than shedding.

Signs of Hair Shedding vs. Breakage

Why is my hair falling out? Knowing whether your issue is shedding or breakage is key to finding the right solution. Here are some signs to help you differentiate:

Hair Shedding:

You see more hair in your brush or on your clothes than usual.
Shed hair has a follicle at the end, appearing like a tiny bulb.
Hair loss is consistent and evenly distributed across your scalp.

Hair Breakage:

Hair looks uneven, with noticeable shorter strands mixed in.
Ends feel rough or dry, often showing signs of frizz.
You can see split ends or a "broomstick" appearance when your hair is pulled back.

Being able to identify these signs can guide you towards effective solutions.

How to Address Hair Shedding

If you discover that you are experiencing hair shedding, consider implementing the following tips:

Manage Stress: Engage in relaxation techniques such as yoga or deep breathing exercises. Studies indicate that practicing mindfulness can reduce hair loss linked to stress.
Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on foods rich in vitamins and minerals, like spinach (iron), nuts (zinc), and salmon (omega-3 fatty acids). These nutrients are vital for strong, healthy hair.
Consult a Doctor: If you observe sudden or excessive shedding, visit a healthcare professional. They can identify any underlying health issues, including hormonal imbalances or nutritional deficiencies.

How to Address Hair Breakage

If breakage is your main concern, you can try these strategies:

Minimize Heat Exposure: Reduce the use of heat styling tools. If you must use them, apply a heat protectant to shield your hair from damage.
Use Gentle Hair Care Products: Opt for sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners designed to nourish and hydrate. These products help maintain hair moisture without stripping natural oils.
Regular Trims: Schedule trims every 6 to 8 weeks to eliminate split ends and promote healthier hair.
Deep Conditioning Treatments: Incorporate weekly deep conditioning masks or treatments to restore moisture and elasticity, making your hair less prone to breakage.

By understanding your specific hair loss issue and addressing it directly, you can improve the health and appearance of your hair.

Why is my hair falling out? Final Thoughts

Grasping the difference between hair breakage and shedding is crucial if you've ever asked, "Why is my hair falling out?" By closely examining your symptoms and potential causes, you can take effective steps to promote healthier hair. Whether through better nutrition or improved hair care routines, proactive measures are key.

Remember, losing some hair daily is normal, as it is part of the natural growth cycle. However, if excessive hair loss is a concern, seeking professional help can provide additional guidance. Beautiful hair is possible with awareness and care!