Bad hair days become more frequent in the fall. Some people think this is similar to the shedding of animal fur, but what is the real reason behind this? In this article, we’ll be discussing the reason behind hair loss in autumn and the ways to prevent it from happening.
Why does hair fall occur more during autumn?
We have a natural hair cycle with alternating periods of hair growth and rest. Usually, during the growth phase of the hair cycle, new hairs are produced. This stage can last four to six years. Then the rest period begins. This phase is called the “telogen”.
After two to four months, the hairy roots begin a new growth cycle. In late summer and fall, the telogen phase is more frequent, leading to more hair loss. The reason for this increase can be traced back to the intense solar radiation in summer. As a protective mechanism for the scalp, more hair roots transition from anagen to telogen. After about three to four months, in the fall, these hairs fall out. Because hair growth is a cycle, telogen effluvium may also increase in spring.
How can we prevent hair loss in autumn?
Vitamins and supplements
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Vitamin A
Vitamin A consists of a portion of retinoic acid, which has been shown to increase the rate of hair growth. This vitamin also helps with sebum production, making your scalp healthier.
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Vitamin D
Vitamin D is associated with non-scarring alopecia. Treating deficiencies may help hair regenerate.
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Ginseng
Taking ginseng supplements can be helpful for hair growth. Ginseng contains certain phytochemicals that promote hair growth on the scalp.
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Biotin
Biotin(also known as vitamin H or B7) is involved in the synthesis of fatty acids in the body. This process is critical to the life cycle of hair, and if you have the defect, you may lose your hair.
Diet
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Increase protein intake
Eating a protein-rich diet may help prevent hair loss. Healthy choices include foods like eggs, nuts, beans and peas, fish, low-fat dairy, chicken, and turkey.
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Try a Mediterranean diet
This diet is mainly helpful for women. A diet containing raw vegetables and fresh herbs, such as the Mediterranean diet, may reduce the risk of androgenetic alopecia.
Check out the infographic below for more information on how what you eat affects your hair!
Infographic created by Hair By Dr. Max, a Florida neograft hair transplant provider
Hair care
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Regularly wash your hair
Washing your hair daily can prevent hair loss by keeping your scalp healthy and clean. The key is to use a mild shampoo.
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Reduce or avoid using harsh chemicals
Chemical treatments, such as perming or coloring, can also damage the hair and scalp. Ask your stylist about alternatives, such as organic hair dyes and other hair dyes that don’t contain ammonia or peroxides.
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Be gentle in styling
Tight hairstyles can pull hair from the roots and can cause excessive hair fall. Let your hair air dry to avoid irritating the scalp. Hair irons, such as curling irons or straighteners, can also damage or break hair.
OTC medications
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Minoxidil
Minoxidil is specifically made for hair growth. Apply a liquid or foam to the scalp daily. Side effects include scalp irritation and acne at the application site. Less common side effects include irregular heartbeat and blurred vision.
