How to manage hair shedding
Do you ever freak out at the clump of hair in your drain? Same. But the truth is that losing 50–100 hairs a day is totally normal—your follicles are constantly cycling through growth, rest, and release. But when that number jumps, or you notice your ponytail shrinking, it’s time to find out why.
Hair‑Growth Cycle Cliff Notes
Anagen (growth) – 3–7 years
Catagen (transition) – ~2 weeks
Telogen (rest/shedding) – ~3 months
Anything that shoves more strands into telogen = visible shedding.
Top Shedding Triggers
Stress & major life events (exams, illness, break‑ups) -> Telogen effluvium hits ~2–3 months later
Hormonal shifts (post‑partum, stopping birth control, thyroid swings, PCOS) -> Follicles miniaturize or enter rest phase
Medical conditions (low iron/ferritin, vitamin D deficiency, autoimmune, rapid weight loss) -> Nutrient shortfalls stunt growth
Genetics (androgenetic alopecia) -> Shorter anagen phases + thinner, finer hairs
Medications (retinoids, beta‑blockers, anticoagulants, chemo) -> Direct follicle toxicity or cycle disruption
Traction styles & heat (tight buns, braids, extensions, daily hot tools) -> Constant tension = broken or dormant follicles
Scalp inflammation (seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis) -> Inflamed environment chokes follicles
Slow the Shed
1. Nourish From Within
Balanced plate: protein, healthy fats, leafy greens, berries
Check ferritin levels —aim > 70 ng/mL for hair health
Consider Nutrafol Women (saw palmetto + adaptogens) if your derm is okay with it
2. Stimulate & Strengthen
5‑minute scalp massages or a silicone scrubber boost circulation
Low‑level laser comb/helmet 3x weekly (I use HairMax)
3. Protective Styling
Loose braids or claw clips > tight elastics
Switch part lines weekly to reduce constant tension
Silk/satin pillowcases cut friction and keep blowouts fresh
4. Chill the Stress Response
10 deep belly breaths, journaling, or 15‑minute walks = lower cortisol
Aim for 7–8 hours sleep—growth hormone surges at night
Final Tea ☕
Shedding happens—but persistent, patchy, or sudden clumps deserve a derm appointment to rule out medical triggers. Stick to gentle care, feed those follicles, manage stress, and your strands will stay stronger, longer.