Autumn Hair Shedding: Why It Happens and How to Support Your Hair
Autumn Hair Shedding: Why It Happens and How to Support Your Hair
Have you noticed your hair shedding a little more than usual lately? As we move into autumn, this is something many people experience—and the good news is, it’s completely normal.
Is Autumn Hair Shedding Normal?
Yes—seasonal hair shedding is a real phenomenon. While there hasn’t been extensive scientific research, dermatologists widely recognise that people tend to shed more hair during autumn.
This shift is linked to natural hair growth cycles, where more hairs move into the resting (telogen) phase and are released at the same time. So, if your brush or shower drain is looking fuller than usual, there’s no need to panic.
Why Does Hair Shed More in Autumn?
Seasonal transitions can impact your hair in subtle ways.
1. Natural Hair Growth Cycles
Hair grows in three phases: the growth phase (anagen), transition phase (catagen), and resting phase (telogen). Studies suggest that towards the end of summer, a higher number of hairs shift into the resting phase, which can result in increased shedding during autumn.
2. Sun Exposure from Summer
Increased sun exposure during summer may prolong the growth phase of hair. When autumn arrives, those hairs are more likely to shed at once, creating the feeling of sudden hair loss.
3. Hormonal Fluctuations
Changes in daylight and seasonal rhythms can subtly influence hormones that affect hair growth and shedding patterns.
4. Environmental Changes
Cooler, drier air can impact scalp health, potentially weakening hair strands and making shedding more noticeable.
How to Support Your Hair During Autumn Shedding
If you’ve noticed increased shedding, a few simple adjustments to your routine can help support your hair and scalp through the season.
Reduce Heat Styling
Try to limit the use of straighteners, curling tongs, and excessive blow-drying. Heat can weaken the hair shaft, making strands more prone to breakage and fall.
Swap Out Tight Hair Ties
If you have long hair, ditch rubber bands and opt for scrunchies or soft fabric ties instead. These are much gentler and won’t pull or stress the hair at the root.
Support Hair from Within
Ensure your diet includes key nutrients like iron, zinc, biotin, and protein—all essential for healthy hair growth. You may also like to talk to a professional about supplements if your dietary intake is low.
Manage Stress
Stress can exacerbate hair shedding. Incorporating calming practices like meditation, walking, or breathwork can make a noticeable difference.
Switch to Gentle Haircare
Using mild, natural formulations that won’t strip the scalp of its natural oils, especially during windy or excessively dry months. NueBar is a Naturopath formulated range designed to maintain balance within the scalp and hair whether it is oily, dry, sensitive or if you have normal hair.
Shampoo Less, Condition More
Over-washing can strip the scalp of its natural oils, especially in cooler weather. Instead, focus on hydration by conditioning more regularly. A well-nourished scalp supports stronger, healthier hair growth.
This is also the perfect time to explore co-washing—a method of cleansing the hair with conditioner rather than shampoo to maintain moisture and reduce dryness. For extra nourishment, using a rich conditioner formulated with ingredients like organic argan oil and rapeseed (canola) oil can help strengthen dry, fragile hair and reduce breakage. You can read more about co-washing here.
Embrace the Seasonal Shift
Autumn shedding is simply part of your body’s natural rhythm. By adjusting your haircare routine and focusing on holistic nourishment, you can support your hair through this transition and keep it feeling healthy and strong.
