“The first is in July and August and the second—and more significant—is November and December into half of January.” The hair is thickest in the summer to serve as protection from the sun. He adds, “The shedding during these months is a temporary situation. The hair will grow back in about three months.”
So, some hair follicles are always in the active growth phase, while some are in the resting phase. The hair of all mammals follows this growth cycle, but we humans are unique in that our hair doesn't shed during hot weather and grow thicker during cold weather.
Seasonal shedding often occurs during the fall months, such as September and October, and at some point in the spring, like April and May. This timeline often coincides with the second half of the hair growth cycle, where more hairs are shed.
Excessive hair loss in winter is largely due to the dry air outside that sucks out all the moisture from your scalp, and makes it dry. A dry scalp leads to dry hair, which in turn results in hair damage, breakage, and hair loss.
During late summer and autumn, telogen phases ("hair") are more frequent, which results in more hair falling out. The reason for this increase can be traced back to intensive sun radiation during summer. As a protection mechanism for the scalp, more hair roots switch from the growth phase to the resting phase.
While the winter season brings respite from months of hot and humid weather, it also brings with it a range of skin and hair issues. The season is dry, and hence, makes our skin and scalp dry and flaky, too. Resultantly, we tend to suffer from an excessive amount of hair fall during winter.
Dryness caused by heat and humidity can cause hair to break. This can lead to the appearance of thinner hair, even though you're not actually losing hair from the follicle. If your hair has a very dry or brittle texture, it's likely that you're experiencing hair breakage rather than hair loss.
Nearly everyone has some hair loss with aging. The rate of hair growth also slows. Hair strands become smaller and have less pigment. So the thick, coarse hair of a young adult eventually becomes thin, fine, light-colored hair.
The study indicated that hair loss is more common in summer and fall than in winter and spring, supporting previous research and clinical observations. “What is also interesting is that seasonal variations in hair loss also occurs in animals and has been noted in studies with rhesus monkeys, cats, and dogs.
Dorin suggests a quick trick: "Take about 60 hairs in your hand and run your fingers through it. Usually between five and eight hairs will come out — this is normal." (You're running your hand through your hair right now, aren't you?)
Exogen: Shedding phase
During the exogen phase, which can last about 2 to 5 months, new hairs are growing in the follicles as old hairs fall away.
A: Hair will increase in diameter when there is more humidity, as it absorbs moisture, and will actually be thicker in the more humid summer environment.
Wet hair weighs more than dry hair, mostly because of water trapped between individual strands.
So is there any weather that will ensure a Good Hair Day?? Mild temps with moderate humidity are the best but most of us can't choose our weather conditions. The best way to ensure that your hair stays healthy and strong in all climates is to use proper shampoos, conditioners and other products that help seal the hair.
Here's the truth: You can't change the size of your hair follicles. If you were born with fine hair, it's genetics, and no product will completely alter that. Of course, there are ways to maintain your hair health, add volume, and keep it from getting any thinner.
No matter what type of hair you have, washing it too often can lead to hair loss. It can also make your hair brittle and vulnerable to breakage, which is especially concerning for thin, aging hair that is already so fragile.
Why Greasy Hair Looks Thin. According to hair expert Jean Will of NiaWigs, an oily scalp makes your hair look thinner because a buildup of excess oil at the base of your hair follicles causes strands to clump together. “Greasy hair looks thin because of its oily look,” she said.
Hairstyling and scalp massage
using a gentle shampoo that does not remove moisture. using a moisturizing conditioner to reduce breakage and split ends. applying a leave-in conditioner after washing and conditioning to prevent frizz and breakage. wrapping the hair in a microfiber towel before blow-drying it.
Hair follicles come in different shapes and sizes, affecting hair texture and width. Some people have wider follicles-and therefore, thicker hair strands-than other people. Genetics influence hair thickness, but other factors like hormones and age are important factors, too.
Lifestyle factors could include using certain hair products, wearing your hair up too tightly, experiencing high stress levels, or not getting enough of certain vitamins and minerals in your diet. People who have immune system deficiencies could also have thinning hair.
If you are experiencing thinning or balding, our Bosley experts recommend washing no more than three times a week.
In fact, when you don't wash your hair enough, you allow oils and dirt to build up on your scalp and clog your pores, paving the way for actual hair loss. That's why finding the perfect frequency for your shampooing schedule is the key to caring for your scalp and avoiding hair loss.