It's normal to lose some hairs (50-150/day) when running your hands through your hair, as you're dislodging hairs already in the resting (telogen) phase of their growth cycle; however, excessive loss can signal underlying issues like stress, nutritional deficiencies (iron, B12), hormonal changes, thyroid problems, or genetics, often worsened by harsh styling or tight hairstyles that physically pull hairs out (traction alopecia), so if it's excessive, see a dermatologist.
It's perfectly normal to lose a few stray strands when running your fingers, or a comb, through your hair. But if you notice increased hair being pulled out when you are being gentle, this can be a cause of concern that you should get checked over.
Every day, it's completely normal for us to lose between 50-150 hair follicles. This process occurs without many of us even noticing! Hair loss normally occurs when we touch, brush, or run fingers through our hair. Hair follicles are quite delicate, and so they can become easily dislodged.
Key vitamin deficiencies linked to hair loss include Vitamin D, B12, Biotin (B7), and Iron, with low levels of these nutrients affecting hair follicle function, protein production (like keratin), and oxygen supply, leading to thinning or shedding; however, excessive intake of some vitamins (like A or selenium) can also cause hair loss, so a doctor should confirm deficiencies via blood tests before supplementing.
Bottom line: occasional hair falling from pulling is common and not likely to leave you hairless; repetitive, chronic pulling can cause permanent patchy hair loss, so stop the behavior and seek dermatologic and/or behavioral help if it continues.
5 telltale signs of hair loss
The "Big 3" hair loss treatments, popular in forums, are Minoxidil, Finasteride, and Ketoconazole shampoo, often combined to tackle hereditary hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) by boosting growth, blocking hormones, and reducing inflammation. Minoxidil (Rogaine) widens blood vessels, Finasteride (Propecia) blocks DHT, and Ketoconazole fights scalp fungus and inflammation, with microneedling sometimes considered a fourth addition.
The best hair fall diet includes protein-rich foods such as eggs, fish, and legumes; iron-rich foods like spinach and lentils; and vitamins from fresh fruits, nuts, and seeds. Including omega-3 fatty acids also supports scalp health.
Although a deficiency in B12 may lead to hair loss, research does not suggest that people who do not have a deficiency can improve their hair growth by using a supplement. Nevertheless, getting enough vitamin B12 is essential for overall health. Good sources of vitamin B12 include meat, dairy, and other animal foods.
Yes, low magnesium levels can disrupt the natural cycle of hair growth and lead to hair loss.
"When washing your hair nearly every day, it's normal to lose 200 hairs a day," says Dr. McCarty. "Less frequent washing may cause you to think that you are losing more hair than you actually are, which, in turn, can cause you to become stressed, making hair shed more!"
Excessive hair touching is a repetitive and addictive habit that can be extremely hard to stop and can lead to Trichotillomania - a hair pulling disorder. Many women who's hands are always buried in their hair, typically suffer from very dry ends, oily roots, hair loss and poor overall hair condition.
10 hair care habits that can damage your hair
Due to your frantically touching your locks, your hair can sometimes get weakened, even at the roots. Without wanting to be alarmist, in very rare cases your hair can end up falling out. This can also happen when excessively brushing your hair, causing even healthy hairs to fall out.
Lupus hair loss usually happens gradually all over the head instead of in obvious bald patches like in male or female pattern baldness. Keep an eye out for more hairs on your brush, thinning at the scalp line or crown, and unusual breakage. Don't ignore these red flags.
Key vitamin deficiencies linked to hair loss include Vitamin D, B12, Biotin (B7), and Iron, with low levels of these nutrients affecting hair follicle function, protein production (like keratin), and oxygen supply, leading to thinning or shedding; however, excessive intake of some vitamins (like A or selenium) can also cause hair loss, so a doctor should confirm deficiencies via blood tests before supplementing.
Symptoms of vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anaemia
The foods highest in Vitamin B12 are animal products, with clams and liver (beef, lamb) being exceptionally rich sources, often providing several hundred percent of the daily value in a single serving, alongside seafood like mussels, sardines, and salmon, dairy, eggs, and fortified cereals and nutritional yeast for vegans.
The "Big 3" for thinning hair, especially male/female pattern baldness, are typically Minoxidil (Rogaine), Finasteride (Propecia), and sometimes Ketoconazole shampoo, or even Microneedling, forming a multimodal approach to stimulate growth and block hormones (DHT) causing hair loss, with Minoxidil boosting circulation, Finasteride inhibiting DHT, and Ketoconazole reducing inflammation and acting as a mild anti-androgen.
Those with fine hair or oily scalps typically need to shampoo more frequently, roughly once a day or once every other day. If you have thick, coarse, or chemically treated hair, you may benefit from a less frequent wash schedule.
To help prevent hair loss: Eat a healthy diet that includes enough calories, protein and iron. Find ways to cope with stress. Manage thyroid disease or other medical conditions that could result in hair loss.
Japanese scalp treatments focus on cleansing, stimulating, and nourishing the scalp to create an ideal environment for healthy hair growth. These treatments remove buildup, improve circulation, and strengthen hair follicles, helping with early signs of hair loss and thinning.
Stage 7: The most advanced androgenetic alopecia
This is the most advanced stage of male pattern baldness. The top of the head is completely bald, but some hair is still thinner and of varying density at the back and on the sides.