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Losing a few hairs in the shower or on your pillow? You’re not alone! While it can be worrying to see hair falling out, it’s helpful to know that some hair loss is natural and normal. In this blog, we’ll break down the difference between hair shedding and hair loss and explain when it might be time to reach out for help from a professional.
What’s the Difference Between Hair Shedding and Hair Loss?
Hair shedding and hair loss are terms often used interchangeably, but they actually describe two different things.
Hair shedding is a natural process where your hair falls out temporarily and grows back. Most people shed around 50 to 100 hairs a day, which is perfectly normal.
Hair loss (also known as alopecia) is when your hair falls out and doesn’t regrow, leading to thinning or bald patches over time.
Let’s dig deeper into each of these.
Hair Shedding: A Temporary Situation
Shedding happens naturally and is usually due to lifestyle or temporary changes in the body. Here are some common causes of hair shedding:
Stress: Physical or emotional stress can trigger sudden shedding.
Hormonal changes: Postpartum, menopause, or hormonal shifts can increase shedding.
Health events: Major surgeries, rapid weight loss, or illness.
The good news is that, once the underlying issue is resolved, hair usually returns to its regular growth cycle.
Understanding the Hair Growth Cycle
Your hair grows in a cycle with three main phases:
Anagen phase: The growth phase.
Catagen phase: A short transition phase.
Telogen phase: The resting phase when old hair sheds to make way for new growth.
This cycle is natural, and shedding about 50-100 hairs daily is expected. But if you’re noticing more than that or clumps of hair, it might be a sign to consult an expert.
Hair Loss: When Hair Doesn’t Grow Back
Hair loss is different from hair shedding because, with hair loss, hair doesn’t regrow. This can be caused by several factors:
Genetics: Androgenetic alopecia (also known as male or female pattern baldness) is a hereditary form of hair loss.
Traction: Tight hairstyles can lead to a condition called traction alopecia, where constant pulling damages the hair follicles.
Autoimmune conditions: Alopecia areata is a condition where the body’s immune system attacks hair follicles, causing patchy hair loss.
Unlike temporary shedding, hair loss may require treatment to slow it down or encourage regrowth.
Signs of Hair Loss
If you’re experiencing any of these signs, it could be hair loss rather than shedding:
Widening part or visible scalp
Thinning hair throughout the scalp
Bald patches that grow over time
Hairline that’s receding
Treatments for Hair Shedding and Hair Loss
Not all hair loss is permanent, and there are ways to address both shedding and hair loss.
Minoxidil
Minoxidil (also known as Rogaine®) is a topical or oral treatment for hair thinning. Studies show it can effectively boost hair regrowth, helping keep your scalp fuller.
Finasteride
Finasteride is an oral treatment that helps slow hair loss, particularly in men. By reducing a hormone that shrinks hair follicles, finasteride is often effective for those with androgenetic alopecia.
Lifestyle Changes
Reducing stress, eating a balanced diet, and taking care of your hair can all help improve hair health. If you’re stressed, consider speaking to a mental health professional or finding stress-management techniques that work for you.
FAQs: Hair Shedding vs. Hair Loss
What’s the difference between hair shedding and hair loss?
Hair shedding is normal and temporary; it’s part of the hair growth cycle. Hair loss means hair doesn’t regrow as it falls out and may be more permanent.
How do I know if I’m experiencing hair shedding or hair loss?
If you’re losing more than 100 hairs a day or noticing bald patches, consult a professional, as this may be a sign of hair loss.
When should I worry about hair shedding?
Excessive shedding that lasts over a few months or hair coming out in clumps could indicate an issue. Consulting a specialist can help you understand what’s going on.
Is there a way to stop hair shedding?
Hair shedding due to stress or temporary factors can often be managed with lifestyle adjustments. If you’re worried about your shedding, consider seeing a dermatologist.
FAQs: Restore Hair Loss and Scalp Clinic
What services does Restore Hair Loss and Scalp Clinic offer?
Restore Hair Loss and Scalp Clinic provides expert treatments for hair loss, scalp health, and overall wellness, tailored to each individual’s needs.
Where is Restore Hair Loss and Scalp Clinic located?
Restore Hair Loss and Scalp Clinic is located at 10014 102 Avenue Unit 102, Grande Prairie, Alberta.
How can Restore Hair Loss and Scalp Clinic help with hair shedding and hair loss?
Restore Hair Loss and Scalp Clinic specializes in assessing hair and scalp health, providing personalized recommendations for both temporary shedding and long-term hair loss.
Takeaways
Understanding the difference between hair shedding and hair loss is key to knowing when to take action. Temporary shedding is usually nothing to worry about, but if you notice thinning or bald patches, reaching out to experts at Restore Hair Loss and Scalp Clinic can help you explore solutions.
Taking charge of your hair health is possible—and there are effective treatments out there for both shedding and hair loss. Whether it’s a lifestyle change, a treatment like minoxidil, or expert advice, you don’t have to face hair loss concerns alone.
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