TL;DR: Yes, it's real, and there are ways to support your body to slow shedding. 

In recent weeks, our clinic has been receiving numerous inquiries from patients expressing their worries about increased hair shedding. It's become somewhat of an annual occurrence, with concerns surging every year as July and August transition into September and October. This recurring phenomenon has led us to ponder the authenticity of seasonal shedding and whether there are measures one can take to address it.

Before delving into this, there are two fundamental aspects to grasp. Firstly, hair shedding is a natural process. On average, individuals shed between 50 to 100 hairs daily. Secondly, it's essential to understand that our hair follicles undergo a continual life cycle comprising three stages:

Anagen – The growth phase, which typically spans three to five years and is when new, healthy, and thick hairs grow from the follicles.

Catagen – The transition phase, which usually persists for around 10 days as hairs detach from their blood supply.

Telogen – The resting phase, extending for about three months, during which hair dies and falls out.

This cycle of growth and shedding is a continuous occurrence, and not all hairs are in the same phase simultaneously. However, an elevated number of hairs being in the telogen phase is what leads to increased shedding. Studies have revealed a cyclic pattern in the prevalence of hairs in the telogen phase. In a notable 2009 study (entitled "Seasonality of Hair Shedding in Healthy Women Complaining of Hair Loss"), after examining 823 cases, researchers found two peak periods when telogen rates were at their highest: one during the summer and another during the spring. Considering that the telogen phase lasts approximately three months, we should expect increased shedding to occur three months after these peak periods, around mid-summer and autumn. While the exact reason for this seasonal shift remains somewhat unclear, many speculate that it's linked to the extreme weather conditions experienced in late spring and summer.

What Can You Do to Combat Seasonal Shedding?

While we can't change the weather, there are practical strategies to enhance the health of your hair during these seasons. In the scorching summer heat, hair tends to become dry and damaged, so it's crucial to use a high-quality conditioner like our Revive Shampoo & Conditioner duo, which hydrates and strengthens hair, making it more resilient against seasonal shedding.

For added support, supplements can be an excellent way to nourish your hair from the inside out. Our Healthy Body Bundle, which includes the Fortifier and Revitalizer supplements, and our Tresse Prebiotic provides essential nutrients to support hair growth and reduce shedding. The Fortifier contains Saw Palmetto, which helps combat the hormonal imbalance that can lead to hair thinning, while the Revitalizer boosts your body's natural defenses, improving overall hair health, and the Tresse Prebiotic addresses total body inflammation and promoting gut health, allowing your body to fully absorb the essential vitamins and nutrients found in the Revitalizer and Fortifier stimulating even better results!

Additionally, consider incorporating our 4-in-1 Conditioning Spray into your routine. It not only protects your hair from environmental damage but also helps detangle and smooth your locks, keeping them healthy and reducing breakage.

Lastly, Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) has been shown to effectively slow down or halt increased shedding. Regular use of LLLT stimulates hair follicles, promoting growth and reducing the telogen phase where shedding occurs.

Don't Panic, It's Likely Seasonal

If you notice a surge in shedding during the fall, bear in mind that it’s most likely attributable to seasonal shedding. In fact, seasonal shedding is even more prevalent during the autumn months than in the summer. However, if you suspect your hair loss goes beyond seasonal fluctuations, we recommend seeking guidance from a hair loss specialist who can assess your condition and provide the most appropriate treatment options.

For personalized advice and treatment, including our in-office Scalp Exfoliation Treatment to give your scalp a fresh start, contact Medi Tresse. We’re here to help you maintain healthy, beautiful hair all year long!