Do you lose more hair in summer? Here's how to prevent it

Although we spend days scratching our heads trying to find reasons, hair fall and hair loss are very common experiences that affect a significant portion of the population, especially as people age.

While 30-50% of men experience receding hairline and male pattern baldness by age 50, approximately 30% of middle-aged women experience female pattern baldness and hair thinning, which may start as early as puberty.



Is hair fall seasonal?

While some hair loss is normal, excessive shedding can indicate underlying issues. Everyone experiences some hair shedding daily.


However, hair fall can fluctuate with the seasons, with many people noticing an increase in hair shedding during the fall and spring. This phenomenon, often referred to as seasonal hair loss, is typically attributed to hormonal changes, shifts in the hair growth cycle, and environmental factors like stress and seasonal allergies.

While not as pronounced as fall or spring, some individuals may experience increased hair fall in the summer due to heat exposure, swimming pool chemicals, and increased sweat.


What does study say?

A study conducted by Swedish researchers tracked 800 women over a period of six years and discovered that in the summer months, most hair is in its resting phase. Each hair undergoes a growth cycle divided into three stages: anagen (growth), catagen (transition), and telogen (resting). Generally, a single hair strand has a lifespan ranging from 2 to 6 years, during which it grows normally. Approximately 10% of hair may be in the telogen phase, preparing for regrowth, making it susceptible to increased shedding and falling out. In the summertime, hair tends to stay in the telogen phase for an extended duration, leading to some noticeable loss, but it is in Autumn that the highest rate of shedding is observed.


Summer hair fall – myth or fact?

During the summer, increased sunlight exposure leads to our body producing less melatonin, which can influence hormone levels in the scalp. As a result, during the summer months, hair will spend a longer time in the resting phase than normal, leading to greater hair loss in the autumn. However, once these hairs fall out, they will be replaced, and the hair follicle will eventually re-enter the growth phase. Additionally, the level of testosterone affects hair loss during summer; while it is mainly considered a male hormone, it is also present in women, and its levels tend to rise during the summer and autumn months, potentially causing hair loss.


The following are the possible reasons behind more hair fall in the summer:

Hormonal fluctuations: Studies suggest that hormonal shifts, particularly those related to testosterone (which is present in both men and women), can be linked to increased shedding during the summer and early fall.

Sun exposure: Excessive sun exposure can dry out the scalp and hair, making them more brittle and prone to breakage and shedding.

Dehydration: Hot weather can lead to increased perspiration and dehydration, which can also affect hair health and contribute to shedding.

Heat styling and chemical treatments: The use of heat styling tools and chemical treatments, which are often more common during the summer, can weaken hair and increase shedding.

Seasonal changes: Some research suggests that humans, like many mammals, may experience a natural shedding cycle that coincides with seasonal changes, potentially influenced by changes in daylight and hormone levels.


How to prevent summer hair fall:

To prevent summer hair fall, focus on keeping your hair healthy and hydrated. This includes regular hair washing, sun protection, avoiding heat styling, and a balanced diet. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and consider using protective hairstyles.


Here are some tips and tricks:

Keep your hair clean: Sweat, dirt, and pollution can build up in summer, so washing your hair regularly helps to remove them. Choose a shampoo that is mild and won't strip your hair of its natural oils.

Protect your hair from the sun: Wear a hat or scarf to shield your hair from direct sunlight, as it can cause damage and dryness. Apply a leave-in conditioner with sun protection to help shield your hair from UV rays.

Minimize heat styling: Avoid heat styling tools. Heat styling tools can damage your hair, making it more prone to breakage and hair fall. If you must use heat tools, apply a heat protectant spray first.

Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water. Water helps keep your scalp and hair hydrated from the inside out, reducing dryness and breakage. Incorporate hydrating hair products into your routine, such as deep conditioning masks.

Eat a healthy diet: Consume a balanced diet, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean protein provides your hair with the nutrients it needs. Incorporate foods rich in vitamins and minerals, foods like leafy greens, eggs, nuts, and fish in your diet.

Consider scalp massage: Regularly massage your scalp to increase blood flow and nourish hair follicles.

Try DIY hair masks: Use natural ingredients like eggs, honey, and olive oil to create homemade hair masks.

Avoid tight hairstyles: Tight hairstyles can put extra stress on hair follicles, potentially leading to breakage and hair loss.

Trim split ends regularly: Trim your hair regularly to prevent split ends and breakage.

Stress management: High levels of stress can also contribute to hair loss, so try to manage stress through relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation.

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