Hair shedding is a natural part of the hair growth cycle. While it can be concerning to see strands in the shower or on your pillow, some daily hair loss is completely normal. However, knowing what’s within a healthy range and when shedding might signal something more can help you take control of your hair health early on.
In this article, we’ll break down the difference between normal hair shedding and excessive hair loss, how to monitor changes, and what steps you can take to support stronger, healthier hair.
What Is Normal Hair Shedding?
Your hair is constantly cycling through phases of growth and renewal. This natural process involves three main stages:
The anagen phase is the active growth period, lasting between two to seven years depending on genetics. After that, hair enters the catagen phase, a brief transitional stage that lasts a few weeks. Finally, the hair enters the telogen phase, a resting period that typically lasts two to three months before the strand is naturally shed and replaced by a new one.
Because different follicles are in different stages at any given time, it’s completely normal to shed some hair each day as part of this cycle.
How Much Hair Loss Is Normal?
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, losing 50 to 100 hairs per day is considered normal. This amount may vary depending on hair type, routine, and other factors, but generally falls within the expected range of daily shedding.
Factors That Influence Daily Shedding
Several elements can influence how much hair you lose in a day. Individuals with thick or long hair may notice more strands falling, even if their shedding is still normal. How often you brush, wash, or style your hair can also affect how much shedding you observe. Seasonal shifts, particularly in fall or spring, may lead to temporary increases in shedding, which typically resolve on their own.
How to Tell If Your Shedding Is Normal
If you're unsure whether the amount of hair you're losing is typical, there are a few ways to assess it.
The Pull Test
One method is the pull test. Gently tug on a small section of clean, dry hair, about 50 to 60 strands. If only two to five hairs come out, this falls within the normal range. If you see more than ten hairs, it may indicate excessive shedding and could be worth monitoring more closely.
Monitor Daily Shedding
Paying attention to where and how much hair you’re losing during everyday routines can also be helpful. Look at how much hair collects on your brush, in the shower drain, or on your pillow. A steady increase over time may suggest that something is disrupting your hair cycle.
Look for Patterns
Normal shedding tends to be evenly distributed across the scalp. If you’re noticing clumps of hair, more shedding in a particular area, or visible thinning at the crown or part line, it could be a sign of something more than routine hair turnover.
When to Be Concerned About Hair Loss
While some shedding is expected, certain signs may point to abnormal or excessive hair loss that should be addressed.
Excessive Shedding
Losing significantly more than 100 hairs per day or seeing large clumps of hair in your brush or shower may be a sign that your hair is shedding beyond the normal rate.
Bald Patches
If you notice patches of scalp where little or no hair is growing, it could be a condition like alopecia areata or a related concern. Early evaluation by a specialist is key in these cases.
Rapid Thinning
A noticeable decrease in overall density across the scalp, especially over a short period of time, may suggest androgenetic alopecia or another form of progressive hair loss.
Changes in Hair Texture
Hair that becomes finer, coarser, or more brittle over time can be a sign of underlying issues, such as hormonal shifts or nutrient deficiencies.
Underlying Medical Conditions
Hair loss can be triggered by a range of internal imbalances, including pregnancy, menopause, thyroid disorders, iron deficiency, and chronic stress. When shedding is combined with other symptoms, it's a good idea to check in with a healthcare provider.
Normal Shedding vs. Excessive Hair Loss
|
Aspect |
Normal Shedding |
Excessive Hair Loss |
|
Daily Hair Loss |
50–100 hairs per day |
More than 100 hairs per day |
|
Pattern |
Even shedding across the scalp |
Clumps, bald patches, or localized thinning |
|
Hair Texture |
No major change |
Becomes finer, coarser, or brittle |
|
Scalp Appearance |
No visible thinning or bald spots |
Thinning areas or patchy hair loss |
|
Common Causes |
Normal hair cycle |
Stress, hormonal imbalances, medical conditions |
|
When to Seek Help |
Not usually necessary |
When loss increases or becomes visibly concerning |
What Causes Excessive Hair Loss?
When hair loss becomes noticeable, it’s important to consider a range of potential causes. These may include:
Genetics
Hereditary hair loss, or androgenetic alopecia, is one of the most common causes of long-term thinning. It tends to follow a predictable pattern and may require early intervention to slow progression.
Hormonal Changes
Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, menopause, or due to thyroid disorders can disrupt the growth cycle and lead to temporary or ongoing shedding.
Medical Conditions
Autoimmune diseases like alopecia areata, scalp infections, or chronic illnesses can interrupt follicle function and lead to hair loss.
Nutritional Deficiencies
Lack of essential nutrients such as iron, zinc, or vitamin D can weaken hair and slow growth. In many cases, restoring balance through diet or supplements improves hair strength.
Stress
Physical or emotional stress can trigger telogen effluvium, a condition that causes more hairs than usual to enter the shedding phase at once.
Hair Care Practices
Over-styling, tight hairstyles, and the use of harsh chemicals or excessive heat can damage follicles and contribute to shedding or breakage over time.
When to See a Doctor
If you’re concerned about the amount of hair you’re losing, or if you notice sudden, patchy, or unexplained thinning, it’s best to seek medical advice. A dermatologist or trichologist can evaluate your scalp, perform tests to identify underlying causes, and recommend targeted treatments.
BosleyMD offers expert support in diagnosing and treating various forms of hair loss. Whether the issue is temporary or part of a genetic pattern, early action can make a big difference in preserving your hair and restoring growth.
Tips to Maintain Healthy Hair and Reduce Shedding
Daily habits play an important role in protecting your hair and minimizing unnecessary loss. To support healthy growth:
Practice gentle hair care by using mild shampoos and avoiding excessive heat or harsh treatments. Prioritize a balanced diet filled with proteins, vitamins, and minerals to nourish follicles from within. Manage stress through movement, mindfulness, or therapy to keep cortisol levels in check.
Regular scalp massages can improve circulation, helping deliver nutrients to your hair roots. And finally, schedule routine checkups to monitor nutrient levels and address any early imbalances that may affect your hair health.
Key Takeaways
Some hair shedding is completely normal and a necessary part of the hair renewal process. But when the amount of hair you're losing increases noticeably or becomes patchy or persistent, it may be time to take a closer look.
Understanding the difference between shedding and true hair loss helps you act early and choose the right care. If you’re unsure, don’t wait. BosleyMD provides trusted solutions and professional support to help you maintain strong, healthy hair, no matter where you are in your journey.