Seasonal Hair Shedding: Why Do We Lose Hair in the Fall?

Seasonal hair loss in the Fall is a phenomenon many observe, reflecting the intricate rhythms of life. Governed by both overt and covert patterns, these rhythms shape the ebb and flow of our existence. As the leaves turn golden and the air adopts a crispness, it's not just the trees that part with their foliage. We, too, undergo a similar seasonal shedding, a testament to nature's complex dance.

Before your imagination conjures up a horror scene with hair everywhere, let's delve deeper into the science of this phenomenon. It's intriguing, and I promise, not as ominous as it might seem at first glance.

The Baseline of Hair Loss

To understand the anomaly, we first need to grasp the norm. On any given day, a human sheds approximately 50 to 100 hairs. This is nature's way of making room for new growth, a cycle of renewal. But as autumn approaches, many observe a surge in this number. The question is, why?

The Sheffield Study: A Deep Dive

A study conducted in Sheffield, U.K., provides some insights. Over a span of 18 months, researchers meticulously observed hair growth parameters in 14 healthy Caucasian men. The findings were illuminating:

  • Peak Growth in March: The proportion of hair follicles in the growth phase, termed as anagen, reached its zenith in March.
  • Decline Post-Peak: Post-March, there was a steady decline in this proportion. This indicates that hairs which transitioned to the resting phase, or telogen, post this peak would naturally shed around autumn.

Hormonal Play: More Than Just Growth

Another dimension to this puzzle is the role of hormones. A separate study underscored the seasonal variations in hormones like estradiol and follicle-stimulating hormone in both genders. While the primary intent of this research was to guide the design of future studies, it inadvertently shed light on the intricate dance of hormones and hair growth:

  • Estradiol and Hair: Estradiol, a form of estrogen, has been linked to hair growth. Fluctuations in its levels can potentially influence the hair growth cycle.
  • Follicle-Stimulating Hormone: This hormone, pivotal in the reproductive system, also showcases seasonal variations. Its interplay with hair growth, though not fully understood, adds another layer to the narrative.

The Battle Born Grooming Co. Advantage

While the natural shedding process is inevitable, certain ingredients can help nourish the hair and potentially reduce excessive shedding. Battle Born Grooming Co.'s pomades are infused with ingredients that not only style your hair but also provide it with the nourishment it craves:

  • Jojoba Oil: Known to strengthen hair follicles and improve hair health.
  • Shea Butter: Provides essential fatty acids that can condition and soothe the scalp.
  • Meadowfoam Seed Oil: Helps moisturize and rejuvenate hair, making it look shinier and healthier.
  • Avocado Oil: Rich in vitamins and nutrients that can help promote hair growth and reduce breakage.

These ingredients, combined with the absence of harmful chemicals like parabens, sulfates, and petroleum, make Battle Born Grooming Co.'s products a top choice for those looking to maintain healthy hair throughout the seasons.

Should You Be Concerned?

Now, with all this talk of increased hair shedding, it's natural to feel a twinge of anxiety. But here's the silver lining:

  • Nature's Cycle: Seasonal hair shedding is nature's mechanism. It's akin to the shedding of old leaves to make way for new ones. In most cases, the hair grows back, continuing the cycle of renewal.
  • When to Seek Help: While seasonal shedding is natural, excessive hair loss isn't. If you observe bald patches, or if the shedding persists beyond autumn, it's prudent to consult a dermatologist.

Embracing the Change

As we navigate the tapestry of life, change is the only constant. The world around us transforms with the seasons, and so do we. Our bodies, in their profound wisdom, have evolved to resonate with nature's rhythms.

The next time you find a few extra strands on your comb during fall, take a moment to marvel at the wonder of nature. It's a gentle reminder to shed the old, to let go of the baggage, and to make space for the new.

In the grand scheme of things, seasonal hair shedding is but a minuscule blip. Yet, it serves as a poignant reminder of the intricate design of life, of the delicate balance that governs our existence. It's these nuances, these subtle shifts, that render our journey so beautifully unpredictable.

So, as the leaves turn amber and the days grow shorter, let's embrace the change, both outside and within. After all, it's these transitions, these moments of letting go and starting afresh, that weave the rich tapestry of our lives.

Sources: 

Seasonal changes in human hair growth

Seasonal variation of estradiol, follicle stimulating hormone, and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate in women and men

Author Image

Michael Boyd

Michael, co-owner of Battle Born, has a deep affection for the season of Fall and is devoted to crafting natural hair pomades for those eager to make a stylish statement. Fueled by his passion for life, beaches, and all things hair, he has traveled extensively, incorporating mindfulness and meditation into his daily routine. In addition to spearheading Battle Born, he is an avid traveler, an animal lover, and an explorer of nature's marvels.

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