Seasonal Shedding or Something Else?

When Hair Loss Feels Personal — And Unclear

Noticing more hair in your brush, on your pillow, or trailing behind you than usual? You’re not alone—and you’re not overreacting.

Hair shedding is universal, but it doesn’t always feel normal when it’s happening to you. It can feel emotional, even scary—especially when you’re unsure what’s causing it.

At Kindred, we believe that clarity is calming. This guide will help you:
✔️ Understand the hair growth cycle and seasonal shedding
✔️ Recognize when it might be something more
✔️ Learn supportive habits for a healthier scalp and hair

You don’t have to ignore it, downplay it, or figure it out alone. This is where real understanding begins.

What Is Seasonal Shedding — And Why Does It Happen?

Have you noticed more strands than usual lately? This might be part of your body’s natural hair growth rhythm.

The Hair Growth Cycle:
✔️ Anagen (Growth Phase) – Active growth; 85–90% of your hair is here
✔️ Catagen (Transition Phase) – A short resting preparation phase
✔️ Telogen (Resting + Shedding Phase) – Old hair releases to make way for new growth

It’s normal to shed 50–100 strands per day. Sometimes more follicles shift into the telogen phase due to stress, illness—or even seasonal changes.

Why Does Shedding Happen More in Fall or Spring?

Changes in temperature, light, and humidity can subtly shift your hair’s cycle.

Shedding often increases:
→ In fall, after summer sun exposure
→ In spring, when daylight and hormone patterns begin to change

This is your body’s natural “reset.” It’s normal—and even healthy.

✅ Pro Tip: Track your shedding for 2–4 weeks. Patterns are more telling than daily fluctuations.

When It Might Not Be Seasonal

While shedding is often harmless, watch for these signs that may need further evaluation:

🚩 Red Flags:
✔️ Sudden or patchy thinning
✔️ Bald spots with no visible regrowth
✔️ Hair falling out with the root bulb attached
✔️ Itchy, inflamed, or burning scalp

These may not be emergencies, but they are worth professional attention.

Common Root Causes Beyond the Seasons

✔️ Hormonal Shifts – Postpartum, perimenopause, thyroid imbalances
✔️ Nutrient Deficiencies – Low iron, Vitamin D, protein, or B vitamins
✔️ Stress or Illness – Grief, trauma, long COVID, sleep disruption
✔️ Hair Habits – Overprocessing, tight ponytails, or improper extension tension

✅ Pro Tip: Consult a trichologist, scalp-focused stylist, or dermatologist before self-diagnosing.

What You Can Control: Support for a Healthier Hair Cycle

Even if the trigger is beyond your control, daily habits can strengthen your hair and scalp:

🥦 Nourish from Within
✔️ Eat leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and colorful fruits
✔️ Prioritize protein and hydration
✔️ Ask your provider about iron, Vitamin D, and collagen

🧴 Care for Your Scalp
✔️ Use sulfate-free shampoo (we recommend Innersense)
✔️ Exfoliate once a week
✔️ Massage your scalp to improve circulation

🧘‍♀️ Manage Stress Holistically
✔️ Breathwork, nature walks, and quality sleep
✔️ Even five minutes of calm per day supports hair health

✅ Pro Tip: Create a weekly 5-minute scalp ritual—it benefits both your roots and your nervous system.

If You Wear Extensions, Here’s What to Know

Extensions can make shedding look more noticeable—simply because you see every strand more clearly.

The Good News:
✔️ A well-installed row distributes weight evenly and supports your scalp.
✔️ Shedding isn’t necessarily caused by extensions.

If you notice more shedding:
→ Book a quick scalp check-in appointment to review bead tension and weight distribution
→ Learn more about our scalp-safe extension services in Woodbridge if you’re exploring gentler installation methods

Small adjustments from your stylist can make a big difference in comfort and hair health.

Listen to Your Scalp. Trust Your Gut.

If something feels “off,” it’s worth exploring—not ignoring.

Whether your shedding is seasonal, stress-related, or uncertain, you don’t have to navigate it alone. At Kindred, we approach hair health with compassion, clarity, and support—never shame.

Because the best next step for your hair starts with understanding what it really needs.

📚 FAQ

Q: Is it normal to lose more hair in the fall?
A: Yes! Fall is a common time for seasonal shedding due to changes in daylight and temperature. It’s usually temporary.

Q: How much shedding is “too much”?
A: Shedding 50–100 strands daily is normal. If you notice sudden thinning or bald patches, it’s time to check in with a pro.

Q: Can stress cause hair loss months later?
A: Absolutely. Stress-related shedding often shows up 6–12 weeks after the trigger.

Q: Do extensions cause more hair loss?
A: They shouldn’t. When installed biomechanically, extensions support your natural hair and don’t increase shedding.

Q: Should I talk to my stylist or a doctor?
A: Start with your stylist for a tension and scalp check. If shedding persists, a dermatologist or trichologist can help dig deeper.