Hair loss is a natural part of the hair's life cycle, with a normal person losing between 50 and 150 hairs daily. However, some people may become concerned when hair loss exceeds this natural limit or becomes more noticeable, leading to thinning or a receding hairline, for example.
So, how can you tell the difference between natural and abnormal hair loss? What are the causes and signs associated with each? This is what we will discuss in this article, in addition to determining when hair loss is serious.
The Difference Between Natural and Abnormal Hair Loss
To understand the difference between natural and abnormal hair loss, we need to understand the hair cycle. Hair constantly renews itself through a growth cycle that includes three phases:
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Anagen Phase (Growth): Lasts from two to eight years, during which the hair actively grows.
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Catagen Phase (Regression): Lasts for two to three weeks, where hair growth stops and the follicle begins to shrink.
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Telogen Phase (Rest): Lasts from two to four months, where the hair rests before it falls out and a new hair begins to grow.
Under normal conditions, most hair is in the anagen phase, and shedding occurs during the telogen phase. However, when this cycle is disturbed, the rate of shedding may increase, which indicates abnormal hair loss.
What is the Normal Daily Rate of Hair Loss?
It is very normal to lose some hair every day as part of the body's hair growth and renewal cycle. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, the normal daily rate of hair loss ranges from 50 to 100 hairs per day. This is because hair goes through the natural stages of growth, rest, and shedding that we mentioned earlier.
In some cases, you may notice an increase in shed hair during washing or brushing, which may be due to excessive styling or the use of harsh chemical products. However, if the change in the amount of hair shed is sudden and significant, it is best to consult a specialist to ensure there isn't an underlying, unnatural cause for the hair loss.
Causes of Abnormal Hair Loss
To learn more about the difference between natural and abnormal hair loss, there are multiple factors that can lead to abnormal hair loss, including:
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Physical or Emotional Stress: Severe stress can push a large number of hair follicles into the resting phase prematurely, causing increased hair loss.
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Hormonal Changes: Such as those that occur during pregnancy, childbirth, or menopause, which can affect the hair growth cycle.
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Nutritional Deficiencies: A lack of certain vitamins and minerals, such as iron and protein, can weaken hair and increase shedding.
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Diseases and Medical Conditions: Some conditions like thyroid disorders or autoimmune diseases can cause hair loss.
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Medications and Treatments: Some medications, including chemotherapy, can lead to hair loss as a side effect.
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Scalp Diseases: Such as bacterial or viral infections or scalp inflammation.
Read more about What are the causes of hair loss?
When is Hair Loss Serious?
Hair loss becomes serious when:
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You notice a sudden increase in the amount of hair being shed: If you notice large clumps of hair falling out when brushing or washing.
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The appearance of bald spots or noticeable thinning in certain areas: Such as the crown or sides.
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Shedding continues for a long period without improvement: Even after avoiding potential causative factors.
Signs That Indicate the Difference Between Natural and Abnormal Hair Loss
In addition to the above, signs that may indicate abnormal hair loss include:
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Increased hair shedding during brushing or showering.
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Appearance of weak or brittle hair.
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A receding hairline or general thinning of the scalp.
Key Ways to Reduce Natural and Abnormal Hair Loss
To help reduce hair loss and promote healthy hair:
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Follow a balanced diet: Rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals essential for hair growth.
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Avoid stress and tension.
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Avoid tight hairstyles and excessive heat: Which can weaken hair and lead to breakage.
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Use suitable hair care products: That are compatible with your hair type and avoid harsh chemicals.
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Consult a specialist: To determine the causes and appropriate treatment.
What are Hair Loss Tests?
Good diagnosis and tests help determine the difference between natural and abnormal hair loss. To diagnose the cause of hair loss, a doctor may request some tests, such as:
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Comprehensive blood test: To evaluate levels of iron, vitamin D, and hormones.
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Thyroid tests: To check for any disorders that may affect hair growth.
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Scalp examination: To determine the presence of any infections or skin conditions.
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Hair pull test: To evaluate the amount and strength of hair being shed.
Hair Loss After Hair Transplantation
It is normal for patients to notice hair loss after a hair transplant procedure, and this shedding is known as "shock loss." This shedding usually occurs within two to four weeks after surgery.
Read more about Shedding of Hair Follicles After Transplantation
Why Does Hair Loss Happen After a Transplant?
During the transplant procedure, hair follicles are subjected to stress that causes them to enter the resting (Telogen) phase, which results in the transplanted hair shedding. This shedding is a natural response of the body and is part of the healing process.
Read more about Hair Falling Out After Transplantation
Can Shock Loss Be Reduced?
Although shock loss is a natural part of the recovery process, choosing an experienced surgeon and using advanced transplant techniques can help reduce this shedding.
At the end of our article on the difference between natural and abnormal hair loss, hair loss may be a natural part of the hair's life cycle, but it is important to pay attention to signs that may indicate a bigger problem. If you are considering a hair transplant, do not hesitate to contact Dr. Hossam Tahseen's clinics - the only center in Egypt accredited by the DHI Global Network, which has 75 branches worldwide. We use the Direct Hair Implantation (DHI) technique to ensure 100% natural and safe results with a survival rate of over 90% for the transplanted hair.