Is It Hair Loss or Hair Shedding? (And What Can You Do?)

It is no secret that shedding hair from time to time is common and a normal part of the hair life cycle. We all know that losing some hair is normal, but how much is too much? How do you know when you are experiencing more than just normal hair shedding? Let's take a look at the difference between hair shedding, hair loss, and what you can do about it. The quicker you are able to identify hair loss, the more options our experienced stylists at New Look Institute can offer to help you prevent further hair loss and restore your full head of hair.

What is the Difference Between Hair Shedding and Hair Loss?

Hair loss and hair shedding may seem very similar on the surface, but there is one very distinct difference. Hair shedding is when strands of hair that have come to the end of their life cycle fall-out of the hair follicle in order to make room for new growth in its place. On the other hand, hair loss is when strands of hair fall out and the hair follicles are unable to grow new hair in its place.

Causes of Hair Shedding

You may be surprised to learn that the average person has about 100,000 hair follicles. It is perfectly normal to lose anywhere from 50 to 100 strands of hair per day and never notice a difference in your appearance. There are certain life events that cause temporary excessive hair shedding due to the body being under high levels of stress.These include:

• Losing a large amount of weight quickly

• Pregnancy/birth

• Hormonal changes

• High fever

• Having surgery

• Suddenly stopping birth control pills

• Going through a divorce

• The loss of a loved one

• Going through a career change

There are many different reasons that a person may experience higher than normal rates of hair shedding. Each person is different. What causes high levels of stress in one person may not in the next. Once that person gets through the high-stress event, the shedding of excess hair should slow down and return to normal.

Causes of Hair Loss

Hair loss is different, in that something causes new hair to not be able to grow back after hair strands fall out. Certain types of hair loss are temporary with the hair follicle regaining function after the event is over. However, other types of hair loss permanent.

Causes of hair loss include:

• Hereditary - Including both male and female pattern baldness

• Hormonal changes - Including menopause, having a baby, thyroid issues

• Alopecia

• Scalp infections

• Medications

• Radiation

• Chemotherapy

• Hair treatments

How Do You Know If It's Hair Shedding or Hair Loss?

As long as you do not notice thin or balding spots on your scalp, chances are good that you are experiencing normal hair shedding. Apart from the aggravation of having to pick strands of hair out of the sink or shower, there isn't anything to worry about. However, if you begin to notice thinning hair, strands falling out in clumps or balding spots, you may be experiencing either hair loss or excessive shedding. Our experienced specialists at New Look Institute can determine whether it is hair shedding or hair loss and if it is temporary or permanent.

What Can You Do If It's More Than Normal Shedding?

Whether you are experiencing thinning or loss of hair from excessive shedding or permanent hair loss, you want to restore your head of hair as quickly as possible. We offer a variety of options for both men and women including topical regrowth and thickening products, laser hair therapy, hair loss treatments, and hair restoration systems. The first thing you should do is schedule a free consultation with one of our stylists. We will conduct a thorough hair and scalp evaluation and present you with viable hair loss prevention and restoration options based on your unique situation. Schedule your free hair analysis today!