Is It Normal to Lose Hair in the Fall/Winter?
The Short Answer: Yes, "Seasonal Shedding" is a scientifically documented phenomenon. Research suggests that human hair growth rates naturally slow down in late autumn and early winter due to reduced exposure to sunlight. This triggers a higher percentage of follicles to enter the Telogen (resting) phase, resulting in a noticeable increase in shedding during October, November, and December.
Why It Happens (The "Molt")
Just as mammals shed their summer coats, humans retain an evolutionary response to daylight changes. In summer, the sun's rays influence hormones (like melatonin and prolactin) that keep hair in the growth phase to protect the scalp. As daylight decreases in the Canadian fall, that protection lifts, and the hair sheds.
Defense Strategy: You can't change the weather, but you can strengthen the hair you have. Using a fortifying shampoo or Viviscal PRO during the winter months helps ensure that the new hair growing in is thick enough to replace what was lost.
Common Questions About Seasonal Loss
How long does seasonal shedding last?
Typically, the shed lasts about 4 to 6 weeks. If you notice heavy shedding persisting longer than 2 months, or if you see visible bald patches, it may be a sign of a different condition like Vitamin D deficiency, not just seasonal changes.
Do we shed in the spring too?
Some studies show a smaller, secondary peak in shedding during the spring, though the autumn shed is usually much more pronounced in Northern climates like Canada.
