Why Your Hair Is Falling Out — and 6 Ways to Stop It
1. Why Is My Hair Falling Out More Than Usual?
Let’s be honest. The first time I saw extra hair in the shower drain, I panicked. It felt personal, like my hair was quietly quitting on me.
Hair shedding happens for many reasons. Weather changes, stress, diet shifts, or low vitamins can all play a role. Even changing your routine can confuse your scalp for a while.
Together, let’s look at what’s normal, what’s not, and what you can do when your hair starts falling more than usual.
2. What Is Natural Hair Shedding?
There’s a saying that we grow a whole new head of hair every seven years. It sounds wild, but it’s partly true.
Your hair is always growing, resting, and falling out. This cycle keeps repeating. Think of it like seasons—spring, summer, fall, and winter for your scalp.
There are four main stages in this cycle. Each one has a job to do.
3. Anagen: The Growth Phase
This is the long phase. Your hair is busy growing here.
It can last between three and five years. Some people grow hair for up to seven years. About 90% of your hair is in this phase most of the time.
This is when your hair gets longer and stronger.
4. Catagen: The Transition Phase
This phase is short and quiet. It lasts about ten days.
Only around 5% of your hair is here at once. Growth stops, and the hair begins to pull away from the follicle.
It’s like your hair packing its bags before resting.
5. Telogen: The Resting Phase
This stage lasts about three months.
Around 15% of your hair is resting during this time. New hair starts growing underneath while the old hair just waits.
It’s calm before the final step.
6. Exogen: The Shedding Phase
This is when hair falls out.
Washing, brushing, and styling can make shedding more visible. That’s why it feels worse on shower days.
Old hair makes space for new strands. It’s not betrayal—it’s renewal.
