Why You’re Shedding Hair in Summer and How to Stop It?

As summer approaches, many individuals notice an increase in hair shedding, leading to concern and confusion. This phenomenon, known as summer hair loss, is a common occurrence that affects people of all ages and genders. While it’s natural to shed some hair throughout the year, the warmer months can exacerbate this process, causing more noticeable hair fall and thinning.

Understanding why we’re shedding hair in summer and how to stop it is crucial for maintaining healthy locks. This article explores the seasonal nature of hair loss, hormonal influences, and environmental factors contributing to summer shedding. It also delves into nutritional aspects, physical stressors, and psychological factors that play a role in hair health during the warmer months. Additionally, we’ll discuss preventive measures and professional treatments to help manage excessive hair shedding, providing readers with practical solutions to keep their hair looking full and vibrant all summer long.

The Seasonal Nature of Hair Loss

Understanding hair growth cycles

Hair growth occurs in three distinct phases: anagen (growth), catagen (transition), and telogen (resting). Typically, 90% of our hair is in the anagen phase at any given time, with the remaining 10% in the telogen phase, where shedding occurs. It’s normal to shed 50-100 hairs daily as part of this natural cycle.

The hair growth cycle often coincides with the different seasons of the year. Studies have shown that hair shedding peaks in late summer and early fall, particularly during August and September. This phenomenon has been observed in multiple research studies conducted from 1991 to 2014.

Why summer affects hair shedding

Several factors contribute to increased hair shedding during summer:

1. UV exposure: Prolonged sun exposure can degrade hair proteins, weakening the hair shaft and leading to dryness, brittleness, and breakage.
2. Heat and humidity: High temperatures and humidity can alter the scalp’s condition and increase hair damage, potentially leading to more hair loss.
3. Environmental stress: Changes in air temperature and sunlight exposure may play a role in triggering hair loss.
4. Evolutionary adaptation: Our innate ability to postpone shedding until the end of summer could potentially help defend and safeguard us from excessive ultraviolet exposure during this season.
5. Hormonal fluctuations: Changes in hormones such as testosterone, melatonin, thyroid hormones, estrogen, and prolactin might influence seasonal hair shedding.

It’s important to note that while people notice more hair loss in the summer and fall seasons, the precise cause of seasonal hair loss is still unclear. Research suggests that seasonal shedding affects more women compared to men.

Debunking hair loss myths

Several misconceptions surround hair loss, especially during summer. Here are some common myths debunked:

1. Wearing hats causes baldness: There’s no solid scientific proof that wearing hats causes hair loss. In fact, hats can protect both the hair and scalp from harmful UV rays.
2. Daily hair washing leads to hair loss: Washing your hair frequently doesn’t cause hair loss. It may actually be beneficial for maintaining a healthy scalp environment.
3. Sunshine causes hair to fall out: While prolonged UV exposure can damage hair, normal sun exposure doesn’t directly cause hair loss.
4. Stress is the primary cause of hair loss: While stress can contribute to temporary hair loss, it doesn’t affect male pattern baldness, which is a permanent medical condition.

Understanding the seasonal nature of hair loss can help alleviate concerns about temporary increases in shedding. It’s crucial to maintain a healthy scalp and hair care routine throughout the year, paying extra attention during summer months when environmental factors may have a greater impact on hair health.

Hormonal Influences on Summer Hair Shedding

The human body undergoes various hormonal changes throughout the year, and these fluctuations can have a significant impact on hair growth and shedding patterns. During the summer months, several hormonal factors contribute to increased hair shedding. Understanding these influences can help individuals better manage their hair health during this season.

Impact of melatonin levels

Melatonin, often associated with sleep regulation, also plays a crucial role in hair growth cycles. This hormone has strong anti-oxidant properties that can counteract oxidative stress associated with general hair loss and androgenetic alopecia.

Human hair follicles have been shown to synthesize melatonin and express melatonin receptors. Research has demonstrated that melatonin has an influence on hair growth cycles. In fact, studies have found that melatonin at a concentration of 30 μM results in a significantly faster rate of hair follicle growth in human anagen hair follicles cultivated in vitro.

During summer, significant sunlight exposure may cause changes in melatonin levels. These alterations can trigger hair follicles to transition to a resting phase, potentially leading to temporary hair loss. The skin and hair follicles have a melatoninergic enzyme system that expresses the specific enzymes necessary for melatonin biosynthesis. This system acts as an active anti-oxidative defense mechanism, protecting against damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) rays.

Testosterone fluctuations

While testosterone levels are often associated with male pattern baldness, their direct impact on summer hair shedding is less clear. 

Research has shown that it’s not necessarily the amount of testosterone or its byproduct, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), that causes baldness, but rather the sensitivity of hair follicles to these hormones.

A 2017 population study in Northeastern Germany found no direct link between male sex hormone levels and male hair loss. This suggests that developing bald spots from male pattern baldness might have more to do with genetic sensitivity to male hormones than the hormone levels themselves.

It’s important to note that DHT, a byproduct of testosterone, can attach to receptors in the scalp and gradually shrink hair follicles until they can no longer produce hair – a process known as follicular miniaturization. However, this process is more related to genetic predisposition than seasonal changes.

Thyroid hormone changes

Thyroid conditions can significantly impact hair growth and shedding patterns. Both hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) can cause dry, brittle hair or thinning hair on the scalp and body.

During summer, changes in thyroid hormone levels can exacerbate hair loss. Thyroid dysfunction disrupts the normal hair growth cycle, potentially causing more hair follicles to enter the telogen (resting) phase prematurely. This condition, known as telogen effluvium, results in excessive shedding and noticeable thinning of the hair.

It’s crucial to note that hair loss caused by thyroid conditions is typically temporary. With proper treatment and management of thyroid hormone levels, hair growth often resumes. However, it may take several months for noticeable improvements due to the long life cycle of hair.

Environmental Factors Contributing to Hair Loss

UV Radiation Effects

The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation has a significant impact on hair health. UV radiation consists of three types: UVA (320-400 nm), UVB (290-320 nm), and UVC (100-290 nm). While the ozone layer absorbs most UVC and UVB rays, UVA radiation reaches the Earth’s surface and can affect hair structure.

Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can cause various forms of hair damage:

1. Loss of tensile strength and shine
2. Embrittlement and split ends
3. Increased hair friction
4. Decreased hydration and increased permeability

UV radiation alters the keratin structure of hair, leading to sulfur bridge disturbances, lipid decomposition, and melanin reduction. These changes can devastate hair strands from the core, resulting in mechanical property modifications and color alterations.

For chemically treated hair, such as dyed or straightened hair, the degradation process occurs more severely. UV radiation can also damage hair follicles, potentially causing:

• Hair follicle dystrophy
• Inhibition of keratinocyte proliferation
• Premature catagen development
• Shortened anagen phase
• Elimination of perifollicular mast cells

These effects can lead to excessive shedding and impeded hair growth. It’s important to note that lighter, finer hair is more susceptible to UV damage due to its lack of protective pigment and thickness.

Heat and Humidity Impact

Summer weather conditions, particularly heat and humidity, can have a significant effect on hair health and appearance. Humidity causes hair problems like frizz and flatness by creating weak hydrogen bonds between moisture in the air and hair strands.

The impact of humidity varies depending on hair type:

1. High porosity and curly hair:
   • Becomes frizzy and unruly
   • Prone to dryness due to rapid moisture absorption and loss
   • Susceptible to hygral fatigue (repeated swelling and shrinking of hair shafts)
2. Low porosity and fine hair:
   • Becomes weighed down and flat
   • Moisture remains on the outside of the hair strand

While humidity doesn’t directly cause hair loss, it can exacerbate existing hair issues and contribute to scalp irritation. The combination of heat and humidity can lead to increased sweating and excess oil production, potentially worsening conditions like dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis.

Air Conditioning and Dry Scalp

Air conditioning systems, while providing relief from heat, can have unintended consequences for hair and scalp health. The primary function of an air conditioner is to remove humidity from the air, which can lead to a dry environment.

Effects of air conditioning on hair and scalp:

1. Dehydrates the skin, making the scalp dryer
2. Can lead to a dry throat, indicating overall moisture reduction
3. May contribute to increased hair dryness and brittleness

To combat the drying effects of air conditioning, consider the following:

• Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air
• Keep plants in air-conditioned rooms to increase air humidity through evapotranspiration
• Maintain proper cleaning of air conditioning units to prevent bacterial and fungal growth

By understanding these environmental factors and taking appropriate measures, individuals can better protect their hair and scalp from summer-related damage and maintain healthier locks throughout the warmer months.

Nutritional Aspects of Summer Hair Health

Importance of Hydration

Proper hydration plays a crucial role in maintaining hair health, especially during the summer months. The structural integrity and physiological processes of hair and scalp rely heavily on adequate water intake. Hair, primarily composed of the protein keratin, requires sufficient hydration to maintain its elasticity and strength. Similarly, the scalp needs moisture to remain healthy and support optimal hair growth.

A well-hydrated scalp maintains elasticity and effectively retains essential oils. Conversely, dehydration can lead to a dry, flaky, and itchy scalp, which is often exacerbated by summer heat. Hair follicles, the tiny structures from which hair grows, depend on adequate water intake to function optimally. Insufficient hydration can result in diminished follicle activity, leading to slower hair growth and finer hair strands.

Proper hydration also enhances hair elasticity, reducing susceptibility to breakage. This is particularly important during summer when physical activities are more prevalent, potentially causing increased stress on hair strands. Additionally, adequate hydration helps regulate sebum production, preventing both overproduction (which leads to oily hair) and underproduction (which can cause dryness and hair breakage).

Essential Nutrients for Hair

Several key nutrients play vital roles in maintaining healthy hair during summer:

1. Protein: As hair is primarily made of protein, ensuring adequate protein intake is crucial for strong and healthy hair. Insufficient protein can lead to dry, brittle, and weak hair. Eggs, lean meats, and legumes are excellent sources of protein.
2. Iron: This mineral is essential for hair health, as it supports the nutrient-rich blood supply to hair follicles. Iron deficiency can disrupt this supply, affecting the hair growth cycle and potentially leading to hair loss. Red meat, spinach, and lentils are good sources of iron.
3. Vitamins A, C, and E: These vitamins act as antioxidants, protecting hair follicles from damage. Vitamin A is necessary for sebum production, while vitamin C aids in collagen synthesis and iron absorption. Vitamin E may help improve blood flow to the scalp. Foods rich in these vitamins include sweet potatoes, citrus fruits, and nuts.
4. Biotin: This B-vitamin is essential for the production of keratin, a key hair protein. Biotin deficiency can lead to brittle hair and hair loss. Eggs, nuts, and whole grains are good sources of biotin.
5. Zinc and Selenium: These minerals help protect the scalp and support hair growth. A lack of zinc can lead to a dry, flaky scalp and hair loss. Oysters, beans, and seeds are rich in these minerals.
6. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These essential fats help keep the scalp and hair hydrated. Fatty fish like salmon, as well as flaxseeds and chia seeds, are excellent sources of omega-3s.

Summer Diet Modifications

To support hair health during summer, consider the following dietary modifications:

1. Increase hydration: Consume water-rich foods like cucumbers, watermelon, and berries to supplement fluid intake.
2. Incorporate cooling foods: Include foods like yogurt, cottage cheese, and mint in your diet to help regulate body temperature and support hair health.
3. Boost antioxidant intake: Consume a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables to protect hair from oxidative stress caused by increased sun exposure.
4. Include protein-rich snacks: Opt for nuts, seeds, and Greek yogurt as summer snacks to ensure adequate protein intake for hair strength.
5. Focus on iron-rich foods: Combine plant-based iron sources with vitamin C-rich foods to enhance iron absorption, supporting healthy hair growth.

By making these nutritional adjustments and ensuring proper hydration, individuals can support their hair health throughout the summer months, promoting strength, growth, and overall hair vitality.

Physical Stressors on Hair During Summer

Summer presents unique challenges for hair health, subjecting it to various physical stressors that can lead to damage and increased shedding. Understanding these stressors and their effects is crucial for maintaining healthy hair during the warmer months.

Swimming Pool Chemicals

One of the most significant physical stressors on hair during summer is exposure to swimming pool chemicals, particularly chlorine. Chlorine is widely used in pools for its sanitizing properties, effectively killing microbes, bacteria, and viruses. However, it has an adverse effect on hair health:

1. Stripping of natural oils: Chlorine removes the hair’s natural oils, leaving it dry, rough, and damaged. This loss of natural oils compromises the hair’s smoothness and overall health.
2. Chemical reactions: Chlorine can cause chemical reactions in the hair, potentially altering its natural color and weakening the hair strands, leading to split ends.
3. Green tint: The greenish hue sometimes observed in swimmers’ hair is not directly caused by chlorine but by copper that has been oxidized by chlorine. This oxidized copper is absorbed by the hair, resulting in a subtle green tint.

To protect hair from chlorine damage:

• Wet hair with clean water before swimming to reduce chlorine absorption.
• Apply a leave-in conditioner or hair oil before entering the pool.
• Wear a swim cap for added protection.
• Rinse hair thoroughly with fresh water immediately after swimming.
• Use a clarifying shampoo or swimmer’s shampoo to remove chlorine residue.

Increased Washing Frequency

The combination of heat, humidity, and increased physical activity during summer often leads to more frequent hair washing. While maintaining cleanliness is important, excessive washing can have detrimental effects:

1. Depletion of natural oils: Frequent washing can strip the scalp and hair of their natural oils, leading to dryness and potential irritation.
2. Overproduction of sebum: Paradoxically, frequent washing can stimulate the scalp to produce more oil, creating a cycle of oily hair and increased washing.
3. Scalp imbalance: Overwashing can disrupt the natural balance of the scalp’s microbiome, potentially leading to issues like dandruff or scalp irritation.

To maintain hair health while managing summer cleanliness:

• Limit hair washing to every three to four days, unless engaging in activities that cause excessive sweating.
• Use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo to cleanse without over-stripping.
• Focus on cleansing the scalp rather than the length of the hair.
• Consider using dry shampoo between washes to absorb excess oil and extend time between washes.

Heat Styling Damage

The desire for styled hair often persists during summer, but heat styling can exacerbate damage caused by other summer stressors:

1. Moisture loss: Heat styling tools like blow dryers, flat irons, and curling irons can reach temperatures over 400°F, causing rapid moisture loss in the hair shaft.
2. Protein degradation: Excessive heat can break down the hair’s protein structure, leading to weakened strands and increased breakage.
3. Cuticle damage: High temperatures can lift and damage the hair’s protective cuticle layer, resulting in frizz, dullness, and increased susceptibility to environmental damage.

To minimize heat styling damage:

• Reduce the frequency of heat styling during summer months.
• Always apply a heat protectant product before using any heat styling tools.
• Use the lowest effective temperature setting on styling tools.
• Allow hair to air dry partially before using a blow dryer.
• Consider heat-free styling methods like braids or twists for texture and waves.

By understanding these physical stressors and taking appropriate preventive measures, individuals can maintain healthier hair throughout the summer season, reducing damage and promoting overall hair health.

Psychological Factors and Hair Shedding

Stress and Hair Loss Connection

Stress has a significant impact on hair health, ranking as the second most common cause of hair loss after genetics. The relationship between stress and hair loss is complex, often occurring through a process called telogen effluvium. This condition develops when physical or emotional stress pushes hair follicles into a resting phase, interrupting the normal growth cycle. As a result, hair falls out without new growth replacing it.

The effects of stress on hair are not immediate. Typically, stress-induced hair loss manifests three to six months after a traumatic event or during periods of ongoing stress. This delay often prevents individuals from connecting their hair loss to stress-related factors. Stress can also affect the production of hormones and nutrients necessary for healthy hair growth, leading to changes in hair texture, such as increased dryness, brittleness, or frizziness.

It’s important to note that stress-related hair loss is usually temporary and responsive to lifestyle changes. To combat this issue, individuals should focus on:

1. Reducing stress levels through extended relaxation rituals
2. Maintaining a healthy scalp to encourage hair growth
3. Adopting stress management techniques like meditation or exercise

Seasonal Affective Disorder

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a form of depression that occurs in a seasonal pattern, typically during fall and winter months. This condition can have indirect effects on hair health through its impact on overall well-being and stress levels. SAD affects approximately half a million people in the United States, with an additional 10% to 20% experiencing a milder form of winter blues.

The exact cause of SAD is unknown, but theories suggest it’s related to reduced sunlight exposure during winter months. This reduction in sunlight can:

1. Disrupt the body’s circadian rhythm
2. Lower serotonin levels, affecting mood
3. Increase melatonin production, impacting sleep patterns

Symptoms of SAD include feelings of depression, loss of interest in activities, low energy, and changes in appetite or weight. These symptoms can contribute to increased stress levels, potentially exacerbating hair shedding issues.

Body Image Concerns

Hair loss can have significant emotional consequences, often affecting an individual’s self-esteem and confidence. The anxiety associated with hair loss can create a cyclical pattern where worrying exacerbates the problem. This negative self-perception can lead to:

1. Feelings of self-consciousness and embarrassment
2. Social withdrawal
3. Increased stress, potentially worsening hair loss

It’s crucial to recognize that negative feelings about one’s body can translate into negative feelings about oneself as a whole. This negativity can take a toll on mental and emotional health, potentially leading to harmful behaviors such as chronic dieting, isolation, or disordered eating patterns.

To address these concerns, individuals experiencing hair loss should:

1. Seek professional help if negative body image persists
2. Practice self-compassion and body neutrality
3. Focus on overall health rather than appearance alone

By addressing psychological factors and adopting a holistic approach to hair health, individuals can better manage stress-related hair shedding and improve their overall well-being.

Preventive Measures for Summer Hair Loss

Scalp Protection Techniques

To safeguard the scalp and hair from summer-related damage, individuals should consider several protective measures. Wearing a hat or headscarf serves as an effective barrier against harmful UV rays, which can cause significant damage to hair strands and lead to sunburn on the scalp. For those who prefer not to wear headgear, applying SPF directly to the scalp is crucial. This practice helps prevent sunburn and reduces the risk of skin cancer, as 2-18% of skin cancers may affect the scalp.

Regular scalp exfoliation is another essential technique. Using a specially designed scalp brush before washing can help remove dirt and buildup, ensuring a more thorough cleanse. This is particularly important during summer months when increased sweating and environmental factors contribute to scalp buildup.

Hair Care Product Adjustments

As the seasons change, so should hair care routines. Summer calls for specific product adjustments to combat heat, chlorine, salt, humidity, and UV rays. Individuals should consider swapping out their regular products for those designed to provide UV protection and increased hydration.

For those who frequently swim, it’s crucial to protect hair from chlorine and saltwater damage. Before swimming, wetting the hair with clean water and applying a leave-in conditioner can create a protective barrier. After swimming, thorough rinsing followed by the use of a clarifying shampoo helps remove chemical buildup.

For color-treated hair, which is particularly susceptible to fading in summer sun, using color-protective products and reducing shampoo frequency can help maintain vibrancy. Additionally, applying a leave-in conditioner before beach or pool days can provide an extra layer of protection against salt and chlorine.

Natural Remedies and Supplements

Several natural remedies and supplements can support hair health during summer months. 

Coconut oil, known for its nourishing properties, can be used as a pre-wash treatment to protect hair from dryness and damage. Aloe vera, both as a topical application and as a juice, can help strengthen hair, combat dandruff, and soothe the scalp.

Green tea, rich in antioxidants, can boost hair growth when used as a rinse. Other beneficial natural treatments include onion juice for stimulating hair follicles, and a mixture of lemon juice and amla powder for scalp health.

Nutritional supplements can also play a role in preventing summer hair loss. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil supplements, may help reduce inflammation and boost immunity, potentially benefiting hair health. Vitamins D and C, iron, and biotin are also important for maintaining healthy hair growth. However, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen, as excessive intake of certain vitamins and minerals can be harmful and may even lead to increased hair loss.

Professional Treatments for Excessive Shedding

For individuals experiencing excessive hair shedding, particularly during seasonal changes, professional treatments can offer effective solutions. These treatments range from scalp-focused therapies to medical interventions, providing options for various causes of hair loss.

Scalp Treatments

Maintaining a healthy scalp is crucial for reducing hair shedding. Professional scalp treatments can address underlying issues that contribute to hair loss:

1. Exfoliation: Products like Briogeo Scalp Revival Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo help remove dead skin cells and promote a healthy scalp environment.
2. UV Protection: Cult & King Tonik shields the scalp from harmful UV rays, which can damage hair follicles and lead to increased shedding.
3. Specialized Treatments: Oway offers a range of professional scalp treatments, including:
   • Soothing Remedy Spot Treatment
   • Zanthoxylum Soothing Gel
   • Herbs & Clay Scalp Detox Service

These treatments can help manage scalp conditions that may contribute to hair loss, such as dryness, oiliness, or sensitivity.

Hair Growth Therapies

Several hair growth therapies have shown promise in combating excessive shedding:

1. Minoxidil (Rogaine): This FDA-approved treatment has been clinically proven to boost hair growth when used consistently. It’s important to note that increased shedding may occur initially as part of the treatment process.
2. Densifying Remedies: Products like Oway’s Densifying Remedy can help improve hair thickness and reduce shedding.
3. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections: This treatment uses the patient’s own blood plasma to stimulate hair follicles and promote growth.
4. Low-Level Laser Therapy: This non-invasive treatment uses light energy to stimulate hair follicles and improve hair density.

Medical Interventions

In cases where excessive shedding is due to underlying medical conditions, professional medical interventions may be necessary:

1. Oral Medications: Depending on the cause of hair loss, doctors may prescribe:
   • Finasteride or dutasteride for male pattern baldness
   • Spironolactone for female pattern hair loss
   • Oral minoxidil as an alternative to topical application
2. Corticosteroid Treatments: For conditions like alopecia areata, corticosteroids may be injected or applied topically to reduce inflammation and promote hair growth.
3. Nutritional Supplementation: In cases of deficiency-related hair loss, a healthcare provider may recommend supplements such as biotin, iron, zinc, or vitamin D.
4. Hormone Therapy: For hair loss related to hormonal imbalances, such as thyroid disorders, appropriate hormone replacement therapy may be prescribed.

It’s important to consult with a dermatologist or trichologist to determine the most appropriate treatment plan. These professionals can conduct thorough examinations, including blood tests and scalp analyzes, to identify the underlying cause of excessive shedding and recommend the most effective interventions.

Conclusion

Summer hair shedding is a common concern that affects many individuals. Throughout this article, we’ve explored the various factors contributing to increased hair loss during warmer months, including hormonal changes, environmental stressors, and nutritional aspects. By understanding these influences, we can take proactive steps to maintain healthy hair and reduce excessive shedding. From protecting our scalp against UV radiation to adjusting our diet and hair care routines, there are numerous ways to support hair health during summer.

While seasonal hair loss can be distressing, it’s important to remember that it’s often temporary and manageable. By implementing the preventive measures and treatments discussed, most people can effectively address summer hair shedding. To wrap up, maintaining a holistic approach to hair care that considers both internal and external factors is key to keeping your locks looking their best year-round. Get a Free Hair Analysis and Quote: Our experts will assess your hair loss condition and provide you with a detailed plan tailored to your needs. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to restore your confidence with our professional hair restoration services here.

FAQs

What steps can I take to reduce hair shedding during the summer?

To minimize hair shedding and promote healthy hair growth in the summer, consider the following tips:

• Maintain a balanced diet rich in nutrients.
• Avoid tying your hair up too tightly.
• Pamper your hair with regular spa treatments.
• Consider taking a Vitamin D supplement.
• Focus on strengthening the roots of your hair.

Why does my hair shed more during the summer months?

It’s common to notice a slight increase in hair shedding during the summer due to factors like dehydration, increased UV exposure, and higher temperatures. These conditions can lead to more noticeable hair loss. However, if the hair loss is substantial, it might be caused by more than just seasonal changes.

What should I apply to my hair to prevent it from shedding?

Using a conditioner regularly can help keep your hair hydrated and healthy, which is crucial in preventing excessive shedding.

How long does seasonal hair shedding typically last?

Seasonal hair shedding usually occurs for about 2 to 3 months, predominantly in the fall. This pattern aligns with the natural hair growth cycle, where the shedding phase often happens during the autumn months.