How many hairs do you lose a day? You might be shocked at the answer…
How many hairs do you lose a day? Read on to find out...
If, like most women, you leave a trail of hair on all your clothes, in the shower and on your hairbrush, you might start questioning what a normal amount of shedding actually is. Even wondering “how many hairs do you lose a day?”
You can lose anywhere from 50-150 hairs a day – Peter Bailey, Global Technical Manager, Hair Care at Unilever
Well, according to Peter Bailey, Global Technical Manager, Hair Care at Unilever, there is an average number of strands women lose per day, dictated by the natural cycle of hair growth.That being said, the amount of hair loss that occurs in each person can differ depending on a number of factors like genetics and age. To clear up any confusion, we dig deep into the roots of this common hair concern…
How many hairs do you lose a day?
Why am I losing hair?
A few stray hairs in the sink? Don’t panic! Losing hair every day is a normal occurrence. Here are two of the main reasons for hair loss…
The hair cycle
Out of the four phases of growth that each strand goes through (Anagen, Catagen, Telogen and Exogen), only the last is known as the ‘shedding’ stage.
“After the Exogen phase, the follicle goes back into the Anagen stage and the new hair starts to grow,” says Peter.
This completes the normal cycle of hair growth. When factors like genetic programming, age or illness interrupt this cycle, it can lead to accelerated hair loss.
Hair damage
If you have damaged or brittle hair, you are more likely to experience hair breaking off and shedding as it is more porous. This is not usually a hair loss at the root, but a breakage at the mid-lengths of the hair. “Hair damage leads to a greater propensity to breakage,” confirms Peter.
Editor’s tip: If you’re experiencing breakage on damaged hair, use a repairing formula like the TRESemmé Biotin+ Repair 7 Shampoo and Conditioner to help restore broken bonds and strengthen your strands.
How much hair loss is normal?
Shedding is a person-to-person issue and as such, there’s not a ‘normal’ amount of hair loss that can be attributed to all individuals. 100-150 strands a day is considered an average amount of hair loss from the root.
That being said, both women and men can lose more or less than that depending on their hair health and age. Any factors that influence the natural hair cycle will ultimately determine how many hairs you are losing per day.
It’s also important to note that after childbirth, some women can experience elevated hair loss. This is a natural reaction due to hormonal changes during pregnancy.
“In pregnancy, the hairs remain in Anagen phase. After birth, there is a lot of shedding as the hairs move through the cycle again. This will go back to normal in 6-8 weeks,” says Peter.
What to do if you’re concerned about hair loss
For hair that is naturally thin or thinning, read up on our in-depth guide to hair loss to understand more about the natural cycle of hair growth and how you can address any concerns.
Ultimately, if you notice a change in the amount of hair loss you are experiencing, it’s important to consult a medical professional on the topic as they will be able to advise the best course of action.
