Lots of individuals believe that hair loss is either genetic or hormonal. But the truth is more nuanced. Seasonal hair loss is a scientifically recorded phenomenon, and it also occurs in millions of people worldwide. Research indicates that hair loss is usually heaviest in the fall months, and most people find more hair in the shower drain or on their pillow after spring and in autumn.
The seasonal variations in climatic conditions, which are characterized by dry, frigid winters and indulgent summers, could highly influence the scalp conditions, hair volume, and shedding rates of hair in Canada. More hair shedding is observed in autumn compared to spring between September and November. It is due to a phenomenon linked to the body’s natural adaptation mechanisms.
In people who are already genetically, hormonally, or due to any other reasons facing hair thinning, these seasonal changes may intensify the seasonal hair loss.
Even though a certain amount of seasonal loss of hair is entirely normal! But you must know when it is really concerning, which can only be done through a professional assessment. At Ottawa Hair Loss Clinic & Wellness, we specialize in distinguishing between natural seasonal cycles and underlying conditions that require intervention
The Science Behind Seasonal Hair Loss
Your hair doesn’t grow continuously. Instead, each follicle cycles through distinct phases: anagen (growth), catagen (transition), and telogen (resting). Seasonal changes can influence these cycles in predictable ways.
Research shows that hair shedding peaks during certain times of the year, particularly in late summer and fall. Studies indicate that the percentage of hair follicles in the telogen phase increases during these months. It then leads to noticeable hair shedding.
This pattern likely evolved as a protective mechanism. Just as animals shed their coats seasonally, human hair may respond to changes in daylight duration, temperature, and environmental factors. The biological clock, influenced by melatonin and other hormones sensitive to light exposure, may trigger synchronized shedding across the scalp.
“Seasonal hair loss is real. However, experts aren’t actually 100% sure why it happens. The hair goes through three cycles: Telogen, anagen, and catagen. So it has growth phases, it has resting phases, and then it has dying off, falling phases. And those can cycle at different rates. So people may just feel like they’re losing hair, when it may just be that the hair is cycling differently at different times of the year,” says Dr. Angela Lamb, director of the Westside Mount Sinai Dermatology Faculty Practice |
Understanding Normal vs. Concerning Seasonal Hair Loss
What’s Normal?
The average person loses 50-100 hairs per day under normal circumstances. During seasonal peaks, this can increase to 100-150 strands daily without indicating a problem.
Normal seasonal shedding typically:
- Lasts 2-3 months before stabilizing
- Doesn’t create visible bald patches or significant thinning
- Shows uniform shedding across the scalp
- Resolves on its own without intervention
- Maintains overall hair volume and density
Seasonal Hair Fall: When to Seek Professional Help?
While seasonal fluctuations are natural, certain signs suggest something more serious may be occurring:
- Shedding that persists beyond 3-4 months
- Visible scalp showing through in specific areas
- Receding hairline or temple recession
- Patchy or asymmetric hair loss
- Hair that breaks easily or feels different in texture
- Shedding accompanied by scalp inflammation, itching, or pain
- Loss of eyebrow or body hair alongside scalp hair
- Recent significant stress, illness, surgery, or medication changes
Factors That Increase Seasonal Hair Loss
While seasonal shedding is a natural cycle, certain factors can intensify its impact:
Factor | Impact on Seasonal Hair Loss |
Nutritional Deficiencies | Reduced intake of vitamins (A, C, E) and iron in winter; vitamin D deficiency linked to telogen effluvium. |
Stress and Cortisol Fluctuations | Chronic stress and seasonal stressors increase cortisol, pushing follicles into the telogen phase prematurely. |
Hormonal Changes | Seasonal thyroid changes and vitamin D-related hormonal shifts affect estrogen/progesterone balance; postpartum loss may overlap with fall shedding. |
Environmental Factors | Cold air and indoor heating cause dryness and breakage; summer UV, chlorine, and salt water weaken and damage hair. |
Underlying Conditions | Conditions like androgenetic alopecia, alopecia areata, telogen effluvium, and scalp infections worsen during seasonal transitions. |
Professional Diagnosis of Seasonal Hair Loss: Why It Matters?
Many people attempt to self-diagnose and treat seasonal hair loss using online advice or over-the-counter products. However, without proper evaluation, you risk!
Misdiagnosis: What appears to be seasonal shedding might actually be androgenetic alopecia, telogen effluvium, or another condition requiring specific treatment.
Delayed Treatment: Waiting too long to address underlying causes can allow permanent follicle damage to occur.
Ineffective Solutions: Generic treatments don’t address your specific triggers, wasting time and money.
Worsening Conditions: Some popular treatments can actually accelerate shedding if used incorrectly or for the wrong diagnosis.
“Seasonal hair loss is one of the most misunderstood aspects of hair health. Many people panic when they see increased shedding in the fall, not realizing it’s often a natural cycle. Our role is to help clients distinguish between normal seasonal patterns and true hair loss that requires treatment.” _Mikaella Celestin, CEO & Certified Trichologist, Ottawa Hair Loss Clinic & Wellness. |
Stop Ruining Your Hair Health; Take a Comprehensive Diagnostic Approach
In Ottawa Hair Loss Clinic Wellness, we have the following evaluation process:
- Comprehensive Medical History:We look at recent diseases, medication, stressful experiences, dietary modifications, and family history of hair loss.
- Physical Examination:Experts examine the density of the hair, the condition of the scalp, and shedding patterns with a high level of trichoscopy and scalp photography to record initial states and monitor the progress.
- Complete Blood Work:We measure thyroid (TSH, T3, T4), ferritin, and complete iron panel, vitamin D, complete blood count, and hormone panel (when ordered).
- Pull Test and Trichoscopy Analysis:These are special tests that show the portion of hairs at each stage of growth and show the pattern of miniaturization indicative of androgenetic or inflammatory alopecia versus infection or other pathology of the scalp.
- Lifestyle, Wellness, and Environmental Assessment: We assess seasonal patterns, hair, stress, coping patterns, and nutritional patterns during the year.
Evidence-Based Therapy Plans
After we are able to establish whether you are just losing your hair because of the season or if there are other factors, then we come up with a special treatment program.
| Strategy | What does it do? | Key Notes |
| Nutritional Optimization | Corrects deficiencies that amplify shedding; supports healthy follicle function. | Iron, vitamin D, B-complex, zinc, and biotin are frequently addressed. Supplementation should be guided by blood work. |
| Examination by a Trichological Expert | Complete examination and analysis of your scalp and hair health | Customized plan according to your diagnosis, that shows real results. |
| Scalp Health Treatments | Reduces inflammation; improves follicle environment; enhances blood flow. | May include medical-grade shampoos, topical treatments, and professional scalp therapies. |
| Stress Management | Lowers cortisol; normalizes hair cycling; prevents premature telogen shift. | Wellness techniques include mindfulness practices, lifestyle modifications, and professional counseling when needed. |
| Advanced Treatments | Stimulates growth factors; improves scalp circulation; activates dormant follicles. | Advanced hair loss treatments are recommended for chronic or severe cases. |
| Protective Hair Care | Minimizes breakage; preserves existing hair; reduces mechanical stress. | Customized product recommendations and styling guidance based on hair type and seasonal challenges. |
Professional Seasonal Care Advice
Fall/Winter Protocol to Prevent Seasonal Hair Loss
- Add more water to hair and scalp using moisturizers.
- Indoors, use humidifiers to fight dry air.
- Keep hair warm with the right type of headwear.
- Increase the vitamin D by using supplements (under supervision)
- Change frequency of washing hair to avoid over-drying.
- Use milder styling methods at the time of maximum shedding.
Spring/Summer Protocol:
- Use UV protection products before going out in the sun.
- Wash hair completely following the swim in chlorinated or salt water.
- Keep hydrated and fed.
- Get non-greasy, lightweight scalp treatments.
- Shield the head with hats or special sun protection agents.
- Checked excessive shedding in late summer.
Invest in Your Hair Health!
Your seasonal hair loss doesn’t have to be a source of anxiety twice a year…
If you’re experiencing concerning hair loss, whether seasonal or otherwise, don’t wait until the problem becomes severe. Hair follicles are most responsive to early intervention, and most causes of excessive shedding are very treatable when this is done early.
The Ottawa Hair Loss Clinic & Wellness is determined to make you experience optimal hair health in all seasons. We use our innovative treatment strategies. We merge the latest diagnostics, evidence-based therapy, and caring support for you to achieve the outcomes that not only make the hair grow but also rebuild your confidence.
“Healthy hair is a reflection of your overall wellness. Addressing your seasonal hair loss properly optimizes health. We are preventing future problems, and helping our patients feel confident and vibrant every day of the year.”
Contact Ottawa Hair Loss Clinic & Wellness today to schedule your comprehensive evaluation. Together, we’ll develop a personalized plan that works with your body’s natural cycles, not against them.