Hair Shedding: Normal or Not?

According to DeMio, the amount of hair shedding you do on a daily or weekly basis can depend on a number of factors including hormonal imbalances, genetics, the weather, or even stress. 

Hormonal imbalances or Vitamin Deficiency

“As we age, our body's hormone levels change and can produce less estrogen, which is needed to help keep hair in its growth phase,” explains DeMio. Talk to your doctor about any vitamin deficiencies you could be experiencing, and work out a plan to correct it. Of course, you can always take over-the-counter hair and nail growth vitamins if your doctor approves. DeMio says, “Getting any imbalances or vitamin deficiencies back on track can help restart hair growth.” 

Not Shampooing Enough

“Shedded hair can also build up when shampooing is infrequent,” says DeMio. “Shampooing a few times a week can help to get rid of shedding hair and keep the scalp cleaner and healthier and helps keep hair follicles from becoming clogged with dirt, oil and product build up.” He adds that “If daily washing is not needed, try to skip a day or two to avoid styling that can contribute to hair breakage.” 

Using The Wrong Ingredients

DeMio suggests avoiding mineral oil in your hair products because “It’s derived from petroleum and can prevent skin from releasing toxins and slow down cells from the normal [hair] development process.”  You may have heard of minoxidil in relation to hair shedding, but it’s actually a medication that’s intended for hair loss and not normal hair shedding. “To find out if minoxidil is right for you and to find out about possible side effects, see your doctor first,” says DeMio. 

How to stop hair shedding

Brush Gently

Are you brushing your hair with too much vigor or using damaging rubber hair ties? Rethink your routine and see where you can be a little more kind to your locks. DeMio suggests using softer elastics (like these KITSCH Eco-Friendly Nylon Elastics) and loosening up tight buns and ponytails. He recommends a boar-bristle brush to “comb hair less aggressively.” We suggest BRIOGEO’s Vegan Boar Bristle Brush to tame strands.

Avoid Dry Shampoo

“Dry shampoo can weigh down hair and clog follicles,” says DeMio. Using a clarifying shampoo once a week can help clear out product buildup to keep roots as healthy as possible. 

Go Natural

DeMio points out that natural oils like peppermint oil and herbs like serenoa serrulata arnica can help promote hair growth by stimulating hair follicles. “Serenoa serrulata arnica, or saw palmetto, is an herb that is said to slow down hair loss,” says DeMio. (You can find the superstar ingredient in NUNZIO SAVIANO Oxilogica Hair Loss Drops.) “Peppermint oil stimulates blood circulation and supports oxygen production,” he adds. To use, dilute the oil with a bit of water (it’s super concentrated), and massage gently into the scalp. Leave for 20 minutes and then rinse it off. 

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