Is Summer Hair Loss a Real Thing?

Many men notice that their hair sheds more than usual during the summer months, so does this mean that summer or seasonal hair loss is true? The answer is, yes, summer hair loss is real and experienced by both men and women.

Research shows that we tend to shed more hair in summer because the body doesn’t need as much hair to keep warm. Other studies have shown that a larger percentage of hair follicles move into the resting phase during the summer months to prepare for regrowth.

Why Hair Follicles are Dormant During the Summer

One of the reasons why hair follicles are more dormant during the summer months is because the scalp is exposed to more sunlight, which affects the hormone levels in the scalp. This change in hormone levels encourages the scalp to shed hair for longer periods of time. Testosterone levels also tend to be higher in spring and autumn, which can trigger hair loss.

It’s completely normal for both men and women to shed more hair in summer but it can often be confused with other forms of hair loss.

Is Your Hair Loss More Than Seasonal?

According to hair transplant clinic Man Cave Sydney, summer hair loss is not something to be worried about. However, if you find that your hair is shedding heavily in specific areas such as the crown or temples, another type of hair loss might be at play.

Male pattern baldness usually begins with hair loss around these areas and once the hair sheds, regrowth doesn’t occur. If you feel that your hair loss is linked to something other than the seasons, it’s best to consult with a hair loss expert sooner rather than later.

Treating Summer Hair Loss

If you are experiencing summer hair loss or want to prevent it, there are a few treatments that you can try at home.

• Scalp Oils & Hair Masks

By applying a warm scalp oil or hair mask to the roots of your hair once a week during the spring and summer months, you will give your follicles a much-needed boost and encourage more regrowth. Coconut oil works really well on hair and it smells pleasant too. If you will be using scalp oil, make sure that it’s not too hot or you could end up damaging your follicles instead.

• Wear a Hat

If you are planning to be outdoors quite often during the summer, provide your scalp and hair with some added protection by wearing a hat. There are also a number of protective hair products that you can apply before you head out the door that will prevent your hair from drying out and becoming brittle.

• Stay Hydrated and Eat Right

Just like your skin, your hair also needs certain vitamins, minerals and nutrients to stay strong and healthy. Vitamin deficiencies and a lack of hydration can easily affect the health of your hair, which is why paying attention to your diet can go a long way in protecting your hair this summer. People don’t always feel like eating as much when it’s hot outside but by preparing meals in advance, you can make sure that your body is getting the nutrients it needs. If you will be drinking alcohol, make sure that you are drinking even more water to counteract the dehydrating effects. Adding more protein, iron, zinc and vitamin C to your diet will help strengthen your hair and make it more resilient.

With so many professional treatments and procedures available for hair loss, there really is no need to be concerned when you notice shedding. By taking the above steps during the summer months, you will be able to reduce the amount of shedding that you experience.