Hair loss is a natural part of the hair growth cycle. Every day, people shed a certain number of hairs as part of this normal biological process. But when does shedding become a cause for concern? If you’ve found more hair in your brush or on your pillow lately, you might be wondering: “Is my hair loss normal, or is something wrong?” In this article, we’ll explore how much hair loss is considered typical, what causes excessive shedding, and how to know when it’s time to seek professional advice.

It’s completely normal to lose 50 to 100 hairs per day. This shedding occurs during the telogen phase of the hair growth cycle, when old hairs fall out to make room for new growth. Factors like hair washing, brushing, and styling may make this hair loss more noticeable, but it’s usually not a sign of a problem.

Hair loss might appear more significant if your hair is long or dark, making fallen strands more visible. However, as long as new hair continues to grow and the overall density remains unchanged, daily shedding is no reason to panic.

Hair loss becomes abnormal when the rate of shedding exceeds new hair growth, leading to visible thinning or bald patches. This condition is often referred to as telogen effluvium, and it can be temporary or chronic depending on the cause.

Signs that your hair loss may be abnormal include:

• Noticeable thinning or reduced volume
• Visible scalp in areas that used to have more coverage
• Clumps of hair coming out during washing or brushing
• Receding hairline or patchy bald spots

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s time to evaluate potential underlying causes.

Numerous factors can contribute to abnormal hair loss, including:

• Hormonal changes: Pregnancy, menopause, thyroid imbalances
• Nutritional deficiencies: Lack of iron, vitamin D, biotin, or protein
• Stress and trauma: Physical or emotional stress can shock the system
• Medical conditions: PCOS, autoimmune diseases, scalp infections
• Medications: Chemotherapy, blood pressure drugs, antidepressants
• Hairstyling practices: Tight hairstyles, frequent bleaching, and heat styling

Identifying the root cause of your hair loss is key to reversing it or slowing its progression.

If you suspect that your hair loss is becoming excessive, consider keeping a hair fall journal. This involves noting:

• How much hair you shed daily or weekly
• Any changes in your health, diet, or stress levels
• New products or medications you’ve started using

You can also perform the “pull test”: Gently tug a small section of hair (about 60 strands). If more than 6 hairs come out, it might indicate excessive shedding and warrants further evaluation.

If your hair loss persists for more than a few weeks, is sudden or severe, or is accompanied by symptoms like itching, redness, or pain, consult a dermatologist or trichologist. They may recommend:

• Blood tests to check for deficiencies or hormonal imbalances
• Scalp biopsies to rule out skin conditions
• Hair analysis to examine growth patterns

Early diagnosis improves the chances of effective treatment.

Depending on the cause, treatments may include:

• Topical treatments: Minoxidil is a common FDA-approved solution for both men and women
• Oral medications: Finasteride (for men), supplements like biotin or iron
• Lifestyle adjustments: Stress management, balanced nutrition, gentle hair care
• Medical procedures: PRP therapy, laser therapy, or hair transplant surgery for advanced cases

Combining treatments with healthy habits can help restore hair growth and prevent future loss.