Hair loss in autumn: why you're losing more hair right now

More hair in your brush, in the drain, on your pillow – and of all times, in autumn? You're not alone. Many people lose noticeably more hair in autumn than during the rest of the year. In most cases this is harmless and eases on its own after a few weeks.

Why does more hair fall out in autumn?

Every hair goes through a cycle: it grows for years (growth phase), goes through a short transition phase and then enters the resting phase. After a few weeks to months of rest, it falls out, and a new one grows back in the same place.

Observations suggest that more hairs than usual switch to the resting phase in summer. Exactly why hasn't been fully clarified. A few weeks later, in autumn, these hairs then fall out together. You can see the result in the drain.

How long does seasonal hair loss last?

The phase usually lasts a few weeks; six to eight weeks is often mentioned. After that, things return to normal and the new hairs grow back.

How to care for your hair and scalp now

• Wash gently: A mild shampoo cleanses without putting unnecessary stress on your scalp. Lukewarm rather than hot water is also kinder.
• Don't tug: Wet hair is fragile. Detangle it carefully and avoid very tight ponytails and braids.
• Care for your scalp: Dry heated air puts a strain on the scalp. A gentle head massage, for example with a few drops of our cold-pressed argan oil, feels good and keeps the scalp supple.
• Less heat: Better to use your hairdryer and straighteners on a medium setting.

What your diet has to do with it

Your hair also needs the right things from the inside. A balanced diet is the foundation:

• Zinc contributes to the maintenance of normal hair. It's found in oats, nuts and pulses, for example.
• Biotin also contributes to the maintenance of normal hair. You'll find it in eggs, nuts and oats, for example.
• Iron contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. Good sources are pulses, green leafy vegetables and meat.

Want to make it easy? Our Xpecia tablets for women provide you with biotin, zinc and iron every day, and Xpecia for men biotin and zinc plus saw palmetto extract and keratin. That way, nutrients from the inside fit easily into your everyday life.

When should you see a doctor?

If the hair loss doesn't ease after two to three months, bald patches appear, or your scalp is red and burning, have it checked by a dermatologist.

Frequently asked questions

How many hairs a day is normal?

Losing up to around 100 hairs a day is often cited as normal. On wash days it's often more, because loose hairs come out all at once. More in How many hairs a day is normal?

Does the hair grow back?

With seasonal hair loss, yes. The hairs that fell out were already in the resting phase, and new ones are already growing in their place.

What's good for my hair in autumn?

Gentle care, little heat and a good supply of nutrients. That way you won't lose additional hair through breakage during this time.

Summary

More hair loss in autumn is usually no cause for concern. Give your hair a few weeks, care for it gently and make sure you get the right nutrients from the inside. You'll find more on the different types in our Hair loss section.