Hair shedding during washing can often be alarming, but it’s a normal part of the hair growth cycle.
On average, it’s considered normal to lose about 50–100 hairs daily, including those that fall out during wash days.
However, understanding the difference between shedding and breakage is crucial to maintaining healthy hair and addressing potential concerns.
Understanding hair shedding
Hair shedding is a natural process tied to the hair growth cycle, which includes growth (anagen), rest (telogen), and shedding (exogen) phases. Shedding occurs when hair naturally falls out from the scalp at the end of its growth cycle. During wash days, loose hairs that were already detached often come out more noticeably due to massaging, detangling, or combing.
For most people, shedding around 50–150 hairs on wash days is normal. Factors like washing frequency, hair texture, and styling practices can influence how much hair you notice. For instance, those who wash their hair less frequently might observe more shedding during wash days simply because the loose hairs have accumulated.
Recognizing hair breakage
Breakage, on the other hand, occurs when the hair shaft snaps due to weakness or damage. Unlike shedding, which releases hair with a tiny white bulb at the root, breakage results in shorter strands with no root. Common causes of breakage include:
• Overuse of heat tools
• Chemical treatments
• Excessive tension from hairstyles
• Lack of moisture or protein in the hair
To minimize breakage, adopt gentle detangling techniques, keep your hair moisturized, and reduce heat styling.
When to be concerned
Excessive hair shedding or noticeable thinning may indicate underlying issues such as stress, hormonal imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, or medical conditions like alopecia. If you’re losing clumps of hair or seeing bald spots, consult a dermatologist or trichologist.
Conclusion
Shedding during washing is normal, but understanding the distinction between shedding and breakage is key to identifying healthy hair habits. If in doubt, monitoring changes and adjusting your routine can help maintain your hair’s strength and vitality.
