Hair Shedding and Hair Loss Aren't the Same—Here's How to Tell the Difference?

To differentiate between hair shedding and hair loss, consider these key points:

Hair Shedding

• Normal hair shedding involves losing between 50-100 hairs per day during the telogen phase of the hair growth cycle.
• Excessive hair shedding (telogen effluvium) occurs when you lose significantly more than normal due to factors such as stress, hormonal changes, nutritional imbalance, age, or certain drugs and treatments.
• Excessive hair shedding often resolves itself within 6-9 months after the stressor is removed.

Hair Loss

• Hair loss (anagen effluvium) happens when something prevents hair growth, usually caused by external factors.
• Common causes include genetic predisposition (hereditary hair loss), immune system overreactions, certain medications or treatments, hairstyles that pull on the hair, harsh hair care products, and compulsively pulling out one's own hair.
• Hair loss typically requires medical attention and may involve widening parts, receding hairlines, bald patches, or overall thinning.

To tell the difference, look for signs like a higher number of hair strands in combs, brushes, showers, or pillows compared to normal shedding levels. Consult a dermatologist for a definitive diagnosis and appropriate treatments, which can include medications, lifestyle changes, and hair transplants, depending on the cause.