What Can Cause Excessive Hair Loss?

It’s important to know that hair shedding is a normal phase of your hair’s life cycle, per the Cleveland Clinic. With that being said, if you notice that hair falling out in the shower has become excessive, there are a few causes you may want to keep in mind. The Cleveland Clinic shares that possible reasons for chronic hair loss include stress, hormonal changes, weight loss or diet, and medication.

Since various illnesses — like thyroid disease and more — can also be a factor, visit your doctor to help find out what is specifically causing your hair loss. Your doctor will also be able to help you manage it.

Excessive Hair Shedding vs. Hair Loss: What’s the Difference?

While it’s common to confuse hair loss and excessive hair shedding, there are key differences. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, excessive hair shedding generally occurs when your hair sheds more than the standard 50 to 100 hairs a day. It can last between six to nine months, and then your hair should regain its normal fullness. This may occur after a stressful event, such as giving birth or recovering from an illness.

On the other hand, hair loss is when something stops your hair from growing. There are plenty of causes, including hereditary hair loss, using harsh hair care products, medications and high-tension hairstyles. If you’re not sure if you’re experiencing hair loss or excessive hair shedding, a dermatologist can help differentiate between the two and determine what you may be experiencing.

When Should You Worry About Hair Loss In the Shower?

As we noted above, hair shedding in the shower is a fact of life. However, the Cleveland Clinic notes that if you continue to experience shedding long after your wash routine, you may be dealing with a more severe problem. Finding shed hair all over your clothes is also a sign that there may be an underlying issue. 

Source: L'Oréal