Concerns About Hair Shedding
Every time I wash or style my hair, it feels like I’m losing an alarming amount—almost two handfuls. I switched to using a curly hairbrush instead of just my fingers, but unfortunately, it hasn’t made a difference. Is this a common issue? At 21, I've dealt with this for some time, but it feels like it’s getting worse lately.
Answers (1)
3/31/2025, 3:10:39 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about your hair shedding, especially when it feels excessive. While some hair loss can be normal, losing large amounts of hair regularly—particularly at your age—can be distressing. Several factors might contribute to this issue, including stress, hormonal changes, nutritional deficiencies, or underlying health conditions.
Explanation:
Hair shedding varies from person to person, but generally, losing about 50-100 strands a day is considered normal. If you're losing significantly more than this, it may be worth exploring potential causes. Changes in hair care products, like switching to a different brush, may help with styling but aren't likely to impact shedding directly. Other factors, such as diet, overall health, and stress levels, can play a significant role in hair health.
Next Steps:
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Assess Your Diet: Ensure you’re getting adequate nutrients, especially protein, vitamins (like B12 and D), and minerals (like zinc and iron), which are crucial for healthy hair. Consider keeping a food diary to evaluate your intake.
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Manage Stress: High stress can lead to increased hair shedding. Explore stress-relief techniques such as mindfulness, exercise, or hobbies that help you relax.
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Gentle Hair Care: While styling, use a wide-toothed comb or a brush designed to minimize breakage. Avoid tight hairstyles that pull on the hair and limit heat styling tools.
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Track Your Symptoms: Monitor when the shedding occurs and if you notice any other symptoms, such as changes in your scalp (itchiness, redness) or hair thickness. This information can be helpful if you choose to consult a healthcare professional later.
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Consider a Dermatologist: If shedding continues or worsens, or if you experience noticeable thinning on your scalp, it might be beneficial to consult a dermatologist. They can evaluate your condition more thoroughly and suggest specialized treatments if necessary.
Taking these steps can help you better understand and manage your hair shedding. Remember, you're not alone in this, and there are options available to support your hair health. Let me know if you have further questions or need additional information!
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