Losing approximately 50 to 100 hairs a day is completely normal. Hair grows in cycles, and older strands naturally shed to make room for new growth.
Hair fall becomes a concern when you start noticing:
Clumps of hair while washing or combing
A widening central parting
A receding hairline
Thinning around the crown
Round bald patches
Increasingly visible scalp
Understanding the cause is the first and most important step towards effective treatment.
Common Causes of Hair Fall
1. Telogen Effluvium: Sudden, Excessive Shedding
Telogen effluvium commonly develops two to three months after a physical or emotional trigger, such as:
High fever, dengue or COVID-19
Surgery or prolonged illness
Childbirth
Crash dieting or rapid weight loss
Severe emotional stress
Nutritional deficiencies
Hair usually sheds from all over the scalp rather than from one specific area. In many cases, it gradually improves within several months once the underlying trigger has been corrected.
2. Pattern Hair Loss
In men, pattern hair loss commonly causes a receding hairline and thinning around the crown.
In women, it usually appears as a widening central parting or reduced hair density over the top of the scalp.
Pattern hair loss is influenced by genetics and hormones. It is usually progressive, which means early diagnosis and treatment can help preserve more hair.
3. Nutritional Deficiencies
Low levels of iron, vitamin D, vitamin B12 and protein may contribute to excessive shedding.
These deficiencies are commonly seen in women, vegetarians, people following restrictive diets and individuals experiencing rapid weight loss.
Supplements should ideally be taken only after identifying an actual deficiency.
4. Thyroid Conditions and PCOS
Thyroid disorders can affect the normal hair-growth cycle and cause diffuse thinning.
PCOS may cause scalp hair thinning along with symptoms such as irregular periods, acne, facial hair growth or weight changes. Both conditions require appropriate medical evaluation and management.
5. Dandruff and Scalp Conditions
An itchy, inflamed or excessively flaky scalp can increase hair breakage and shedding.
Persistent dandruff, scalp psoriasis and fungal infections require proper treatment rather than repeated oiling or cosmetic serums.
6. Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata usually appears as one or more round, smooth bald patches on the scalp or beard.
It is an autoimmune condition and often responds better when diagnosed and treated early.
Hair-Fall Myths You Should Stop Believing
“Oiling Stops Hair Fall”
Hair oil may condition the hair shaft and reduce dryness, but it does not reach the hair root or treat most medical causes of hair fall.
Heavy or prolonged oiling may also worsen dandruff in some individuals.
“Frequent Shampooing Causes Hair Fall”
Hair that is already in the shedding phase often becomes visible while washing. Shampooing does not pull healthy hair out from its roots.
Keeping the scalp clean is important, particularly if you have dandruff or an oily scalp.
“Winter Hair Fall Is Permanent”
Mild seasonal shedding may occur in some people and usually settles. Persistent or severe hair loss, however, should not automatically be blamed on the weather.
What Actually Helps With Hair Fall?
1. Identify the Cause
Depending on your symptoms and medical history, your dermatologist may recommend blood tests such as:
Complete blood count or haemoglobin
Ferritin or iron levels
Vitamin D
Vitamin B12
Thyroid profile
Not everyone needs every test, so the evaluation should be personalised.
2. Eat Adequate Protein
Hair is primarily made of a protein called keratin. Include suitable protein sources in your daily diet, such as:
Dal and pulses
Paneer and curd
Eggs
Soy products
Sprouts
Nuts and seeds
3. Treat Dandruff Properly
A dermatologist-recommended medicated shampoo may be used two to three times a week, depending on the scalp condition.
Apply it to the scalp—not just the hair—and leave it on for the recommended duration before rinsing.
4. Handle Your Hair Gently
Avoid:
Very tight hairstyles
Excessive heat styling
Frequent straightening or curling
Repeated bleaching and chemical treatments
Aggressive towel drying
Brushing wet hair roughly
5. Begin Proven Treatment Early
Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include topical minoxidil, prescription medicines, PRP or other dermatologist-guided procedures.
These treatments generally work best when started before hair thinning becomes advanced. Do not begin prescription medicines or minoxidil without professional guidance.
Avoid Random Supplements and Serums
Buying multiple supplements, gummies, oils and hair-growth serums without identifying the cause may waste both time and money.
Different causes of hair fall require different treatments. A product that helps one person may not address your underlying condition.
When Should You See a Dermatologist?
Book a consultation if:
Excessive shedding continues for more than three months
You notice round bald patches
Your central parting is becoming wider
Your hairline is receding
Your scalp has persistent itching, redness or scaling
Hair fall occurs with irregular periods, weight changes or fatigue
You notice a sudden and significant reduction in hair density
Worried About Hair Fall?
Book a comprehensive hair and scalp consultation at Derma With Me Clinic to identify the cause and receive a personalised treatment plan.
Product information is for general education and is not a substitute for advice from a qualified healthcare professional.