How Much Hair Should You Lose A Day?

In this article, we’ll take a look at how much hair the average person in the UK loses in a day and what might be considered normal. We’ll explain the factors that can influence daily hair shedding from stress levels to seasonal changes, and help you identify whether your hair loss might be linked to a specific condition. We’ll also discuss ways to prevent excessive hair loss and when it may be time to consult a doctor about your concerns. 

Key Takeaways

Here are the five biggest takeaways from this article about how much hair you should lose:

• Losing 50–100 hairs daily is a natural part of the hair growth cycle and usually isn’t a cause for concern.

• Stress, diet, hormonal changes, seasonal fluctuations, and medical conditions like thyroid disorders or PCOS can significantly influence hair loss patterns.

• A balanced diet with essential nutrients like iron, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids and protein is crucial for healthy hair growth and minimising hair shedding.

• Understanding the type of hair loss you’re experiencing is essential for finding the most effective solution. The UK Meds Hair Loss Quiz is a helpful tool for identifying potential causes and exploring treatment options.

• Understanding the type of hair loss you’re experiencing is essential for finding the right solution. The UK Meds Hair Loss Quiz is a helpful tool for identifying potential causes and exploring treatment options.

How much hair does the average person in the UK lose in a day?

It’s completely normal to shed hair daily, with most people in the UK losing between 50 and 100 hairs a day, often without even realising it. This natural process is simply part of the hair growth cycle and typically isn’t a cause for concern. However, in some cases, excessive hair loss can indicate an underlying medical condition or other issues requiring attention.

Certain types of hair loss, such as male and female pattern baldness, are often permanent and hereditary. Understanding what’s normal and recognising the signs of a more serious problem can help you take the right steps to manage hair health effectively [1].

Which factors can impact how much hair you lose in a day?

Stress triggers

Several factors can influence the amount of hair you lose in a day, with stress being a significant contributor. Stress can affect the body in different ways, leading to three main types of stress-related hair loss [2]:

• Telogen Effluvium: Significant stress can push a large number of hair follicles into a resting phase. Within a few months, these hairs may shed suddenly, often when combing or washing your hair.

• Trichotillomania: This condition involves an intense, often uncontrollable urge to pull out hair from the scalp, eyebrows, or other parts of the body. It’s a way some people cope with intense emotions such as stress, anxiety, frustration, or boredom.

• Alopecia Areata: Severe stress is considered a potential trigger for this autoimmune condition, in which the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, resulting in patches of hair loss.

Your diet

Your diet plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of your hair, and certain nutrients are essential for keeping your hair strong and healthy [3]. A lack of iron can lead to hair thinning or excessive shedding. To ensure you're getting enough, include iron-rich foods in your diet such as red meat, poultry, and lentils.

Vitamin D is also important for hair follicle cycling. Sources of vitamin D include fatty fish, such as salmon, egg yolks, and cheese. Omega-3 Fatty Acids also help keep your scalp nourished and promote healthy hair growth. 

Foods rich in omega-3s, such as salmon, walnuts, and chia seeds, also contribute to this benefit, as do protein sources. Hair is primarily composed of protein, so having sufficient protein in your diet is essential. Good sources include eggs, dairy products, and lean meats.

By ensuring you’re eating a balanced diet that includes these nutrients, you can support your hair’s growth and reduce the risk of hair loss caused by nutritional deficiencies.

Seasonal changes

Seasonal changes can also impact the amount of hair you lose. Research has shown that many people experience fluctuations in hair growth and shedding patterns throughout the year. Studies have found that hair shedding tends to peak in the summer, with the greatest proportion of hair entering the resting phase during this time. Seasonal fluctuations in hair growth and loss are completely natural and are not usually a cause for concern [4].

Hormonal fluctuations

Hormonal fluctuations can also impact how much hair you lose. Cortisol, often referred to as the stress hormone, plays a significant role in regulating the hair follicle cycle. When cortisol levels are high, it can disrupt the normal function of hair follicles.

Prolonged periods of elevated cortisol can lead to increased hair shedding or even the early breakdown of hair. Hormonal changes related to pregnancy, menopause and other factors can also trigger temporary hair loss, making it important to monitor your hair during times of hormonal shifts [5]. 

Medical conditions

Pregnancy

Pregnancy can also influence hair growth and shedding patterns, with many women experiencing changes during and after their pregnancy. During pregnancy, hormonal shifts often lead to thicker, fuller hair due to increased levels of certain hormones, such as estrogen. 

However, after giving birth, many women notice a temporary increase in hair shedding, particularly during the postpartum period. This type of hair loss is typically normal and is known as postpartum hair loss. It’s a temporary phase and usually resolves within six months to a year as your hormone levels gradually return to normal [6].

Menopause

Menopause can bring about significant hormonal changes that may affect your hair, with many women experiencing hair loss as a result. This hair loss typically manifests as thinning, where the hair gradually becomes thinner all over, or a widening of the parting. It’s important to note that not all women experience significant hair loss during menopause, and the severity can vary greatly from person to person [7].

Thyroid disorders

Thyroid disorders, particularly an underactive thyroid and an overactive thyroid, can lead to hair loss. In these cases, the hair loss tends to affect the entire scalp rather than specific areas. Fortunately, hair regrowth is usually possible with successful treatment of the thyroid disorder. It’s important to note that the regrowth process can take several months and may not always be completely restored to its previous thickness [8].

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition that can lead to various symptoms, including thinning hair and hair loss from the scalp. Women with PCOS may also experience excessive hair growth in other areas of the body, such as the face, chest or back, a condition known as hirsutism.

While hair loss associated with PCOS is not typically permanent, managing the condition with appropriate treatment can help alleviate symptoms and promote hair regrowth. If you suspect PCOS is the cause of your hair loss, it’s advised to consult with a doctor for diagnosis and treatment options [9].

What type of hair loss am I suffering from?

If you're unsure about the type of hair loss you’re experiencing, taking a closer look at your symptoms can help you identify the cause. From stress and hormonal changes to genetic factors, there are many potential reasons behind hair loss. Understanding the root cause is the first step in finding the right solution.

Quiz: What type of hair loss do I have?

To help you pinpoint what might be causing your hair loss, try the UK Meds Hair Loss Quiz. This quick and easy quiz can provide insights into the possible reasons for your hair loss and guide you towards the best treatment options.

How can I prevent hair loss?

Preventing hair loss starts with understanding the underlying causes and taking proactive steps to protect your hair. From maintaining a healthy diet to managing stress and using the right hair care products, there are many ways to support hair health and reduce the risk of shedding.

For a comprehensive guide on how to stop hair loss and save your hair, check out the UK Meds Guide to Saving Your Hair.

When should I see my doctor about my hair loss?

While some hair shedding is normal, there are certain situations where you should consider consulting a doctor about your hair loss.

• Noticeable Thinning: If you notice significant thinning or bald patches on your scalp, it’s a good idea to speak with a healthcare professional.

• Sudden Increase in Shedding: If you experience a sudden or dramatic increase in hair loss, it could signal an underlying medical issue that needs attention.

A doctor can assess your symptoms, run any necessary tests and guide you towards the right treatment plan to address the issue effectively.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, while it’s normal to lose between 50 and 100 hairs a day as part of the natural hair growth cycle, excessive shedding or noticeable thinning could indicate an underlying issue. Factors such as stress, diet, hormonal changes and medical conditions can all play a role in hair loss, making it important to monitor your symptoms and address potential causes. 

Taking proactive steps, such as maintaining a balanced diet, managing stress, and seeking guidance through tools like the UK Meds Hair Loss Quiz, can help you identify and manage hair loss effectively. If you’re concerned about the severity of your hair loss, don’t hesitate to consult with a doctor to explore treatment options and maintain your hair’s health.

Sources

[1] Hair loss - NHS

[2] Can Stress Cause Hair Loss? | UK Meds

[3] How To Stop Hair Loss: A Guide To Saving Your Hair | UK Meds

[4] Seasonality of hair shedding in healthy women complaining of hair loss - PubMed

[5] Effects of Hormones and Endocrine Disorders on Hair Growth - PMC

[6] Hair Loss During Pregnancy: How to Take Care of Hair Loss in Pregnancy - Flo

[7] The Menopausal Transition: Is the Hair Follicle “Going through Menopause”? - PMC

[8] Hair loss and thyroid disorders - British Thyroid Foundation

[9] Polycystic ovary syndrome - NHS