What To Do If Your Hair Is Falling Out

Hair loss can be frustrating. And excessive shedding can affect your self-confidence and self-esteem. There’s one way to make you feel better – and that’s dealing with the cause. See what to do if your hair is falling out here…

Get Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

How much hair loss is normal?

On average you can expect to shed between 50 and 100 hairs every day. Increased hair loss is expected during colder months as scalps tend to become drier. And thinning of hair as you get older is also quite usual.

You can do a test to see if you’re losing too much by gently pulling at the hair ends – no more than 100 strands should come out. If you find that you’re losing in excess of this amount then you may need to see your GP or a dermatologist to diagnose the reason – and implement any treatments.

Why does my hair fall out?

Understanding the cycle of your hair will help explain why you shed hair. Hair grows and falls in three phases:

  • Anagen – the growing phase where hair lengthens by about one centimeter monthly.
  • Catagen – where hair is in transition and hair stops growing.
  • Telogen – the hair prepares to detach from the scalp.

What can increased hair loss can be a result of?

  • Auto-immune disorders – including alopecia areata where normal cells are mistakenly attacked.
  • Genetic factors – these include male pattern baldness.
  • Hormonal changes – such as pregnancy, menopause, or other imbalances.
  • Stress – both physical and mental stress and anxiety.
  • Poor diet – iron and zinc deficiency plus low intakes of nutrients and vitamins.
  • Medical issues – diabetes, liver and kidney disease for example.
  • Skin conditions – such as ringworm of the scalp, psoriasis, and dermatitis.
  • Medications – side effects of chemotherapy, thyroid drugs, and antidepressants are common.

How can I help to prevent hair loss?

Certain types of hair loss can be avoided by following these guidelines:

  • Keep hair loose and away from tight hairstyles that pull at the roots.
  • Aim to exercise regularly and consider yoga to save stress levels from rising.
  • Keep a well-balanced diet and stay hydrated.
  • Take nutritional supplements to avoid deficiencies.

What treatments are available?

Treatments will vary due to the cause of the hair loss but can include steroid injections and oral medications. Topical treatments can be successful, as can products that encourage hair growth and help with circulation the hair follicles.

Scalp drops can protect hair follicles from a reduction in volume and hair loss. And scalp therapy treatments can aid with infections.

What are hair replacement systems?

Professional hairstylists at Cochrane & Co’s London salon will happily discuss this non-surgical hair replacement technology with you. The products include a membrane base with real human hair providing natural results. The system is bonded to the scalp and stays in place for up to 13 weeks.

You’ll be able to choose the colour and style to suit you. And you’ll get the full treatment – cutting, fitting, and maintenance to keep the shape. You won’t have to change your lifestyle one bit as you can swim, shower, and be as active as normal. Your confidence will be boosted. And no-one will know except you.