Hair and seasonal variation

Hair loss is a common occurrence in both men and women who are in the later stages in life. The loss of hair may also come earlier to individuals who are genetically predisposed to these types of disorders. Alopecia and other forms of alopecia differ in appearance and presentation for men and women. Men usually develop a typical type of hair loss known as male pattern baldness whereas women lose hair gradually and do not develop any obvious or significant pattern. Women’s hair loss typically happens slowly and only increases in rate during and after pregnancy as well as during menopause. Most of this hair loss is caused by changes in hormone levels, medical conditions, and other external factors.

Women’s hair loss is also said to occur in cycles with seasonal variations that reverses itself in time. Some women have reported the loss of hair during spring and summer, with the loss of hair starting in May and continuing up to two or three months. Some other women also report a thinning of the hair line and around the crown area in the winter season lasting until late spring or early summer. The loss of hair was said to have been reduced after the application of hormone injections. Despite the reports and testimonies of many individuals who lose hair at certain times of the year, there is still no medically established reason for this type of hair loss. These types of hair loss may simply be attributed to the difference in diet and nutrition. Vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients affect the body’s health as well as that of the hair.

Humans, compared to other animals, have evolved to develop an asynchronous type of hair growth and do not shed hair all at the same time depending on the seasons. Although it is possible that there are changes in the hair’s density and thickness, there is no basic principle that can explain this type of hair loss. However if for any reason you do observe this seasonal variation and change in your hair growth cycle, it is recommended to consult your physician to determine the exact cause of hair loss. Hair loss specialists can conduct tests and examinations to help find the reason for hair loss – be it that the hair loss is due to poor nutrition or if it is a symptom of some other disease.

The growth of hair, however, is a whole different story. There have been studies that were conducted that showed a relationship between hair growth and the changes in the season. Studies show that hair in the anagen phase reached a peak in March and fell at a steady but gradual rate in the succeeding months through to September. The number of hair that was shed was at a peak at around August and September. The average loss of hair recorded at this time was about 60 hair strands in one day – which is more than twice the number that fell out in the preceding winter.

It is best to remember that the growth and loss of hair do not depend largely on the seasons, but mostly on your health and nutrition. So if there are any changes that happen in the growth of your hair, consulting a physician is the best thing to do.