How to Beat Hairloss in Summer? Dermatologists Explain!

Hairloss in summer season can be exacerbated due to various external factors. The increased heat and humidity lead to more sweating on the scalp, which, when combined with dirt and excess oil, can block hair follicles and weaken the roots, making hair more prone to falling out. Prolonged sun exposure can also damage hair proteins, resulting in dry, brittle hair and further contributing to hair loss. In this article, we will delve into the causes of hair loss during the sunny season and explore effective ways to manage and protect your precious tresses.

Can Summer Cause Hair Loss?

While the seasonal hair fall is a natural process, there are external factors that can intensify the issue. Summer brings higher temperatures and humidity, which can lead to increased sweating on the scalp. Sweating, when mixed with dirt and excess oil, can clog hair follicles and weaken the roots, making hair more prone to fall out.

Additionally, prolonged sun exposure can damage hair proteins and lead to dry, brittle hair, further contributing to hair loss. UV rays from the sun can break down the bonds that give our hair its strength, causing it to become weak and fragile.

Hair Fall in Summer Season

One of the major concerns during summer is the increase in hair fall. Many individuals notice an alarming amount of hair shedding, and they wonder if something is wrong. Well, the truth is, some hair fall during the summer season is perfectly normal. Our hair has its growth cycle, and it’s common for some hair follicles to enter the resting phase during this time, leading to shedding.

Causes of Hairloss in Summer 

One of the primary reasons for heightened hair fall in the summer is the natural growth cycle of our hair. Each hair strand goes through distinct phases: anagen (growth phase), catagen (transitional phase), and telogen (resting phase). Hair shedding occurs during the telogen phase.  With the rise in temperatures, many hair follicles tend to enter this resting phase, causing an apparent increase in hair fall.

Moreover, the harsh sun rays can take a toll on the health of our hair. The intense ultraviolet (UV) radiation damages the hair’s cuticle, which is the outer protective layer, making the hair more vulnerable to breakage and split ends. Additionally, exposure to the sun can cause the hair to become dry, frizzy, and devoid of moisture, leading to further breakage and hair fall.

Another crucial factor contributing to summer hair fall is excessive sweating. Sweating in the scalp region can lead to a build-up of sebum, dirt, and debris, clogging the hair follicles and hindering healthy hair growth. This, in turn, can lead to an increase in hair fall during the summer months.

Furthermore, frequent swimming in chlorinated or salt water can also be detrimental to the health of our hair. Chlorine and salt can strip the hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and brittle, leading to breakage and hair loss. Therefore, it is essential to take precautions and protect the hair before taking a dip in the pool or the sea.

Apart from external factors, our diet and lifestyle choices can also play a significant role in summer hair fall. During the warmer months, we tend to consume more cold beverages and indulge in sugary treats. These dietary habits can lead to nutrient deficiencies, which can impact the health of our hair, making it prone to breakage and shedding.

Is Hair Loss in Summer Normal?

Yes, some degree of hair fall in summer is normal, but it’s essential to differentiate between regular seasonal shedding and excessive hair loss. If you notice clumps of hair falling out or significant thinning, it may indicate a more severe issue. In such cases, it’s crucial to consult a  hair loss dermatologist to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

RemoteDerm is an online dermatology consultation service that can help address hair loss and other skin-related concerns efficiently, eliminating the need for long waiting periods associated with in-person appointments. With RemoteDerm, patients can conveniently seek professional advice from licensed dermatologists without leaving their homes.

Hair Fall in Summer is Normal: How to Manage it?

While some hair loss is unavoidable and difficult to prevent fully, there are a few things you may do to reduce hair loss during the summer:

• Stay Hydrated: One of the most crucial practices to maintain luscious locks and a healthy scalp is staying well-hydrated. Drinking an ample amount of water each day not only benefits your overall well-being but also plays a pivotal role in ensuring your scalp and hair remain adequately moisturized.
• Protect Your Scalp: Embrace the fashionable utility of a wide-brimmed hat or exude elegance with a stylish scarf draped around your head. Apart from being chic accessories, they double as reliable guardians for your scalp against the harsh and damaging effects of direct sunlight. Shielding your scalp from the sun’s harmful UV rays helps preserve its natural balance and safeguards the integrity of your hair follicles, promoting long-term hair health.

• Use SPF for Hair: Elevate your hair care routine by embracing products specifically formulated with SPF protection. With these products, you can create an added layer of defence against the harmful UV radiation that can wreak havoc on your precious strands.
• Avoid Tight Hairstyles: Opt for loose, flowing hairstyles that exude elegance while also preventing unnecessary tension on your delicate hair follicles. By alleviating stress on your strands, you foster a nurturing environment for healthier hair growth, ultimately contributing to a luxuriant and voluminous mane.
• Limit Heat Styling: Make the conscious decision to reduce heat styling to a minimum. Embrace your natural hair texture and limit the use of hot styling tools to prevent further damage, brittleness, and split ends. By adopting heatless styling techniques and letting your hair breathe freely, you unlock its true potential.
• Use Gentle Hair Products: Opt for hair care products enriched with nourishing natural ingredients, thoughtfully curated to pamper your locks. Free your tresses from the harsh embrace of chemical-laden products, and instead, indulge them in the loving embrace of botanical extracts and gentle formulations.
• Keep Hair Clean: Establish a regular cleansing routine. Washing your hair diligently not only rids your locks of accumulated sweat, dirt, and excess oil but also cleanses your hair follicles, promoting a healthy scalp environment. This ritual serves as a foundational step for your hair’s overall well-being.
• Trim Regularly: Embrace the transformative power of regular trims, an essential ritual that breathes life into your hair and its growth journey. By snipping away split ends and removing damaged strands, you facilitate unhindered growth and allow your hair to flourish with unbridled vitality.
• Eat a Balanced Diet: Cultivate a beauty-from-within approach to hair care by mindfully curating a balanced and nutritious diet. Incorporate a bounty of hair-friendly vitamins and minerals into your daily meals, such as leafy greens, nutrient-rich nuts, and omega-3 fatty acid-packed fish. 

Final Thoughts

In summary, experiencing some level of hair loss during the summer is normal due to the hair’s natural growth cycle. However, external factors like heat, humidity, sun exposure, and sweating can worsen hair loss. To address this issue, it’s crucial to take proactive steps to protect and nourish your hair.

Effective measures include staying hydrated, shielding the scalp from UV rays with hats or scarves, and using hair products with SPF protection. Avoiding tight hairstyles and minimizing heat styling can prevent damage and breakage while opting for gentle, natural hair care products promotes healthier hair growth. Regular trims and a balanced diet with hair-friendly nutrients also contribute to maintaining vibrant locks. In case of excessive hair loss, seeking guidance from a dermatologist through online consultation services can provide personalized advice for effective hair loss management. By incorporating these strategies into your summer hair care routine, you can confidently enjoy the season with healthy and beautiful hair throughout the year.

FAQs

1. Can diet impact hair loss in summer?

Yes, a balanced diet with hair-friendly nutrients such as leafy greens rich in vitamins and minerals, nutrient-rich nuts, and omega-3 fatty acid-packed fish plays a significant role in maintaining healthy hair and preventing excessive shedding during the summer season.

2. Is excessive hair fall during summer a cause for concern?

Yes, excessive hair fall during summer may indicate an underlying issue and should prompt a consultation with a dermatologist to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

3. Can scalp massages help prevent summer hair loss?

Scalp massages can stimulate blood flow to the hair follicles, promoting hair growth and a healthy scalp environment, making them beneficial in reducing hair fall.

4. Are there specific hair masks or treatments for summer hair care?

Yes, there are hair masks and treatments with ingredients like aloe vera and coconut oil that can provide added nourishment and hydration to combat the drying effects of summer, thus contributing to stronger and healthier hair.

5. How often should hair be washed during summer?

The frequency of hair washing during summer can vary depending on individual hair type and activity level, but it’s generally recommended to wash hair every two to three days to keep it clean and maintain a healthy scalp.