Why Is My Hair Falling Out? Causes & When to Worry

Hair shedding is normal – but if you’ve suddenly noticed more hair in the shower, on your pillow or when brushing, it’s natural to worry. Understanding why hair falls out, what counts as normal and when shedding is a sign of something deeper can help you feel more in control.

1. How Much Hair Loss Is Normal Per Day?

Most people lose 50–100 hairs per day. This is a natural part of the hair growth cycle:

• Anagen: Active growth

• Catagen: Short transition

• Telogen: Resting

• Exogen: Shedding

Shedding outside this range – or hair coming out in clumps – may point to an underlying issue. Read more in our guide: How much hair loss is normal?

2. The Most Common Causes of Hair Loss

Hair loss isn’t usually caused by just one thing – there’s usually more factors at play. Read on to learn more about the five most common causes of hair loss:

1. Genetics (Androgenetic Alopecia)

The most common form of hair loss in both men and women, also known as male and female pattern hair loss.

• Women may notice: A widening part, diffused thinning
  
  

• Men may notice: A receding hairline, a thinning crown

2. Hormonal Changes

Major hormonal shifts can disrupt the growth cycle and lead to shedding:

• Pregnancy and postpartum changes
  
  

• Menopause
  
  

• Thyroid imbalances
  
  

• PCOS

3. Medical Conditions

Hair loss may be linked to specific health issues, including:

• Thyroid disorders
  
  

• Iron deficiency anemia
  
  

• Autoimmune conditions like alopecia areata
  
  

• Scalp infections or inflammation

If shedding is accompanied by fatigue, weight changes or comes on suddenly, medical assessment or blood tests can help identify the underlying causes.

4. Nutritional Deficiencies

Hair is made of protein and relies on vitamins and minerals from our diets to grow. Deficiencies in the following can trigger shedding:

• Iron
  
  

• Vitamin D
  
  

• Zinc

5. Stress & Lifestyle Factors

Stress can push more hairs into the resting phase, causing shedding 2–3 months later (known as telogen effluvium).

Triggers include:

• Illness or fever
  
  

• Surgery
  
  

• Emotional stress
  
  

• Rapid weight loss
  
  

• Poor diet or restrictive eating

3. Hair Care Habits That Can Cause Hair Loss

Certain styling practices can contribute to thinning and breakage:

• Tight ponytails, buns or braids
  
  

• Excessive heat styling
  
  

• Chemical treatments (bleaching, relaxing, perming)
  
  

• Over-washing or harsh shampoos

4. When to Worry About Hair Loss

You should seek help from your GP or a dermatologist if you notice:

• Rapid or sudden hair loss
  
  

• Bald patches or circular areas of missing hair
  
  

• Hair coming out in clumps
  
  

• Excessive shedding lasting longer than 3 months
  
  

• Scalp pain, itching or redness
  
  

• Thinning accompanied by fatigue or physical symptoms

Early intervention increases the likelihood of successful treatment.

5. How to Support Healthier Hair

Even if your shedding is temporary, there are steps you can take to protect and strengthen your hair:

1. Nutrition: Eat a balanced diet with protein, iron, zinc and healthy fats
   
   

2. Reduce Stress: Build in rest, movement and consistent sleep
   
   

3. Gentle Styling: Minimise heat, avoid tight hairstyles and reduce colour/chemical exposure
   
   

4. Scalp Care: Use gentle, nourishing products
   
   

5. Consider Treatments: Depending on your cause, options may include topical minoxidil, hormonal treatments or nutrient supplementation

Final Thoughts

• Losing 50–100 hairs a day is normal
  
  

• Genetics, hormones, stress, medical conditions and hair care habits are the most common causes of increased shedding
  
  

• Sudden, severe or long-lasting shedding should be assessed professionally by a dermatologist or GP
  
  

• Early diagnosis and management makes a significant difference in maintaining your long-term hair health

References 

Available at : https://www.nhs.uk/symptoms/hair-loss/