Can Seasonal Changes Cause Hair Loss? Understanding the Autumn Shed
If you’ve noticed more hair strands on your brush lately, you’re not imagining it. Autumn shedding is a real — and normal — phenomenon. Here’s what you need to know to take care of your hair through the seasonal changes and keep it looking its best.
The Hair Growth Cycle and Seasonal Shedding
Hair naturally follows a complex cycle of growth (anagen phase), transition (catagen phase), and rest (telogen phase). At any given time, around 85–90% of your hair is actively growing. However, during the late summer months, a higher percentage of hairs naturally shift into the resting phase. This biological shift results in increased shedding as autumn approaches.
Seasonal daylight changes play a major role in this transition. Less sunlight can influence hormonal rhythms, specifically melatonin and prolactin levels, both of which impact the hair growth cycle. Additionally, UV exposure accumulated over summer months can cause subtle damage to hair follicles, contributing to fragility and premature hairloss. Researchers have documented this “autumn shed” phenomenon for decades, noting that it typically resolves within a few months without intervention. However, if you notice persistent thinning or hairloss beyond a normal range, it’s a good idea to seek professional advice.
Causes and Contributing Factors
Several contributing factors make autumn a peak time for noticing hair loss. Increased UV exposure during summer can damage the scalp and hair shafts, weakening their structure and resilience. Shifts in daylight hours affect hormonal balances that govern the hair growth cycle, leading more follicles to enter the telogen (resting) phase.
Changes in humidity and temperature also stress the scalp, causing dryness, irritation, and sometimes flaking, all of which can contribute to hair shedding. Furthermore, inflammation is gaining more recognition as a significant driver of hair loss. When the scalp’s immune system becomes overactive, it can inadvertently signal follicles to stop growing and enter the shedding phase prematurely. This highlights the importance of maintaining a healthy, hydrated scalp environment year-round to reduce seasonal effects.
How to Manage Autumn Hair Shedding: In-Clinic and At-Home Solutions
The good news? There are effective ways to support your scalp health and reduce excessive hair loss during autumn. At Satini Cosmetic Clinic, we offer a curated range of professional treatments and homecare products to strengthen hair resilience.
In-Clinic Treatments:
- PRP Therapy (Platelet-Rich Plasma): A regenerative solution that stimulates your natural hair growth using your body’s own growth factors.
- Microneedling with Exosomes: Enhances hair follicle activity by delivering potent bio-signaling molecules directly to the scalp.
- Red Light Therapy: Encourages better blood flow and oxygen delivery to hair follicles, essential for healthy regrowth.
At-Home Products:
- Topical Finasteride: A prescription-strength option to slow and reduce hormone-related hair thinning safely and effectively.
- Dp Dermaceuticals EXO-GROW Shampoo and Conditioner: Formulated with cutting-edge exosome technology, designed to minimise inflammation and optimise scalp health.
- Mesoestetic Tricology Solutions: A complete professional system to fortify hair fibres, protect against oxidative stress, and enhance hair density over time.
By combining in-clinic therapies with targeted homecare, many clients see a noticeable improvement in hair texture, thickness, and retention through seasonal transitions.
Professional Support for Hair Loss
While mild seasonal shedding is perfectly normal, not all hair loss should be dismissed as temporary. If you notice hair thinning that persists beyond three months, or visible scalp patches, it’s time for a deeper evaluation. At Satini Cosmetic Clinic, we believe early intervention is crucial.
During your consultation, Dr Nadja Haub will assess your scalp health, lifestyle factors, and medical history to determine the most effective treatment plan for you. Our goal is to offer professional, empathetic support that suits your unique situation — whether that means a simple topical regime or a more comprehensive regenerative treatment approach.
Thoughts from Dr Nadja Haub
Seasonal hair shedding may be part of the natural rhythm, but your hair deserves proactive care. With the right support, you can minimise hair loss, boost hair vitality, and strengthen your scalp environment year-round.
If hair thinning is a concern, early action is key. We now offer a range of proven solutions including PRP therapy, microneedling with exosomes, and prescription topical Finasteride to preserve and rejuvenate your hair. Your journey to healthier, thicker hair starts with understanding your options — and at Satini Cosmetic Clinic, we’re here to guide you at every step.
Book your consultation today and give your hair the strength it deserves before the winter months arrive.
Cheng M, Ma C, Chen HD, Wu Y, Xu XG. The Roles of Exosomes in Regulating Hair Follicle Growth. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2024 Jul 5;17:1603-1612. doi: 10.2147/CCID.S465963. PMID: 38984321; PMCID: PMC11232880.
