Hair shedding and thinning: when to worry and when to wait

Losing some hair every day is normal. What matters is a change in pattern: more on the brush, a wider parting, or a ponytail that feels thinner than before.

Common causes

• Stress, illness or a major life change, which often shows up months later.
• Nutritional gaps, especially iron and vitamin D.
• Hormonal changes and genetics.
• Tension from tight hairstyles, or harsh chemical treatments.

Hair responds slowly, which means the right plan is patient, and so is the person following it.

When to see a doctor

If shedding lasts more than a couple of months, or you notice patches or an itchy, flaky scalp, a scalp analysis can identify the cause before you spend money on the wrong thing.

General information only. It does not replace a professional consultation.