PHASE 2: Catagen is a transitional growth phase that lasts about two weeks. Growth stops and the outer root sheath shrinks, attaching to the hair root. About 3% of hairs are in this phase at any time.
PHASE 3: During the telogen phase, which usually sets in toward the end of summer and beginning of autumn, the hair is resting rather than growing, and so shedding becomes more noticeable. This stage lasts about 100 days and it is normal to shed 50-100 hairs a day.
What else impacts hair loss?
It all comes down to having a healthy lifestyle. “You want to get enough sleep and eat right,” says Dr. Jodi. “All of these things can impact your hair cycle and the quality of the hair itself.” She explains that factors both inside and outside of the body can affect the amount and severity of hair shedding and loss. Here’s what you need to know:
STRESS AND SLEEP
We all know the effect stress can have on the body and our hair is no exception. Dr. Jodi explains that many individuals face an intensified amount of hair loss following episodes of acute or chronic stress. When we’re under stress, the levels of cortisol (the stress hormone) in the body increase, which can interrupt the growth of the hair follicle. Her advice: find healthy ways to deal with the stress in your life and make getting a full night of sleep a priority.
NUTRITION
“Your hair follicles have high cell turnover and a very vigorous metabolism, so they need nutrients to sustain their growth,” says Dr. Jodi. Any excessive caloric or nutritional deficiency can cause structural defects in the hair follicle as well as hair loss. The key is to eat a balanced, healthy diet with protein, fatty acids, vitamins and minerals.
ILLNESS
Those who have had a change in health status or have suffered from an illness like COVID-19, may also experience an imbalance in their hair growth cycle resulting in increased shedding. This type of loss is called telogen effluvium and can last for 4-6 months after an illness. “With this type of hair loss, it’s not permanent and never results in complete baldness,” says Dr. Jodi.
PREGNANCY
If your hair has been thinning since your baby was born, you're not alone. Postpartum hair loss, also known as postpartum alopecia, is a type of hair loss that occurs after childbirth. It typically occurs as a result of a sudden shift in the hair growth cycles, causing a premature shedding of hair. “The shedding can occur 2-6 months after giving birth,” says Dr. Jodi.
TIGHT HAIRSTYLES
The way you style your hair can cause excess shedding and loss. Dr. Jodi points out that very tight ponytails, braids and even hair extensions can damage the hair follicle and lead to hair loss. This type of hair loss is called traction alopecia and is the result of persistent pulling force on the hair follicles.
BRUSHING AND STYLING
Along with tight hairstyles, the way you brush, style and dry hair can lead to breakage and hair loss. “Combing wet hair can extend already thin hair to its breaking point,” says Dr. Jodi. Having a gentle approach and using products that strengthen fragile, thinning hair are the keys to reducing hair loss due to breakage.
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