Why you lose more hair in summer: a comprehensive guide to understanding and preventing it

Why you lose more hair in summer: a complete guide to understanding and preventing it. That is why we have created this comprehensive guide to help you understand why and how to prevent it.

Why do we lose more hair in summer?

Summer can be a particularly challenging time for your hair. With the scorching sun, chlorine from swimming pools, salty sea water and high humidity levels, it is no wonder your hair suffers a bit. But why you lose more hair in summer? Here is the science behind it.

The hair life cycle and the effect of summer

The anagen phase

The life cycle of a hair is divided into three main phases: anagen, catagen and telogen. The anagen phase is the active growth phase, which can last from two to six years. During this phase, hair grows about one centimetre per month.

The catagen phase

The catagen phase is a transitional period lasting about two weeks. During this phase, the hair detaches itself from the hair follicle and the follicle shrinks.

The telogen phase

Finally, there is the telogen phase, or resting phase, which lasts about three months. During this phase, the old hair falls out and a new hair starts to grow from the follicle. Normally, about 10-15% of your hair is in this phase.

Summer and the telogen phase

A recent study revealed that the number of hairs entering the telogen phase in summer increases. This could be due to the fact that the human body tends to retain hair during winter to protect the scalp from the cold.

Environmental influences on ageing hair

UV radiation and hair

The sun's UV rays can damage the protein structure of the hair, causing dryness, brittleness and loss of colour. In addition, they can irritate the scalp and affect the health of hair follicles.

Chlorine, seawater and hair

Chlorine from swimming pools and salty sea water can dry out the hair and scalp, making the hair brittle and susceptible to shedding.

Thermal stress and hair

High summer heat can cause thermal stress that leads to hair damage and loss. In addition, the excessive use of heat styling tools such as hairdryers and straighteners can exacerbate the problem.

How to prevent hair loss in summer

Nutrition and hair

A balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins and minerals can help strengthen hair and prevent hair loss. Foods rich in omega-3, vitamin D and biotin are particularly beneficial.

Hydration and hair

Keeping your body hydrated is crucial for healthy hair. Drinking plenty of water helps keep the scalp hydrated and promotes hair growth.

Protecting hair from the sun

It is important to protect the hair from UV radiation. Hats, bandanas or the use of hair protection products with SPF can help.

Summer hair care products

Using intensive moisturising and nourishing summer-specific shampoos, conditioners and treatments can help protect your hair from heat and sun exposure.

Practical tips for summer hair care

Besides protection and nutrition, there are some practical tips that can help prevent hair loss in summer. For example, avoid tying your hair too tightly, limit the use of heat styling tools, rinse your hair after swimming to remove chlorine or salt, and do regular moisturising treatments.

FAQ

What causes hair loss in summer? Exposure to UV rays, chlorine, seawater, heat stress, and hair growth in the telogen phase can all contribute to hair loss in summer.

Is there a way to prevent hair loss in summer? Yes, by protecting your hair from UV radiation, maintaining a balanced diet, moisturising properly and using hair care products suitable for summer.

Why does hair look drier in summer? UV rays, chlorine, seawater and heat stress can dry out the hair, making it more brittle and susceptible to hair loss.

Why do I lose more hair in summer even if I don't go to the beach or swimming pool? Even without exposure to chlorine or seawater, UV exposure and heat stress can cause damage to the hair and lead to increased hair loss.

Is it normal to lose more hair in summer than in other seasons? Yes, it is normal. A recent study showed that the body tends to lose more hair in summer and autumn.

Are there specific products I can use to protect my hair in summer? Yes, there are many hair protection products available, such as shampoos, conditioners and intensive moisturising and nourishing treatments specifically for summer, as well as products with SPF to protect hair from UV rays.

Conclusion

In conclusion, summer hair loss is a common phenomenon caused by various factors, including UV exposure, heat stress and changes in the hair life cycle. However, there are several ways to prevent and manage this condition, from protecting the hair from environmental damage to adopting a balanced diet and adequate hydration. Remember, hair care should be an essential part of your summer beauty routine!