You may have noticed that with the arrival of autumn, your hair seems to be shedding more than usual. This natural process, often compared to trees losing their leaves, is a common concern among many individuals as the days grow shorter and cooler.

Dr. Christian Merkel from Munich’s Skin and Laser Center explains that this increased hair loss during fall aligns with our body’s natural hair renewal cycle, which includes phases of growth (anagen), detachment (catagen), and rest (telogen). While seasonal shedding can increase hair loss to around 300 hairs per day, it usually isn’t a cause for concern unless the amount seems excessive or persists beyond the season.

Genetic and Environmental Factors

Seasonal hair loss may be influenced by genetics, but its exact causes are not fully understood. Some scientists suggest that during summer months, more hairs remain in the growth phase to provide better sun protection; when less is needed in autumn, more hair enters the shedding phase.

Beyond Seasons: Other Hair Loss Causes

Dr. Emi Arpa, a dermatologist based in Berlin, notes that hereditary factors like androgenetic alopecia are common culprits of hair loss. However, other reasons can include hormonal changes due to birth control or perimenopause, stress, nutritional deficiencies, and even tight hairstyles.

The Role of Diet in Hair Health

• Proteins: Essential for hair growth, found in legumes and eggs.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Important for scalp health; nuts and salmon are rich sources.
• Vitamins and Minerals: B5 (in apricots), iron, zinc, biotin, selenium—consume through a balanced diet to maintain hair vitality.

A Balanced Diet vs. Supplements

Nutritional supplements may seem like an easy fix for hair loss, but Dr. Arpa emphasizes the importance of consulting with a doctor and ensuring you have no underlying deficiencies before supplementing your diet unnecessarily. A balanced diet can provide all necessary nutrients without the need for excess.

Intravenous Infusions (IV Drips)

Some practitioners offer IV drips to ensure direct nutrient absorption into the bloodstream, which may support hair growth.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy

This treatment uses a patient’s own blood plasma, rich in growth factors, to stimulate new hair growth by enhancing blood supply and providing anti-inflammatory benefits. Dr. Urselmann recommends multiple sessions for the best results.

Medications: Minoxidil and Finasteride

Minoxidil is a well-known topical treatment that can be effective for both men and women, while finasteride targets hormonal causes of hair loss. Both should only be used under medical supervision due to potential side effects.

Light Therapies: LED Lights

The use of LED helmets is gaining popularity as a non-invasive treatment option for hair loss, though scientific support for its efficacy remains limited.

Simple Scalp Massages with Essential Oils

A cost-free method to boost circulation is regular scalp massages, particularly using stimulating oils like rosemary.

Caffeine-Based Hair Products

Caffeine can stimulate blood flow and strengthen hair roots. It’s found in various serums that should be applied long enough for effectiveness.