When Shedding & Hair Loss is a Problem

Excessive Hair Shedding

Shedding is a natural part of the hair growth cycle – giving way to new hair growth. But when you notice more than normal shedding, there may be an underlying issue. Hormonal imbalances, stress, thyroid issues, dieting/poor nutrition, pregnancy, menopause and daily beauty practices are some of the factors that may lead to shedding above your norm.

Hair Shedding, Thinning and Hair Loss

Excessive hair shedding is often one of the first signs of a hair loss condition. Hair thinning and hair loss is a complex issue, therefore it’s important to understand the hair growth cycle and causes of hair loss.

Anagen Phase

The growth stage of hair. About 85% of hair on the scalp is in the growth stage at any one time.

Lasts 3-5 years.

Catagen Phase

The transition stage of hair. The hair bulb detaches and prepares for shedding.


Lasts 2-3 weeks.

Telogen Phase

The resting stage of hair. About 15% of hair is in this phase at any given time. New hair begins growing as the old hair is resting.

Lasts about 3 months.

Exogen Phase

The shedding stage of hair. The old hair is loosened and detaches resulting in shedding. The new hair will push up and the cycle starts again with the Anagen growth phase.

Normal shedding is considered 50-150 hairs per day.

Certain life moments can cause a temporary disruption to the natural growth cycle and result in the onset of excessive hair shedding. Once the trigger is identified, this type of hair loss can often be reversed. Temporary hair loss often presents itself within 2-3 months of the life event. Typically hair will resume it's natural growth cycle within 6 months.

Possible Triggers:

  • Acute Stress / Sudden Emotional Shock
  • Hormonal Shift or Imbalance (birth control, childbirth, thyroid issue)
  • Poor Nutrition / Sudden Change in Diet (crash dieting)
  • Medications / Treatments / Chemotherapy
  • Over Styling of Hair (damage from color or bleach, tension from hair styles)

Beauty Routines & Hair Shedding

Some of the simple acts we do to our hair, like washing, blow-drying and brushing can pull and stress hair causing it to fall out before it's time. On average we naturally shed between 50-100 strands, but sometimes more hair loss can occur due to our everyday styling practices.

Taking good care of your hair, switching up hair styles, and using INTACT can help to give you the freedom to style and play.