Losing around 100 hairs a day is normal. See a doctor if you notice excessive shedding or obvious thin patches, because the right treatment depends on finding the cause.
Shedding or hair loss?
Shedding is hair falling out at the end of its natural cycle. When something disrupts that cycle, you might see far more hair than usual in your brush or on your pillow. Harvard Health describes a common form called telogen effluvium, where people may lose around 300 hairs a day.
Telogen effluvium is often temporary and rarely lasts longer than six months, though some cases last longer. Large bald patches usually point to something else.
Common causes
- Hereditary hair loss: the most common cause worldwide, in men and women.
- Childbirth, illness or surgery: shedding often shows up some time afterwards.
- Major stress: such as a bereavement or other difficult life event.
- Thyroid problems and hormonal changes.
- Too little iron, protein, zinc or biotin, and extreme weight loss or diet changes.
- Some medications and cancer treatment.
- Alopecia areata: an autoimmune condition that can cause patches of loss.
- Scalp conditions: including infections and scalp psoriasis.
- Hairstyles that pull and harsh hair treatments.
When to see a doctor
Book an appointment if you notice:
- Excessive or sudden hair loss
- Bald patches or obvious thinning
- An itchy, sore, red or scaly scalp
- Shedding that continues beyond about six months
- Hair loss along with other symptoms, or after starting a new medicine
A doctor may examine your scalp and order blood tests, for example to check your thyroid. Do not stop a prescribed medicine without talking to your doctor first.
What you can do at home
- Eat regular, balanced meals with enough protein.
- Choose looser hairstyles and go gently with heat and chemical treatments.
- Be patient. Hair grows slowly, so changes take months to show.
Where scalp care fits in
Cosmetic scalp care can be part of your routine, but it cannot treat a medical cause such as a thyroid problem or scarring hair loss. Our Hair Fall Control Exosomes Spray is a leave-in scalp spray with Leuco-Exo, Bicapil and Procapil, formulated to help reduce hair fall and support fuller-looking hair. Use it on a clean, dry scalp twice daily, or as directed by your healthcare professional.
If you are worried about your hair, see a doctor first. You can use cosmetic care alongside their advice if they agree.
This guide is general information, not medical advice. MHR products are cosmetic care and do not treat medical conditions. For persistent, changing or painful skin or scalp concerns, see a qualified doctor or dermatologist.
