From the Guidelines
Seasonal hair loss is a normal phenomenon that can be managed with good hair care habits, adequate nutrition, and stress management, and most cases resolve naturally within 2-3 months without the need for medical treatment, as supported by general medical knowledge and guidelines for managing alopecia areata 1. To manage seasonal hair loss, consider the following:
- Maintain good hair care habits, including gentle washing with a mild shampoo 2-3 times weekly, avoiding harsh styling products, and limiting heat styling.
- Ensure adequate nutrition with foods rich in protein, iron, zinc, and vitamins A, C, D, and E.
- Supplements like biotin (2.5-5mg daily) may help, though evidence is limited.
- Manage stress through regular exercise, adequate sleep, and relaxation techniques. Some key points to consider:
- Seasonal hair loss occurs due to natural hair growth cycles and environmental changes, and is influenced by factors like changing daylight hours, temperature fluctuations, and stress levels during seasonal transitions.
- If hair loss is severe, persistent beyond 3 months, or accompanied by other symptoms like scalp irritation or patchy loss, consult a dermatologist as it may indicate an underlying condition requiring medical treatment, such as alopecia areata, which can be difficult to treat and may cause considerable psychological and social disability 1.
- In cases of alopecia areata, treatment options may include intralesional corticosteroids, contact immunotherapy, and topical corticosteroids, although the effectiveness of these treatments can vary and may have side effects 1.
- Counselling and psychological support may also be important for individuals with alopecia areata, particularly children, to help them cope with the changing aspects of their condition and find a new level of self-acceptance of their altered body image 1.
From the Research
Seasonal Hair Loss
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies to support the concept of seasonal hair loss.
- However, some studies mention types of hair loss that may be related to seasonal changes, such as telogen effluvium, which is a nonscarring, noninflammatory alopecia of relatively sudden onset caused by physiologic or emotional stress 2.
- Telogen effluvium can be triggered by various factors, including changes in hormone levels, stress, and nutritional deficiencies, which may be more prevalent during certain times of the year.
- Other types of hair loss, such as androgenetic alopecia, can be treated with various therapies, including low-level laser therapy (LLLT), minoxidil, and finasteride 3, 4, 5, 6.
- These treatments have shown efficacy in promoting hair growth and reducing hair loss, but their effectiveness may vary depending on the individual and the underlying cause of hair loss.