Hairfall vs. Hairloss - What's The Difference?
Hair issues have become a universal concern as almost every woman has faced them at some point. The sight of strands on your pillow, comb, or shower drain can feel frustrating, even alarming. In response, we dive into solutions. We try shampoos, oils, serums, and even age-old remedies, hoping to see a difference. But don't you think you are stuck in a loop? Have you ever stopped to think if you truly understand your situation?
Do you know whether you are dealing with hair fall or hair loss? These two terms may sound similar, but they are very different in their causes and outcomes. And addressing the wrong problem might delay the desired results or worsen the situation. So, let's unravel the mystery together and get to the root of your hair concerns.
Understanding the Difference Between Hair Fall and Hair Loss
Yes, we understand you are noticing more strands than usual. But is your hair falling, or has it stopped growing back? The following differences help you find out.
What is Hair Fall?
Hair fall is a normal part of your hair's growth cycle, which consists of three main phases: anagen (growth phase), catagen (transition phase), and telogen (resting phase). During the telogen phase, it's natural for hair strands to shed, with an average loss of 50–100 strands per day being completely normal.
However, when the shedding becomes excessive, it's a sign that something is disrupting this natural cycle. This excessive hair fall is often temporary and can be managed with the right care.
What are the Causes of Hair Fall?
The causes of hair fall can be classified into two categories: internal (related to your body) and external (related to external factors). Both sets of causes are valid and often overlap.
Internal Causes of Hair Fall:
- Hormonal Fluctuations: Changes during pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, or conditions like PCOS can disrupt your hair's natural growth cycle and lead to hair fall.
- Stress: Emotional or physical stress triggers a condition called telogen effluvium, where more hair starts shedding prematurely.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: If your diet lacks essential nutrients like iron, zinc, vitamin D, or protein, it can weaken hair.
- Health Conditions: Thyroid disorders, anemia, or other chronic illnesses can impact hair growth.
External Causes of Hair Fall:
- Seasonal Changes: Weather fluctuations, especially during monsoon or winter, can temporarily cause hair to fall.
- Harsh Hair Products: Shampoos or treatments with strong chemicals strip your hair of natural oils, leading to breakage and fall.
- Heat and Chemical Styling: Overusing tools like straighteners and curlers or undergoing frequent chemical treatments damages hair cuticles, making strands prone to falling out.
What are the Symptoms of Hair Fall?
- Thinner Ponytail: If your ponytail feels noticeably thinner or smaller than it once did, this could be a sign of excessive hair shedding.
- Increased Shedding: Seeing clumps of hair come out while washing or brushing your hair can indicate more than just typical shedding.
- No Bald Spots: Unlike hair loss, hair fall typically doesn't cause bald spots or patches.
What is Hair Loss?
Hair loss is a more serious and often permanent condition where hair doesn't grow back after falling out. Unlike hair fall, which is typically temporary, hair loss leads to noticeable thinning, bald patches, or a receding hairline. It happens when the hair follicles are damaged or shrink, which prevents hair from regrowing.
What are the Types of Hair Loss?
- Androgenetic Alopecia (Pattern Baldness): This is the most common type, often linked to genetics. It causes gradual thinning at the crown, temples, or along the hairline, resulting in bald spots or a receding hairline.
- Alopecia Areata: An autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks hair follicles, causing sudden, round patches of hair loss.
- Telogen Effluvium (Chronic Hair Loss): Unlike the temporary shedding seen in hair fall, this type of hair loss occurs when the hair enters the resting phase (telogen) prematurely, leading to excessive shedding over time.
- Traction Alopecia: Caused by consistent tension on the hair from tight hairstyles like braids or ponytails. Over time, this can damage the hair follicles, leading to permanent hair loss.
What are the Causes of Hair Loss?
- Genetics: A family history of hair loss can make you more susceptible to conditions like androgenetic alopecia.
- Hormonal Imbalances: Conditions like pregnancy, menopause, or thyroid disorders can cause hormonal changes that affect hair growth.
- Chronic Illnesses: Diseases like diabetes, lupus, or thyroid issues can contribute to hair loss.
- Medications and Treatments: Certain medications, like those for cancer, depression, or high blood pressure, can cause hair thinning as a side effect.
- Scalp Infections: Fungal or bacterial infections like ringworm can cause hair loss.
- Severe Stress or Trauma: Physical or emotional stress can trigger hair loss conditions like telogen effluvium.
What are the Symptoms of Hair Loss?
- Bald Spots or Patches: Round or irregular bald patches could indicate hair loss, especially with alopecia areata.
- Widening Part: If your hair partition is getting wider or your scalp is more visible, it may mean thinning hair.
- Receding Hairline: A slowly retreating hairline or thinning around the temples is common with male or female pattern baldness.
What is the Remedy for Hair Fall and Hair Loss?
Prevention is better than cure. Taking proactive steps towards maintaining your hair health can stop hair fall and minimize the risk of hair loss. These tips are:
- Use the Right Hair Oil: Pamper your hair with regular scalp massages with the Rooting for Your Hair Oil. It is made with a powerful blend of 10 Ayurvedic ingredients such as Organic Rosemary Essential Oil, Organic Pumpkin Seed Oil, Jojoba, Vitamin E Oil, and more. This oil is 100% natural, strengthens follicles, and facilitates healthy hair growth.
- Hair Care: Use a sulfate- and paraben-free shampoo and conditioner. Avoid overwashing your hair, and use lukewarm or cold water for cleansing. Use a titanium needle derma roller for healthy hair growth.
- Eat a Nutrient-Rich Diet: Include foods rich in vitamins, iron, and protein to nourish your hair from within. Consider adding nuts, leafy greens, and lean meats to your diet.
- Increase Circulation to Your Scalp: Stimulate blood flow to your scalp with regular derma rolling and scalp massages. This increased circulation brings more oxygen and nutrients to the hair follicles, helping them stay nourished and supporting healthy hair growth.