As a hair care specialist with years of experience in the field, I've often been asked about hair loss, particularly the noticeable amount of hair one might find in the shower drain. It's a common concern, but rest assured, it's typically nothing to worry about.

Firstly, it's important to understand that **hair loss is a natural part of the hair growth cycle**. Hair goes through three phases: the anagen (growth) phase, the catagen (transitional) phase, and the telogen (resting) phase. At the end of the telogen phase, the hair falls out, making way for new hair to grow. **On average, a person can lose 50 to 100 strands of hair per day**, and this is considered normal.

However, there are several factors that can contribute to an increase in hair shedding:


1. Stress: Physical or emotional stress can cause hair to enter the telogen phase prematurely, leading to increased hair loss.


2. Hormonal Changes: Changes in hormone levels, such as those that occur during pregnancy, after childbirth, or due to conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can affect hair growth and lead to shedding.


3. Nutritional Deficiencies: A lack of essential nutrients, such as iron, zinc, and biotin, can impact hair health and result in hair loss.


4. Hazardous Hair Practices: Rough handling of hair, such as aggressive brushing, tight hairstyles, or frequent use of hair ties, can cause hair breakage and increase the amount of hair lost.


5. Shampooing: The act of shampooing can dislodge hair that is already in the telogen phase, making it seem like more hair is being lost than actually is.


6. Long Hair: People with longer hair may notice more hair in the shower simply because there is more hair to shed.

7.
Elastic Bands: Wearing hair up in elastic bands frequently can cause tension on the hair follicles, leading to breakage and hair loss.

8.
Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions and treatments, such as thyroid disorders, anemia, or chemotherapy, can cause hair loss.

9.
Medications: Some medications, including those used for blood pressure, arthritis, depression, birth control, and more, can have hair loss as a side effect.

10.
Aging: As we age, our hair naturally becomes thinner, and the rate of hair loss can increase.

If you're noticing a significant increase in hair loss, it's a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider or a dermatologist. They can help determine if there's an underlying cause and suggest appropriate treatments or lifestyle changes.

Remember, it's normal to lose some hair daily, but if you're concerned about the amount, seeking professional advice is always the best course of action. Maintaining a healthy diet, managing stress, and being gentle with your hair can also go a long way in promoting overall hair health.

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Finding clumps of hair in your shower drain is actually totally normal. I spoke to celebrity stylist Ken Paves, who said that women naturally lose between 50-100 strands of hair per day. That number can increase when you rough it up with shampoo, have longer hair, or wear it up in elastic bands frequently.Oct 14, 2015read more >>