EXCESSIVE SHEDDING

We naturally shed up to 150 hairs every day, depending on brushing and washing routines. With excessive shedding, called “telogen ellfluvium”, the growth (anagen) phase is cut short resulting in more hairs than usual moving to the resting/shedding (telogen) phase, so hair loss becomes noticeable. Triggers include iron deficiency, crash diet, stress, pregnancy and illness, but it can take 12 weeks to notice more hair loss, so you may not pinpoint the cause.

TREATMENT

“The good news is that it’s always temporary because the follicle isn’t affected,” explains Glenn. “It usually self corrects but, if not, we need to explore and address underlying issues.” Blood tests can detect thyroid or iron problems and a lifestyle assessment can reveal dietary deficiencies and help manage stress.