Hair fall is one of the most common concerns dermatologists hear today. Patients often panic when they notice strands on their pillow, comb, or bathroom floor and assume they are going bald.
However, hair fall is not always hair loss. In many cases, it is simply part of the body’s natural hair growth cycle.
At Orthoderma Clinic, Dr. Vidushi Singal helps patients understand the difference between normal shedding and true hair loss—so they can take timely, appropriate action.
Understanding the Natural Hair Growth Cycle
Hair grows in a continuous cycle, and it is normal to shed some hair every day. Each hair follicle goes through three main phases:
1. Anagen Phase (Growth Phase)
This is the active growth stage of hair.
- Lasts 2 to 7 years
- Around 85–90% of your hair is in this phase at any given time
- Hair grows approximately 1 cm per month
A healthy anagen phase is essential for thick, long, and strong hair.
2. Catagen Phase (Transition Phase)
This is a short transitional phase where hair stops growing.
- Lasts 2–3 weeks
- Only 1–2% of hair is in this phase
The follicle shrinks and detaches from the blood supply.
3. Telogen Phase (Shedding Phase)
This is the resting and shedding phase.
- Lasts 2–4 months
- Around 10–15% of hair is normally in this phase
- Hair eventually falls out to make way for new growth
Losing 50–100 hairs per day is considered normal and part of this cycle.
Hair Fall vs Hair Loss: What’s the Difference?
Normal Hair Fall (Physiological Shedding)
- Occurs due to the natural telogen phase
- Hair regrows from the same follicle
- Shedding is temporary and self-correcting
Hair Loss (Alopecia)
- Occurs when follicles stop producing new hair
- Leads to thinning, receding hairline, or bald patches
- Requires medical evaluation and treatment
Understanding this difference prevents unnecessary anxiety and self-medication.
Common Causes of Increased Hair Fall
Even though shedding is normal, certain triggers can increase hair fall temporarily:
1. Stress and Illness
High stress, fever, COVID, or surgery can push more hair into the telogen phase (telogen effluvium).
2. Nutritional Deficiencies
Low iron, vitamin D, B12, or protein intake can weaken hair and increase shedding.
3. Hormonal Changes
Thyroid disorders, PCOS, pregnancy, and menopause can disrupt the hair cycle.
4. Crash Dieting and Weight Loss
Rapid weight loss deprives follicles of nutrients, triggering excessive shedding.
5. Seasonal Shedding
Many people experience more hair fall during certain seasons, which is usually temporary.
When Hair Fall Becomes Hair Loss
You should consult a dermatologist if you notice:
- Sudden excessive hair shedding for more than 3 months
- Visible thinning or widening of the parting
- Receding hairline or bald patches
- Family history of genetic hair loss
- Hair fall with itching, redness, or scaling
Early diagnosis can prevent permanent hair thinning.
Why Self-Treatment Can Be Risky
Many patients start oils, home remedies, or random supplements after seeing social media advice. However:
- Not all hair fall requires supplements
- Wrong treatments can worsen shedding
- Underlying medical causes may be missed
A dermatologist can identify the cause and create a personalised treatment plan.
How Dermatologists Treat Hair Loss
Treatment depends on the cause and may include:
- Blood tests to identify deficiencies or hormonal issues
- Medical treatments such as topical or oral medications
- Nutritional supplements tailored to individual needs
- In-clinic procedures like PRP, exosomes, or laser therapy
- Lifestyle and diet recommendations
The goal is to stabilise hair fall first, then promote regrowth.
Expert Advice from Dr. Vidushi Singal
“Hair fall is common, but persistent hair loss is not. Understanding the hair cycle helps patients avoid panic and seek timely medical advice. Early treatment leads to better outcomes.”
Final Thoughts
Seeing hair strands fall can be alarming, but not all hair fall is a sign of baldness. The body naturally sheds hair as part of the growth cycle.
However, persistent or progressive hair thinning should never be ignored. Consulting a qualified dermatologist ensures accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
If you’re concerned about hair fall or hair thinning, schedule a consultation at Orthoderma Clinic for expert guidance and personalised care.