Is it normal to lose 100 hairs a day?
Yes, for most people it is. Hair grows in cycles, so every day some hairs reach the end of their life and fall out, and a figure of around 100 is often quoted as an everyday amount. It varies from person to person, and what matters more than a number is whether your own shedding has changed, or you can see thinner patches. If it has, a trichologist or your GP can help you find out why.
Why hairs fall out every day
Each hair goes through a growing phase that lasts years, a short resting phase, and then a shedding phase, after which a new hair grows from the same spot. At any moment, a small share of your hairs are in the shedding stage, so some always fall out. With a full head of hair that adds up to dozens of hairs a day, and around 100 is often given as a rough guide. Nobody counts exactly, and a few more or fewer is not a worry on its own.
Why you may notice more on some days
- Wash days. Hairs that have loosened over a few days come out together in the shower or when you brush, so it can look like a lot.
- Longer hair. A few strands look more dramatic when they are long.
- Seasons. Many people notice more shedding in autumn.
- Life events. Illness, a high fever, childbirth, big stress, crash dieting or some medicines can lead to a noticeable increase a few months later.
Or see someone: find trichologists near you
Search the Practitioner directory by town or postcode for trichologists near you.
Or by what you would like help with: hair loss and thinning
Signs it may be more than normal
- Clumps coming out in your hand or on the brush, day after day.
- A wider parting, a thinner ponytail or a receding hairline.
- Round bald patches, or hair loss with a sore, red, itchy or scaly scalp.
- Shedding that carries on for more than a few months.
None of these tells you the cause, but they are good reasons to ask someone to take a look.
What a trichologist does
A trichologist is a specialist in hair and scalp health. At a first appointment they ask about your health, diet, medicines, hair care and family history, and look closely at your hair and scalp, sometimes with a magnifying camera. They may suggest changes to hair care or nutrition, or tell you to see your GP for tests. Trichologist is not a protected title in the UK, so ask about their training and which professional body they belong to.
Roughly what does it cost?
A first consultation with a trichologist in the UK commonly costs from £60, and often more in big cities. Ask what is included, how long it lasts and whether follow-up visits are needed before you book.
When to see your GP first
Please see your GP if your hair loss is sudden, patchy or heavy, if your scalp is sore, red or scaly, or if you also feel very tired, have lost weight without trying, feel cold, or have irregular periods. Thyroid problems, low iron and other conditions can affect hair, and a simple blood test can check. A good trichologist will tell you if another route is better first. Please don't stop or change any medicine because of hair loss without speaking to your doctor.
More questions
How can I tell if I am losing too much hair?
Look for change rather than a number: more hair than usual on your brush or pillow for several weeks, or a thinner parting or ponytail. Photos taken month by month can help you see it.
Is losing hair in the shower normal?
Often, yes. Loose hairs gather there and come out all at once, so it can look alarming. If it keeps happening and your hair is getting thinner, ask your GP or a trichologist.
Can stress make me lose more hair?
Many people notice extra shedding a few months after a stressful time, illness or big change. It often settles, but see your GP if it carries on.
Will hair grow back after shedding?
Often it does, because the follicles are still there and start new hairs. If you are worried, a GP or trichologist can help work out what is going on in your case.
Can what I eat affect my hair?
Hair needs enough protein, iron and other nutrients, and very restrictive diets can show up in your hair. Ask your GP before taking supplements, as more is not always better.