Is my hair shedding or breaking????

This is a good question that we will examine in this blog. To get started, let’s define hair shedding vs. hair breakage; then we will list some solutions to each one of these.

Hair Shedding is a completely normal part of your hair growth cycle. Strands of hair fall out of the follicle at the end of their cycle, making room for a new strand of hair to grow in. If the hair on your head is even, then you are dealing with normal hair shedding. Also, you will see a white bulb on the root of the shed hair. It is very normal to shed 50 to 100 strands of hair daily. However, if you are noticing more than this; then you may have a hormonal imbalance. Changing your diet can aide in hair shedding issues. If you are losing too much hair, then a physician may need to be consulted. Health and hair works hand in hand.

There are 3 cycles to the hair growth phase: Anagen, Catagen & Telogen.

The Anagen phase is known as the growth phase. This is the phase where the hair grows approximately 1 cm per month. It begins in the papilla and can last from three to five years. The span at which the hair remains in this stage of growth is determined by genetics. The longer the hair stays in the anagen phase, the longer the hair will grow.

The Catagen phase is known as the transitional phase, which allows the follicle to renew itself. This is the start of the hair shedding process, as the hair shaft is pushing out old hair to make room for new hair growth.

The Telogen phase is where the hair follicle remains dormant for one to four months. This is normal hair loss, as the scalp is rejuvenating for new hair to grown in.

There are some minor solutions to hair shedding. You could start taking a hair, skin and nails vitamin, do scalp massages and exercise. These added regimens could increase your hair growth; so that you can outgrow the hair that sheds. This is the main key to keeping longer hair, is to grow it faster than the rate that it sheds.

Hair Breakage is different from hair shedding, as you are losing your hair because your hair is damaged. The hair that breaks is uneven and shorter than the rest of your hair. You may also, see bald patches or very thin areas of hair. What causes hair breakage? .... split ends, excessive or high heat styles, over processed hair by chemicals and dyes, certain health conditions and medications, dry hair, too much protein, tight styles, pulling or tugging of your hair and stress. These are just a few causes of hair breakage and there could be other contributing factors.

How do you combat hair breakage? Well, the first thing is to catch the breakage when you first notice it. One main factor of hair breakage is excessive split ends. Make sure you are getting regular hair trims and taking care of split ends immediately. Holding on to damaged hair will cause you to lose more hair then you are trying to keep. The 2nd thing is, do not over process your hair. Relaxers and colors/dyes are wonderful to the have, but the end results can be so damaging. If you choose to get these styles, please make sure a licensed stylist is administering them. A stylist is trained to not over process the hair and they will keep your hair maintained while getting these styles. Thirdly, keep your scalp clean and conditioned. Use deep conditioners, protein and moisturizers as needed. Also, do not over manipulate your hair by combing or brushing your hair all of the time. Lastly, do not wear tight styles or wear the same style in the same areas. Most people who experience breakage are receiving them due to wearing tight buns or braids.

Finally, we hope this explained the difference between hair shedding and hair breakage. If you are dealing with either one of these, you can still grow your hair long and healthy. The key is to watch for any trends or signs of a hair issue that may be occurring. So be vigilant, protective and watchful of your hair strands.