Why does more hair fall out in summer?
Hair reacts badly to changes in the seasons. It is not favoured by fluctuations in temperature or weather conditions. Most often, weakening of the hair is visible during the spring and autumn solstice. In some people, however, the biggest problem occurs in summer. What causes hair loss in the summer? What are the causes and how do you deal with them? Check out our summer hair care guide.
Hair in summer
Summer is the favourite time of year for many people. It is associated with fun, freedom and relaxation. Unfortunately, the weather at this time of year is not the best for us. Heat, humidity, high temperatures, raging storms, dry air, sunlight have a huge impact on our health and appearance. Both our skin and hair suffer in summer. Their condition deteriorates mainly due to higher than normal temperatures and sunlight. These factors contribute to excessive hair loss. According to a study conducted by researchers at the Medical University of Baltimore, more hair is lost in spring and summer than in other seasons of the year. This is because the more sunlight we get, the shorter the lifespan of the hair – which ends up in hair loss. Research conducted at the University of Baltimore shows that most hair is lost in the summer and, interestingly, this problem mainly affects women.
Why do we lose more hair in summer?
It is an undeniable fact that we lose more hair in summer. However, hair loss is not always a cause for concern. In humans, as in animals, body hair (also on the head) has a protective function – to protect the body from loss. So if it gets hot outside, hair falls out, because from a practical point of view we do not need it. Losing hair in the summer should therefore not be surprising or alarming. Shawn Kwatra, head of research at the University of Baltimore, explains that this is a seasonal phenomenon – just like dogs and cats that lose their hair.
However, heat and UV radiation are not the only culprits for excessive hair loss in summer. Excess sebum, which accumulates on the scalp due to the heat and sun, also contributes to hair loss in the summer. In summer, the body produces excessive amounts of sebum because it wants to protect the skin on your head from drying out. Unfortunately, a by-product of this is that sebum weakens the hair, which then falls out. Overactive sebaceous glands also contribute to the greasy appearance of summer hair.
Ponytails, buns, braids and plaits are hair styles that make a comeback every summer. They are designed to reduce the amount of hair exposed to UV rays and provide us with comfort and breathability. But braided hairstyles have the disadvantage of tying the hair up tightly, which can weaken it. Wearing hairstyles that pull hair tight (and for a long time) weakens the hair roots and makes them fall out. Particularly dangerous are high, tightly pinned up hairstyles. It is also not advisable to wear your hair upside down both day and night.
How do I care for my hair in the summer?
Hair loss in summer is normal. In autumn, everything should return to normal. However, this does not mean that you should not take care of your hair and try to prevent excessive hair loss. In summer, it is best to apply the principles of prevention. First of all, you should protect your hair from the harmful effects of the sun. A head covering protects the hair from UV rays. In addition, the ends of your hair should be treated with silicone or oil before going outdoors (and necessarily on the beach) and with hair cosmetics with UV filters. Shampoos and conditioners with SPF blockers can easily be bought in shops and drugstores. Hair cosmetics should also contain moisturising agents in addition to filters. This will keep your hair less oily and will not disturb the hydrolipidic film of your scalp. You should always wash your hair regularly with gentle hair cosmetics after swimming in the sea, ocean or pool. As soon as you get out of the water you should rinse your hair with running or bottled water and then dry it in the shade. Avoid tying your hair up tightly in the summer. It is better to use cotton scrunchies or headbands instead of rubber bands and hair clips. Avoid tying your hair up all the time – day and night. Avoid hair jewellery with metal parts, which can heat up very quickly.
In summer it is also good to take care of your diet. This will help to accelerate hair growth. Your daily diet should include bananas, sultanas, sweet potatoes, green vegetables, olive oil and citrus fruits. Hair will also grow faster with supplements containing silicon, biotin, pantothenic acid, niacin, zinc and iron. Experts advise, however, not to experiment too much with your diet (especially reduction diets) during the holidays and not to change contraceptive methods or supplements. All this may contribute to hormone fluctuations and have a negative impact on hair and its condition. Extreme treatments such as keratin straightening should also be avoided, as they can weaken the hair roots.
Excessive hair loss in summer – is there anything to worry about?
Excessive hair loss in summer is normal and fortunately only temporary. Specialists emphasise that you should not worry about it but only take care of your hair in a preventive manner. However, you should be concerned if you notice loss of hair near the temples or on the crown of your head or if your scalp becomes transparent. In such situations, it is worth consulting a trichologist and check whether hair loss is not caused by alopecia. If the diagnosis is confirmed, it is worth starting treatment. The most effective fight against baldness can be undertaken by hair transplantation. This can be performed in both men and women. It is a minimally invasive procedure, safe and guarantees fast and permanent results, and above all much more effective than hair growth supplements, cosmetic procedures or shampoos and conditioners accelerating hair growth. To get more information and your best offer, visit meditravel.com and get a free online consultation.
