Is Your Summer Hair Loss Normal? Seasonal Hair Loss Examined

Many men and women experience increased hair shedding during the summer. While this may be cause for concern, there is science behind seasonal hair loss that can help put your mind at ease and help you toward finding effective strategies to manage it.

But first, here is a quick reminder of how hair growth occurs in three distinct phases:

  • Anagen (Growth Phase): This active growth phase typically lasts 2-7 years, with approximately 90% of our hair in this phase at any given time.
  • Catagen (Transition Phase): A short transitional phase lasting about 2-3 weeks.
  • Telogen (Resting Phase): The final phase where hair stops growing and eventually sheds, lasting around 3 months and accounting for about 10% of our hair.

Factors Contributing to Increased Summer Hair Loss

Scientific research suggests that hair shedding follows seasonal patterns, with several studies confirming increased hair loss during late summer and early fall. But what exactly causes this phenomenon?

1. Impact of UV Radiation

Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can significantly impact hair health. Research indicates that UV rays can:

  • Degrade hair proteins, particularly keratin
  • Weaken the hair shaft, leading to brittleness and breakage
  • Contribute to oxidative stress that disrupts the normal hair growth cycle
  • Damage the cuticle layer that protects each strand

Even if you’re diligent about protecting your skin from the sun, many people forget that their scalp and hair need similar protection.

2. Heat and Humidity Effects

Summer’s high temperatures and humidity levels create challenging conditions for hair:

  • Excessive heat can alter the scalp’s microbiome and sebum production
  • High humidity can cause hair to swell and become more prone to breakage
  • Increased sweating can clog hair follicles, potentially leading to inflammation
  • Frequent swimming in chlorinated or salt water can strip hair of natural oils

summer hair loss causes treatments

3. Lifestyle and Dietary Changes

Summer often brings changes to our routines that can impact hair health:

  • Dehydration from increased outdoor activities and higher temperatures
  • Dietary shifts (including more processed foods during vacation periods)
  • Inconsistent sleep patterns during longer daylight hours
  • Stress from travel and busy summer schedules

4. Hormonal Influences

Research indicates that hormonal fluctuations may play a role in seasonal hair shedding:

  • Changes in daylight exposure can affect hormone production
  • Variations in estrogen and testosterone levels throughout the year
  • Increased physical activity in summer may temporarily alter hormone balance

5. Evolutionary Factors

Some researchers propose that seasonal hair shedding may have evolutionary origins:

  • Similar to how some mammals grow thicker coats in winter, humans may grow more hair in winter for protection
  • Summer hair shedding could be the body’s way of reducing heat retention during warmer months
  • Additional hair may grow in summer as protection against increased UV exposure, then shed when no longer needed

Summer Hair Loss: A Look at the Science

Multiple scientific studies have examined the phenomenon of seasonal hair loss, including a 2009 study analyzing data from 823 healthy women over six years found a clear annual pattern in hair shedding, with peak rates occurring in July (summer) and a smaller peak in spring. The lowest shedding rates were observed in late winter.

Another study from 2014 examining hair growth parameters in Asian subjects noted increased shedding around August-September, suggesting this pattern may be universal across different ethnic groups, though with varying degrees of intensity.

Interestingly, analysis of Google search trends between 2004-2020 revealed that searches for “hair loss” peaked consistently in July, August, and September, which suggests that this is the time of year when people notice and become concerned about increased shedding.

Practical Tips for Summer Hair Care

Protect Your Scalp and Hair from UV Damage

  • Wear wide-brimmed hats when spending extended time outdoors
  • Use hair products containing UV filters or apply scalp-specific sunscreen
  • Limit direct sun exposure during peak hours (10 AM to 4 PM)
  • Consider protective hairstyles that shield the scalp from direct sunlight

Manage Heat and Humidity Effects

  • Minimize use of heat styling tools (blow dryers, straighteners, curling irons)
  • Rinse hair with fresh water before and after swimming in pools or ocean
  • Use leave-in conditioners with humectants to balance moisture
  • Allow hair to air-dry whenever possible to reduce heat damage

Stay Hydrated and Maintain Nutrition

  • Drink plenty of water throughout the day (aim for at least 8-10 glasses)
  • Consume foods rich in vitamins A, C, D, E, and B-complex
  • Include omega-3 fatty acids from sources like salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts
  • Incorporate seasonal summer produce like berries, leafy greens, and sweet potatoes

Choose Gentle Hair Care Products

  • Use sulfate-free shampoos that won’t strip natural oils
  • Apply lightweight conditioners appropriate for your hair type
  • Consider occasional deep conditioning treatments to combat dryness
  • Use wide-tooth combs or wet brushes designed to minimize breakage

Adjust Your Hair Care Routine

  • Wash hair less frequently, if possible, to preserve natural oils
  • Apply a protective serum or oil to the ends of your hair
  • Avoid tight hairstyles that can stress the hair follicles
  • Sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction

Hair Loss Treatments and When to Seek Help

While seasonal shedding is normal, persistent or excessive hair loss may require intervention. Here are treatment options and signs that indicate you should consult a professional:

At-Home Treatments

  • Topical Minoxidil: Available over-the-counter, this FDA-approved treatment stimulates hair follicles and can help slow hair loss
  • Anti-thinning shampoos: Products containing ingredients like ketoconazole, biotin, or saw palmetto may help strengthen hair
  • Scalp massages: Regular gentle massages can improve blood circulation to hair follicles
  • Nutritional supplements: Biotin, vitamin D, iron, and zinc supplements may benefit those with deficiencies

Professional Treatments

Summer Hair Loss: When to Seek Professional Help

Consider consulting your doctor or dermatologist if you notice:

  • Sudden or excessive hair loss beyond normal seasonal shedding
  • Development of bald patches or visible thinning
  • Hair loss accompanied by other symptoms like fatigue or weight changes
  • Hair shedding that doesn’t improve after several months
  • Significant emotional distress due to hair loss

Early intervention often leads to better outcomes, so don’t hesitate to seek professional advice from your dermatologist or qualified hair loss professional if you are concerned about your hair loss.

Conclusion

Increased hair shedding during summer months is a well-documented phenomenon supported by scientific research. The combination of UV exposure, heat, humidity, lifestyle changes, and potential hormonal fluctuations can all contribute to this seasonal pattern. Understanding that this is typically a normal, temporary process can help alleviate concerns.

Remember that while some shedding is natural. Excessive or persistent hair loss warrants professional evaluation.

The key takeaway here is that while we may indeed lose more hair in summer, this seasonal shedding is generally part of our body’s natural cycle and not normally cause for undue alarm. With proper care and attention, you can maintain healthy, beautiful hair throughout the changing seasons.

References

  1. Kunz, M., Seifert, B., Trueb, R. M. (2009) ‘Seasonality of hair shedding in healthy women complaining of hair loss’, Dermatology, 219, pp. 105–110. https://www.zora.uzh.ch/id/eprint/20699/1/216832.pdf
  2. Liu, C., Yang, J., Qu, L., Gu, M., Liu, Y., Gao, J., Collaudin, C. and Loussouarn, G. (2014) ‘Changes in Chinese hair growth along a full year’, International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 36(6), pp. 531–536. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/ics.12151
  3. Hsiang, E. Y., Semenov, Y. R., Aguh, C., Kwatra, S. G. (2018) ‘Seasonality of hair loss: a time series analysis of Google Trends data 2004-2016’, British Journal of Dermatology, 178(4), pp. 978-979. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/bjd.16075
  4. Trüeb, R. M. (2003) ‘Effect of ultraviolet radiation, smoking and nutrition on hair’, Current Problems in Dermatology, 31, pp. 154-165. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12553851/
  5. Randall, V. A. (2007) ‘Hormones and hair loss: Influences of the hair growth cycle’, Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 6(2), pp. 132-139. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7432488/
Published On: June 2nd, 2025

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