How Much is Normal Hair Loss Per Day for a Female - Hair Transplant Specialists - Treatment Rooms London (2024)

Quick Summary: How Much is Normal Hair Loss Per Day for a Female

Hair loss in females is more common than most people think. In fact, it’s one of the leading causes of stress for females, especially when they are not sure whether it’s a normal shedding pattern or a sign of a more serious issue.

Researchers say that hair shedding is an indispensable part of the hair life cycle. You may notice that your hair sheds more during certain activities, including brushing, showering, or styling. [1]

So, how much is normal hair loss per day for a female? The short answer is between 50 and 100 hair strands. However, the more we dig into this topic, the more complicated it becomes.

This comprehensive guide will discuss everything there is to know about normal hair shedding in females.

The Hair Growth Cycle in a Nutshell

Hair follicles go through a continuous growth cycle that consists of three distinct phases. Each strand on your scalp is in a specific phase, which contributes to the natural process of hair shedding. [2]

Anagen Phase (Growth Phase)

• Duration: 2 to 7 years.
• Characteristics: Hair actively grows approximately 1 cm per month. Additionally, 90% of hair strands are usually in this phase at any given time.
• This is the longest phase. It also determines the length of hair.

Catagen Phase (Transition Phase)

• Duration: 2 to 3 weeks.
• Characteristics: The hair follicle transitions but growth stops. Only 1-2% of hairs are in this phase at any moment.
• This brief phase marks the end of active growth.

Telogen Phase (Resting and Shedding Phase)

• Duration: 3 months.
• Characteristics: Hair rests before it detaches from the follicle and falls out. Up to 8-9% of scalp hair is in this phase under normal conditions.
• Telogen effluvium is a condition where more than 10% of hair enters the telogen phase.

Normal Hair Shedding for Females – What the Numbers Say

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) estimates that it is normal for women to shed 50-100 hairs per day. Although this may seem like a significant amount, it is relatively minor when we consider that the average scalp has 100,000 to 120,000 hair follicles. [2]

Here’s the breakdown of daily hair shedding:

• During brushing – 10-20 hairs.
• During washing – 50-80 hairs (based on frequency).
• Throughout the day – 20-30 hairs (lost naturally due to movement and environmental exposure).

For women with longer or thicker hair, shedding may appear more pronounced due to the visibility of long strands in hairbrushes or on clothing. However, this does not necessarily indicate excessive hair loss.

Factors that Influence Hair Loss in Women

There are numerous factors that influence the rate and visibility of hair shedding in women:

Hair Length and Density

Longer hair tends to be more noticeable when shed. Moreover, women with thick hair may shed more strands but still maintain a full appearance due to higher follicle density.

Hormonal Fluctuations

During pregnancy, elevated estrogen levels prolong the anagen phase, which reduces shedding. The postpartum phase may place the woman in a state of telogen effluvium, which sheds more hair than usual. [3]

Additionally, decreased estrogen levels after menopause can cause female pattern hair loss. The latter is characterised by thinning at the crown and middle parting. [4]

Styling Practices

Frequent use of hot tools weakens hair shafts and increases breakage. What’s more, hair dyeing and bleaching weaken hair structure and may cause it to fall out more easily.

Studies also found that ponytails, braids, or buns can cause traction alopecia. This condition is caused by excessive pulling on the follicles normally in the hairline and temples. [5]

Stress and Health Conditions

• Emotional or physical stress can shift a large percentage of hair into the telogen phase, which causes noticeable shedding. [6]
• Inadequate intake of iron, vitamin D, or protein can weaken hair. [7]
• Thyroid disorders, alopecia areata, and autoimmune diseases are common causes of abnormal patchy hair loss. [8]

When Do You Need To Worry About Hair Shedding?

Although shedding 50-100 hairs daily is considered normal, watch out for the following signs as they may suggest a more serious issue:

Clumps of Hair – Large clumps in the shower or on pillows may indicate a problem.

Bald Spots – Patchy areas on the scalp commonly signal conditions such as alopecia areata.

Widening Hair Parting – A noticeably wider hair parting is a sign of female pattern hair loss.

Thinner Ponytail – If your ponytail feels thinner than usual, it may reflect significant hair thinning.

Self-Test – The Hair Pull Test

To determine if hair loss is excessive, do this rapid test:

1. Start with clean and dry hair.
2. Choose a small section and gently tug it from root to tip.
3. If more than 2-3 hairs come out per tug, it may be a good idea to consult a dermatologist.

Hair Loss in Men versus Women

Men and women experience similar daily hair shedding rates but differ in patterns of hair loss. For example, men are more prone to hereditary hair loss (i.e., male pattern baldness). On the other hand, women shed more during hormonal changes (e.g., pregnancy, menopause). Excessive hair treatments might contribute to higher shedding rates.

How To Prevent Hair Loss

You can take proactive steps can minimise hair loss and promote healthier hair growth. Here are a few examples:

Healthy Lifestyle

• Hydration, balanced nutrition, and regular exercise improve hair health.
• Foods rich in iron, protein, and vitamins (e.g., spinach, eggs, nuts) support strong hair follicles.

Gentle Hair Care

• Use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners to reduce breakage.
• Avoid harsh brushing and opt for wide-toothed combs.

Medical Treatments

• Minoxidil (Regaine) – This drug is effective for female pattern baldness.
• Supplements – Iron and vitamin D correct deficiencies that are linked to thinning hair.
• PRP Therapy – PRP can stimulate growth of hair follicles through platelet-rich plasma injections.

Styling Modifications

• Avoid tight hairstyles and limit the use of hot tools.
• Use protective styles and silk pillowcases to reduce friction and hair tangling.

When to Consult a Doctor About Hair Shedding

Certain conditions may require professional evaluation:

• Persistent shedding that lasts more than 6 months.
• Sudden or patchy hair loss.
• Scalp irritation or visible inflammation.

Dermatologists can diagnose underlying causes and recommend treatments that are personalised to your individual needs.

Conclusion

Normal hair loss for women ranges between 50-100 hairs per day. This is influenced by factors such as hormonal changes, lifestyle habits, and hair care routines. Although hair shedding is a natural part of the hair growth cycle, excessive hair loss signals underlying issues that require attention.

The best way to manage and prevent hair shedding is through proper care, dietary support, and timely medical interventions.

References

1- Martel JL, Miao JH, Badri T, et al. Anatomy, Hair Follicle. [Updated 2024 Jun 22]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-.Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470321/

2- Murphrey MB, Agarwal S, Zito PM. Anatomy, Hair. [Updated 2023 Aug 14]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-.Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK513312/

3- Grymowicz, M., Rudnicka, E., Podfigurna, A., Napierala, P., Smolarczyk, R., Smolarczyk, K., & Meczekalski, B. (2020). Hormonal Effects on Hair Follicles.International journal of molecular sciences,21(15), 5342. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms21155342

4- Chaikittisilpa, S., Rattanasirisin, N., Panchaprateep, R., Orprayoon, N., Phutrakul, P., Suwan, A., & Jaisamrarn, U. (2022). Prevalence of female pattern hair loss in postmenopausal women: a cross-sectional study.Menopause (New York, N.Y.),29(4), 415–420. https://doi.org/10.1097/GME.0000000000001927

5- Kim, H. S., Yang, M. Y., Kim, G. W., Ko, H. C., Kim, B. S., & Kim, M. B. (2019). Braids or Pony-Tail-Associated Traction Alopecia in Female Children.Annals of dermatology,31(1), 117–119. https://doi.org/10.5021/ad.2019.31.1.117

6- Liang, W., Zhao, Y., Cai, B., Huang, Y., Chen, X., Ni, N., Wang, Y., Lin, Z., Lin, C., & Huang, K. (2024). Psychological stress induces hair regenerative disorders through corticotropin-releasing hormone-mediated autophagy inhibition.Biochemical and biophysical research communications,699, 149564. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bbrc.2024.149564

7- Almohanna, H. M., Ahmed, A. A., Tsatalis, J. P., & Tosti, A. (2019). The Role of Vitamins and Minerals in Hair Loss: A Review.Dermatology and therapy,9(1), 51–70. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13555-018-0278-6

8- Aboalola, D., Aouabdi, S., Ramadan, M., Alghamdi, T., Alsolami, M., Malibari, D., & Alsiary, R. (2023). An Update on Alopecia and its Association With Thyroid Autoimmune Diseases.TouchREVIEWS in endocrinology,19(2), 54–59. https://doi.org/10.17925/EE.2023.19.2.10