Why You Might Be Noticing More Hair in the Shower

Many people feel alarmed when they suddenly see extra strands on their pillow or when brushing their hair. A noticeable increase in shedding can create worry fast. The truth is that not all shedding is a sign of hair loss. At VIDA Dermatology, one of the most common concerns patients bring up during fall and winter appointments is unexpected changes in their hair density. Seasonal shifts, stress and health changes can all influence how much hair you lose each day, and understanding the difference is the key to proper treatment.

What Seasonal Hair Shedding Actually Is

Seasonal shedding is a natural and temporary shift in the hair cycle. The body signals certain hairs to enter a resting phase, and those hairs fall out a few months later. Many people shed more in the fall and late winter because the hair cycle responds to daylight changes and internal rhythms. This type of shedding does not lead to visible thinning and does not damage the follicle. The hair grows back on its own as the cycle resets. Patients at VIDA Dermatology often notice that seasonal shedding feels sudden, but it remains mild and self-correcting.

What Happens in Telogen Effluvium

Telogen effluvium is different. It occurs when a large number of hairs enter the resting phase at the same time. Several months later, this results in a dramatic increase in shedding that can last for weeks or months. Telogen effluvium can be triggered by illness, high stress, hormonal shifts, nutritional deficiencies, childbirth, rapid weight loss or medication changes. The shedding can feel intense and unnerving because it happens quickly and affects larger sections of the scalp. At VIDA Dermatology, telogen effluvium is treated as a medical condition because it requires identifying and addressing the underlying trigger.

How to Tell the Difference

Seasonal shedding is subtle and temporary. The shedding is noticeable but does not create visible gaps or reduced density. Telogen effluvium feels heavier. Patients often describe handfuls of hair coming out at once or noticing clear thinning along the part, temples or crown. While both involve hair falling out, the scale and speed are what separate them. A proper assessment at VIDA Dermatology can determine if you are experiencing a normal cycle shift or a medical form of hair loss that needs intervention.

How VIDA Dermatology Treats Excessive Hair Shedding

Treating shedding begins with understanding the trigger. For seasonal shedding, reassurance and supportive care are often enough. For telogen effluvium, treatment focuses on calming the hair cycle, improving scalp health and correcting the underlying cause. Bloodwork, nutritional support, stress management strategies and medical-grade hair growth products may be recommended. When needed, VIDA Dermatology may also incorporate in-clinic treatments designed to strengthen active follicles and support faster recovery.

Hair often rebounds once the trigger is removed, but professional guidance helps shorten the recovery window and prevents further loss. Early evaluation makes the biggest difference because the hair cycle takes time to reset.

When to See a Dermatologist

If your shedding feels extreme, lasts longer than a few months or is paired with visible thinning, it is time to be assessed. Telogen effluvium is common and highly treatable, but it requires medical insight to confirm. VIDA Dermatology evaluates both the scalp and the full health picture behind it to ensure the treatment plan supports long-term regrowth and stability.

Get Clarity About Your Hair Shedding At VIDA Dermatology

If you are noticing sudden shedding and want to understand what is normal and what is not, the team at VIDA Dermatology can help. Book your consultation today and get a clear plan to protect your hair health.