Hair loss is normal. In fact, the average person sheds between 50 and 100 strands every single day.
At this time of year, this number may be even higher, with nearly half of UK adults experiencing autumn hair fall – also known as seasonal shedding. So if you've noticed more hair in your brush lately, you're not alone.
Indeed, interest in the condition has recently exploded, with Google searches jumping 393 per cent in just the past month.
This September, hair fall happens when changes in temperature, shifting humidity, and reduced sun exposure disrupt our normal hair cycles.
Most people spot the extra strands when washing or brushing their hair, as UV exposure drops and hair falls out earlier than usual, while regrowth slows down.
Consultant trichologist Samantha Stewart explained that the colder months bring a perfect storm of hair-damaging conditions.
Dry winter air lacks humidity, leaving locks brittle and prone to breakage. The stark contrast with indoor heating further compounds this, while irritated scalps due to weather changes can cause flaking and itching.
Shorter, darker days create another problem; less sunlight means lower vitamin D levels, which hair needs to grow properly.
While not everyone experiences the same degree of shedding, this combination of environmental factors makes hair particularly vulnerable during autumn and winter.
To avoid making things "worse" over the next few months, the trichologist recommended a few lifestyle modifications.
According to Ms Stewart, while slicked-back hairstyles and snug winter hats may be chic, they are doing your strands no good.
Urging women to "avoid tight ponytails or braids", the expert warned that restrictive hairstyles put extra stress on already fragile hair, especially during cold weather when strands are more delicate.
Google searches for seasonal hair loss have jumped 393 per cent in the past month
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The trichologist advised women to avoid tight ponytails and braids this autumn
| GETTYShe also advised ladies to minimise their use of heat styling tools like straighteners and curling irons, as these can exacerbate damage.
"If you must use them, use a heat protectant spray and use them sparingly, as heat can exacerbate dryness and damage," she added.
Winter headwear creates a similar set of problems – hats that fit too tightly or have rough textures cause friction that "tangles hair and leads to breakage".
The trichologist cautioned that some hat materials generate static electricity, leaving hair frizzy and standing on end.
Even worse, wearing hats for long periods traps heat and moisture against the scalp.
This creates a humid environment that can trigger dandruff in people prone to scalp issues, the expert explained.
To mitigate this, Ms Stewart advised choosing hats lined with silk or satin to "reduce friction" and scarves made from cotton, cashmere, or satin to "prevent tangles and frizz".
Further to this, regular washing of winter accessories prevents bacteria buildup that can irritate the scalp.
Advising women to rethink their beauty cabinets, the expert explained that hair needs extra hydration through moisture-locking products, while drinking enough water is also vital for hair and scalp health.
Good nutrition matters too, so stock up on foods that are rich in biotin, vitamin D, zinc, and omega-3s to support healthy hair.
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