If you’ve noticed more hair collecting in your shower drain lately, you’re experiencing something completely normal – and fixable. Seasonal hair loss affects millions of people, especially as we transition into fall and winter. Before you start worrying that something’s seriously wrong, let me explain what’s happening and how the right products can make a real difference.

Your hair follows a natural growth cycle with three distinct phases: anagen (growth), catagen (transition), and telogen (resting). The telogen phase is when hair rests in your follicles for two to four months before naturally shedding to make room for new growth.

Research published in the British Journal of Dermatology found that human hair follows seasonal patterns, with the highest proportion of telogen hairs occurring during summer months. This means that by late summer and early fall – particularly August through October – you’ll experience increased shedding as all those resting hairs release at once.

According to dermatological studies, this pattern likely evolved as a protective mechanism. Your body retains more hair during peak UV months to shield your scalp from sun damage. Once fall arrives and UV exposure decreases, your body releases those protective hairs, resulting in the noticeable shedding you’re seeing.

Stress compounds the issue significantly. The American Academy of Dermatology explains that physical or emotional stress can push hair follicles into the telogen phase prematurely, a condition called telogen effluvium. Between back-to-school routines, work pressures, and approaching holidays, autumn stress can trigger additional hair loss beyond normal seasonal patterns.

The encouraging news? The right hair care products and routine can significantly reduce shedding and help your hair look fuller and healthier.