Autumn Hair and Scalp Woes

The three most common questions that I am asked about hair and scalp problems when the weather grows cold are:

Question: More hair fall in the Fall?

Answer: I suggest you ask yourself the following question should you notice more fall in the Fall: "Do I have extra hair loss at this time of the year every year?". If the answer is yes, then you probably have what is known as 'seasonal hair loss' and it could be normal for you; however, if the answer is no, or the hair loss is more excessive than usual, then it may be due to other reasons (see my "7 H's of Hair Loss©"). If you think your hair loss is excessive then see a hair loss specialist for a consultation.

Question: More dandruff falling on your shoulders in the Fall?

Answer: This is a very common problem and is often due to weather changes. During the fall the temperature and humidity decrease causing the scalp to lose moisture. This can lead to an increase in scalp flaking and irritation. Sometimes there is also a little flaking and redness long the hair line and in the eyebrows. People with an oily scalp are actually more likely to have this problem. I suggest washing your hair everyday to remove the dandruff build up and to keep the scalp clean, and also to turn your humidifier on at home, especially at night, to help put more moisture in the air.

Question: Limper hair, falling from its curl in the Fall?

Answer: During the summer the hair absorbs moisture from the air and, if it is naturally curly to begin with, will become wavy and have more body (unfortunately, it can also go frizzy and become dull!). When the fall comes, the humidity drops and so less moisture is available causing the hair to go limper. This problem often occurs if your hair is damaged or too dry. I suggest using a conditioner every time you wash your hair and also use a deep conditioning treatment, on a regular basis to trap the correct level of moisture into your hair and so give it more sheen and body throughout the year.