How seasonal changes can cause hair loss
Seasonal changes can affect our bodies in a number of ways, sometimes including hair loss.
The change of seasons brings with it a number of environmental changes that can affect our hair.
Phil Day, Superintendent Pharmacist at Pharmacy2U, shares four ways the change of seasons can lead to hair loss and what you can do about it.
Vitamin D deficiency
During the colder months, many people suffer from vitamin D deficiency due to a lack of sunlight, potentially leading to weaker hair follicles.
"Vitamin D plays a crucial role in supporting hair follicle health and growth. During the winter months, people typically spend less time outdoors, leading to lower levels of vitamin D in their bodies," Phil says. "This deficiency can weaken hair follicles and contribute to hair shedding."
To mitigate this, the expert recommends incorporating vitamin D-rich foods into your diet, or speaking to a healthcare professional about supplements that can help maintain optimal levels during the colder months.
Lack of sunlight
As well as causing vitamin D deficiency, a lack of sunlight can also affect our sleep, which can exacerbate hair loss.
"Shorter daylight hours during winter mean less exposure to natural sunlight, which may disrupt these cycles and exacerbate hair loss," Phil states. "To combat this, try to spend more time outdoors during daylight hours or use light therapy to mimic the effects of natural sunlight."
Cold weather
Cold temperatures can slow down blood flow to the body, including the scalp.
"Cold temperatures can reduce blood circulation to the scalp, which may slow down the delivery of vital nutrients to hair follicles," the pharmacist explains. "Wearing a hat in cold weather can protect your scalp from these temperature drops, and gentle scalp massages can help stimulate blood flow, promoting healthier hair growth."
RELATED: Make these simple routine changes to prevent dry, brittle hair in winter
Dry indoor heat
While cold temperatures are bad for our hair, central heating can also be damaging.
"When people retreat indoors to escape the cold, the dry heat from central heating systems can strip moisture from the scalp and hair," Phil warns. "This dryness can lead to scalp irritation and contribute to hair shedding."
To reduce these effects, the expert advises using a humidifier to prevent your scalp from drying out as well as moisturizing haircare products.
Editorial credit: Cover Media via Reuters Connect. Header image credit: Getty Images/Boy_Anupong.
