How to Know if the Amount of Hair You’re Losing is Normal

How Much Hair Loss is Normal?

If you notice a small amount of hair being lost from your head, this is no cause for concern. In fact, everybody loses some hair every single day typically between 50 and 100 hairs.

Your hair goes through a cycle of growth phases and resting phases. The resting, or telogen, phase of your hair cycle is where hair is typically lost. It is completely normal to have some hairs dislodge while washing or brushing your hair, or notice some on your pillow in the morning, but if you notice more hairs than usual, it is worth keeping an eye on.

The degree to which you’re suffering from hair loss can be measured on the Norwood Scale, ranking the severity of your issues and helping prescribers determine the best course of action. Male pattern hair loss usually follows a specific pattern, with the first signs of thinning appearing along the hairline, temples and crown area. It usually progresses slowly, over months or years.

What Causes Hair Loss?

Male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia or AGA) affects 53% of men aged 40-49, and the proportion continues to increase with age. Hair loss is driven by the hormone DHT, a by-product of testosterone, which leads to a process called ‘miniaturisation’. DHT binds to hair follicles, cutting them off from blood supply so hair grows thinner and shorter, until eventually the hair follicle dies completely and no further hair growth occurs in that area. AGA is a hereditary condition, meaning some men are more sensitive to the effects of DHT, which is why hair loss may occur earlier for some.

What Can Be Done if I’m Losing Too Much Hair?

Luckily, you don’t have to accept hair loss. There are two clinically-proven treatments for hair loss, Finasteride and Minoxidil. You can learn more about how these treatments work here. The sooner you act when you notice signs of hair loss, the more you can improve your chances of preventing further hair loss.

If you are ready to start your hair loss journey, take our free consultation for recommendations on the best treatment plan.

All of our blog articles are reviewed for medical accuracy by our Medical Director before publication.

Posted in: All, Finasteride, Hair loss, Minoxidil Journal