Hair care in autumn: how to stop seasonal hair loss

Autumn is a transitional season that affects both the body and the hair. It's common to notice more intense hair loss during these weeks, which often causes concern. However, this seasonal shedding is a natural process that's part of the hair renewal cycle. Understanding why it happens and how to care for your hair during this period is key to maintaining strong, healthy, and vibrant hair.

Why does more hair fall out in autumn?

Each hair has its own life cycle, composed of three phases: growth (anagen), rest (catagen), and shedding (telogen). Naturally, we lose between 50 and 100 hairs every day. However, in autumn many people experience more significant hair loss due to biological and environmental factors.

During the summer, the scalp is exposed to the sun, chlorine, sea salt, and heat, which weakens the hair follicle. In addition, hormonal changes associated with sunlight and oxidative stress accelerate the hair's transition to the shedding phase. Therefore, when autumn arrives, we notice more visible hair loss that can last between four and six weeks.

Other factors that can worsen hair loss include stress, lack of rest, an unbalanced diet or nutritional deficiencies (such as iron, zinc or B vitamins), as well as excessive use of hair dryers or straighteners.

How to care for your hair during seasonal hair loss

Although autumn hair loss is temporary, it's important to adopt a care routine that helps strengthen the roots and improve the quality of new hair. These are the most recommended steps:

1. Use specific anti-hair loss treatments

Hair treatments formulated to stop hair loss and stimulate growth are the first step in protecting hair during this time.

There are different options depending on the type of hair loss (seasonal, chronic, or stress-related). The most effective ones usually include active ingredients such as biotin, caffeine, aminexil, Serenoa repens, or plant peptides, which strengthen the follicle and prolong the growth phase.

Recommendations available at the pharmacy:

• Phyto Phytocyane Caps: ideal for women, improves density and shine.

• Ducray Neoptide: promotes hair anchoring and stimulates growth in persistent hair loss.

• Holistic for Women / for Men: a comprehensive treatment that combines vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and natural extracts.

2. Strengthen nutrition from within

A balanced diet is essential for healthy hair. Hair needs protein, iron, zinc, magnesium, and B vitamins to grow strong and resilient. If your diet is inadequate or you're going through a period of increased stress, it may be advisable to consider specific supplements.

Some examples of effective supplements are Olistic, Iraltone Boost, Lambdapil Hair Density or Priorin, all formulated with essential nutrients to keep hair in good condition and stimulate its regeneration.

3. Massage the scalp

A simple gesture like a daily scalp massage can make all the difference. Massages stimulate blood circulation, improve oxygen supply to the follicles, and promote the absorption of applied products. You can perform them with your fingertips while washing your hair or with a scalp massage brush.

4. Avoid excessive heat and tight hairstyles

Extreme heat damages hair fibers, dries out the scalp, and weakens the roots. Reduce your use of flat irons, curling irons, and hair dryers, or use a heat protectant before applying heat. It's also important to avoid overly tight hairstyles (such as ponytails or buns), as these can create traction and contribute to hair loss due to mechanical stress.

5. Take care of your scalp

A healthy scalp is the foundation of strong hair. Maintain good hair hygiene by using gentle shampoos that respect the balance of the scalp's microbiome. Alternate an anti-hair loss shampoo with a more neutral or frequent-use shampoo to avoid overstimulating the scalp.

If you experience flaking, excess oil, or itching, consult your pharmacist to choose the most suitable product for your situation.

Common mistakes to avoid

• The misconception that frequent hair washing causes hair loss is a myth. In reality, the frequency of washing does not influence hair loss, and keeping the scalp clean is beneficial.

• Avoid overusing harsh products or those with strong sulfates, which can irritate and sensitize the skin.

• Neglecting hair hydration. Dry, brittle hair breaks easily, giving the false impression of increased hair loss.

• Stopping treatment too soon. Hair treatments usually need at least three months of continuous use to show visible results.

When to see a specialist

If you notice hair loss persisting for more than two months, or if there is a noticeable loss of density or bald patches, it's advisable to consult a dermatologist or a specialist pharmacist. Some hair loss can have a hormonal, autoimmune, or nutritional deficiency origin, and it's important to rule out these causes to determine the most appropriate treatment.

Hair loss in autumn is a natural process, but it shouldn't be ignored. With a consistent routine, the right products, and a holistic approach that combines topical care, nutrition, and healthy habits, hair can recover with strength and shine.

At Farmacia Paseo del Mar, we help you find the most effective treatment based on your type of hair loss and your needs. Our team can advise you on which products, supplements, and routines are best suited to your hair so it looks healthy all year round.

Taking care of your hair is also a way of taking care of your well-being. And the best time to start is today.