Why Your Hair May Be Shedding More As Fall & Winter Approach (and What You Can Do About It)
As the leaves change and the air cools, many of us notice something else changing too: more hair in the brush, more on the shower drain, more loose strands around the pillows. That seasonal shedding is common, but that doesn't mean you have to just accept it. With thoughtful care (especially from a salon built on clean beauty and scalp health), you can support your hair through the seasonal shift.
In this post, we’ll explore:
Why fall and winter often trigger more hair shedding
What factors make shedding worse (especially in a polluted, dry climate)
Clean, scalp-first strategies to help reduce seasonal hair loss
When salon-level support and treatments (including what Clean Beauty Boutique offers) can help
Why Shedding Increases in Fall & Winter
1. Natural Hair Growth Cycles & Seasonality
Hair growth follows cycles: anagen (active growth), catagen (transition), telogen (rest), then shedding. Many dermatologists observe that in autumn, a larger proportion of hairs move into telogen, triggering more shedding. It’s a natural adaptation. You’re not necessarily “losing hair forever,” many of these will regrow.
2. Environmental Stressors
As temperatures drop:
Indoor heating dries out the air (and scalp), which can lead to brittle strands and breakage.
Colder weather often leads to more hats, scarves, friction, and static all of which stress hair shafts.
Central heating removes humidity, making hair more fragile.
3. Lifestyle & Nutritional Factors
Less sunlight → lower Vitamin D (which plays a role in hair health)
Seasonal diets often shift (less fresh produce)
More layering, friction, and accessory use (like beanies)
Stress of holiday season can exacerbate shedding
4. Scalp & Build-up Issues
In fall, you might be less inclined to rinse sweat or refresh hair as often; build-up from products or environmental pollutants can suffocate follicles. A scalp that’s not breathing well is less able to support healthy hair growth.
What You Can Do Now (At Home & In Salon)
Here are clean, low-tox, scalp-centered strategies to help reduce excessive seasonal shedding:
At Home (Your Daily & Weekly Rituals)
Switch to a gentle, clean shampoo / cleanser
Use sulfate-free, low-tox shampoos that truly cleanse without stripping essential oils. Avoid harsh chemical detergents and sulfates that can shock the scalp. Shop our favorite products here.Scalp exfoliation & gentle massage
A light exfoliating scrub (or scalp brush used gently) once weekly helps slough off buildup. Combine this with 3–5 minute scalp massage during washing to boost circulation.Hydrate & nourish your scalp
Use a lightweight, clean scalp serum or oil to support barrier health (jasmine, jojoba, squalane are good examples). Always apply to scalp, not just to hair lengths.Limit heat, tension & friction
Use wide-tooth combs, silk pillowcases, soft hair ties
When styling, keep heat tools at lower temps
Let hair air dry when possible
Lifestyle / Nutritional Support
Maintain protein intake, iron, zinc, omega-3s, and vitamins (especially D, B vitamins)
Stay hydrated
Manage stress (yoga, walks, meditation)
Consider speaking with a nutritionist if underlying causes are suspected
Rotate / limit heavy product use
Especially in dry months, heavy masks, oils, silicones can weigh hair down or clog follicles. Use them strategically, not daily.
When to Consider Salon-Level Support, Services at Clean Beauty Boutique
Sometimes, seasonal shedding is more than just a thing you “ride out.” That’s where professional care comes in, especially with a salon focused on scalp health and clean protocols. At Clean Beauty Boutique, here are services (and additions) you can lean into:
Scalp & Hair Health / Treatment Services
We offer scalp treatments designed to rebalance, detox, and stimulate the scalp for shedding, dryness, or thinning concerns.
Protocols may include detox exfoliation, oxygenation, nutrient infusions, massage, and clean serums tailored to your scalp.Hair Extensions & Custom Density Enhancements
If shedding has thinned your hair, hand-tied, tape-in, or fusion extensions can add density while blending with your natural growth. (Extensions are a core specialty at our salon, click here to book your consultation.)Clean / Low-Tox Product Recommendations
We carry an array of targeted formulas for hair loss prevention. Click here to shop.Micro Stimulating Shampoo
Vivifying Remedy Spray
Densifying Remedy Spray
Pure Plenty Shampoo (DHT inhibiting)
Pure Plenty Nourishing Scalp Serum
Diagnostic Consultations
A consultation allows stylists to assess your scalp, hair strength, and history, and to build a personalized seasonal hair health plan.
When to See a Specialist / Dermatologist
If shedding is sudden, patchy, or accompanied by pain, redness, or scalp scarring, or if you see bald patches, it's wise to consult a dermatologist or trichologist. Seasonal shedding is normal, but underlying medical conditions (thyroid, hormonal shifts, alopecia) must be ruled out.
Clean Beauty Boutique’s services can support scalp optimization and hair density, but they’re complementary (not a replacement) for medical evaluation where appropriate.
Final Thoughts
Seasonal shedding doesn’t have to be a helpless “it is what it is” experience. With a clean, scalp-first approach, thoughtful at-home routines, targeted product use, and smart salon support. You can move through fall and winter with more confidence in your hair health.
