Why am I losing my hair?

If you've been searching "Why is my hair falling out?" online this year, you're in good company. It was actually the top beauty question searched in 2024. As a stylist, I've noticed an increase in clients worried about hair shedding and thinning.

It's typical to lose around 50 to 100 hairs daily, but if you're experiencing significant shedding, it might be your body's subtle warning sign. Let's explore the most frequent causes I encounter and discuss how you can maintain healthy hair.

⸻1. RAPID WEIGHT LOSS + MEDICATIONS

Ozempic. Semaglutide. Wegovy. The Skinny Shot.

These weight loss tools are increasingly popular—but with rapid weight loss comes a few side effects. One of them? Hair loss.

Here’s why:

• Nutritional Gaps: Losing weight quickly often means you’re not getting enough essential nutrients like biotin, iron, and zinc—all vital for strong hair. Protein intake also matters.

• Telogen Effluvium: This is temporary hair loss triggered by major physical changes, causing more hair follicles to enter the “resting” (shedding) phase.

• Hormonal Shifts: Medications like Semaglutide can affect insulin and hormone levels, which may disrupt the hair growth cycle.

👉 The good news? This type of hair loss is usually temporary. Keep your nutrition balanced, drink your water, take your vitamins, and hit your protein goals.

⸻2. HORMONAL CHANGES

Hormones can seriously impact your hair. For women especially, life changes like pregnancy, postpartum, and menopause can cause shifts in estrogen and progesterone that mess with your follicles.

• Pregnancy/Postpartum: You may notice fuller hair during pregnancy, then sudden shedding afterward. Totally normal!

• Thyroid Issues: Both hypo and hyperthyroidism affect metabolism and hair growth.

• Menopause: Lower estrogen means more androgens (male hormones), often leading to thinning at the crown or temples.

🩺 What to do?

• Talk to your doctor about thyroid panels or HRT options.

• Use Minoxidil (FDA-approved for hair regrowth).

• Supplement with biotin, vitamin D, iron, and omega-3s.

• Try to manage stress and treat your scalp with love.

⸻3. STRESS (Yes, Really.)

Stress-related hair loss is real—and it’s more common than people realize. Chronic stress raises cortisol levels, which affects the balance of hormones that control your hair cycle. It can even trigger Alopecia Areata, where the immune system attacks hair follicles, causing sudden patches of hair loss.

🧘‍♀️ Solutions?

• Mindfulness or meditation

• Daily movement

• Scalp massage or treatments

• Prioritizing rest and hydration

⸻How to Support Hair Health Holistically

No matter the cause, supporting hair from the inside out is key:

✅ Eat a nutrient-rich, protein-heavy diet

✅ Hydrate like it’s your job

✅ Reduce heat and harsh styling

✅ Use sulfate-free, gentle hair products

✅ Book a scalp detox or treatment

✅ When in doubt, talk to a pro

⸻Final Thoughts

Hair loss is complex—but not hopeless. It’s often a sign your body is adjusting or asking for support. Whether it’s stress, hormones, or medication, you’re not alone.

I’m here to help you navigate it, with empathy, education, and the right products. ✨

Got questions? Let’s chat. Book a consultation or DM me on @RheaOfBeauty.

We’re in this together—from root to tip. 💇🏽‍♀️