Understanding the Natural Hair Growth Cycle: Shedding vs Breakage
Every time you see hair in your brush or shower drain, you may wonder: “Am I losing too much?” It’s a valid concern. But not all hair loss is the same. Shedding is a natural part of the hair growth cycle, while breakage signals that something’s wrong. Understanding the difference is key to building a routine that supports growth and minimizes damage.
The Hair Growth Cycle BasicsYour hair grows in cycles with distinct phases:
-
Anagen (Growth Phase): Lasts 2–7 years. This is when hair actively grows from the root.
-
Catagen (Transition Phase): Lasts about 2 weeks. Growth stops, and the follicle shrinks.
-
Telogen (Resting Phase): Lasts about 3 months. Hair detaches but stays in place.
-
Exogen (Shedding Phase): Hair falls out and is replaced by a new strand.
What Is Normal Shedding?
-
Losing 50–100 hairs per day is normal for most people.
-
Shedding increases with stress, postpartum, seasonal changes, or protective styles.
-
Shed hairs typically have a white bulb at the end—that’s the root.
What Is Breakage?
-
Breakage is when hair snaps mid-strand due to weakness, dryness, or damage.
-
Breakage is NOT part of the normal cycle.
-
Broken strands are short, uneven, and don’t have a bulb.
Common Causes of Breakage:
-
Excess heat or chemical treatments
-
Over-manipulation and tight styles
-
Protein/moisture imbalance
-
Lack of protective night routines (cotton pillowcases, dry edges)
How to Minimize Breakage and Support Growth:
-
Moisturize Consistently: Dry hair breaks. Hydrate with water-based products and seal with oil.
-
Protein Balance: Too much or too little protein weakens the hair shaft. Alternate based on your hair’s needs.
-
Protective Styling (Done Right): Not too tight, not too long. Let your scalp breathe.
-
Sleep Smart: Use satin bonnets, scarves, or pillowcases.
-
Detangle Gently: Use fingers or wide-tooth combs—never rush or yank.
When to See a Specialist:
-
If you’re losing clumps of hair or see visible thinning
-
If shedding lasts longer than 2–3 months with no change
-
A trichologist or dermatologist can run scalp assessments and blood work
FAQs
Q: How can I tell if it’s shedding or breakage?
A: Check the strand. If it has a white bulb = shedding. If it’s mid-strand or frayed = breakage.
Q: Is shedding always bad?
A: No! It’s part of the hair growth cycle. You just don’t want excessive or prolonged shedding.
Q: Can postpartum shedding be prevented?
A: Not fully, but gentle care, low manipulation, and scalp massages can support regrowth.
Not all hair loss is created equal. Once you understand how your natural hair grows—and when it naturally sheds—you can stop stressing and start protecting. Tracking patterns and caring intentionally can help you retain length and strengthen your strands with confidence.
Designed by HelloFlows.