Founder of Tuhi Clinic, Dr Bhavjit Kaur, said winter hair fall and seasonal shedding are often mistaken for the same issue, though they differ in cause. “Seasonal shedding is a normal physiological phenomenon, with studies showing increased shedding at the end of summer and early autumn, while hair shedding is usually lowest in late winter,” she explained, noting that factors like daylight and temperature influence this cycle.
She clarified that “winter hair fall is not a distinct medical condition” and is often perceived due to low humidity, indoor heating and scalp dryness, which lead to hair fragility and breakage rather than true shedding from the follicle. Styling habits, frequent washing and chemical treatments can further worsen the problem, especially in women. “Both conditions are different from telogen effluvium, which is a pathological hair loss triggered by stress, illness or nutritional deficiencies,” she added.
Dr Manav Bawa explained that seasonal shedding and winter-related hair fall are often confused but have different causes. “Seasonal shedding is a normal, temporary cycle in which more hairs enter the resting phase, usually noticed in autumn and early winter, and it corrects itself within a few months,” he said. “Winter hair fall, on the other hand, is largely driven by environmental and lifestyle factors such as cold weather, dry indoor heating, reduced sunlight, and dietary changes.”
He noted that dry winter air can “strip moisture from the scalp and hair shaft, making hair brittle and prone to breakage,” while lower sun exposure may reduce vitamin D levels that support healthy hair growth. Tight headwear and less frequent washing can also contribute to scalp irritation.
“Keeping the scalp healthy supports the hair growth cycle”
Advising on managing hair fall, Dr Bhavjit Kaur said, “Maintaining good nutrition, gentle scalp care and minimising heat styling are key.” She added, “Seasonal shedding is self-limiting, while winter-related hair fall can usually be controlled by improving scalp health and hair care practices.”
Similarly, Dr Manav Bawa emphasised the importance of scalp health and nutrition, saying, “Prioritising scalp health with gentle cleansing, exfoliation, and nourishing products is essential, along with proper nutrition, including protein, iron, omega-3s, and vitamin D.” He also cautioned that people should seek medical advice if hair fall is “sudden, excessive, patchy, or persists beyond three to four months,” as this could indicate an underlying issue.
Adding a pharmacist’s perspective, Shabir Daya, co-founder of Victoria Health, explained that hair loss is commonly caused by “hormonal changes, winter dryness, or natural seasonal hair fall,” each with different triggers and treatments. He noted that winter hair fall happens when “cold, dry air and indoor heating reduce scalp moisture, making hair brittle and prone to breakage.” To manage this, he advised “hydrating the scalp with warm oil massages such as coconut oil and ensuring adequate omega-3 intake through diet or supplements.” For seasonal shedding, Daya highlighted that “keeping the scalp healthy and nourished supports the hair growth cycle,” adding that black seed oil is a popular option. He also cautioned that “hair falling out in clumps, sudden bald patches, severe itching or burning, or hair loss lasting longer than 12 weeks” should be checked by a GP, as these are not typical signs of winter or seasonal hair loss.
