Hair fall: normal shedding, stress shedding and hair loss
How much hair fall is normal, why shedding often follows illness or childbirth, the main types of hair loss and when to see a dermatologist.
2 min read · Updated 2026-11-14
Some fall is normal
Hair grows in cycles. At any time, most hairs are growing and a small share are resting before they shed. So some hair on the brush or in the shower drain is normal, especially on wash days.
Stress shedding: telogen effluvium
A sudden rise in shedding often appears two to three months after a shock to the body: high fever, illness, surgery, childbirth, crash dieting or great stress. Many hairs enter the resting phase together and then fall out together. Dermatologists call this telogen effluvium. It thins hair evenly rather than creating bald patches, and it usually settles once the trigger has passed.
When it is something else
- Gradual thinning with a widening parting (common in women) or a receding hairline (common in men) suggests hereditary hair loss.
- Smooth, round bald patches suggest alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition.
- Scaling, redness or broken hairs may be a scalp infection.
- Tight hairstyles worn for years can cause traction hair loss along the hairline.
Check the basics
Iron deficiency, thyroid problems, very low-protein diets and some medicines can all cause hair fall. A doctor can test for these.
Where hair oils fit
Regular oiling with herbs such as bhringraj, amla and brahmi is a lovely ritual that conditions hair and reduces breakage. It is not a treatment for medical hair loss. If you are worried, see a dermatologist early; most causes can be helped.
This guide is general information, not medical advice.
Questions
How many hairs do people lose a day?
Dermatologists often say 50 to 100 hairs a day is normal, with more on wash days.
Why did my hair fall out after a fever?
Illness, high fever, surgery or childbirth can push many hairs into the resting phase at once. They shed a few months later. This is called telogen effluvium and usually improves on its own.
Can iron or thyroid problems cause hair fall?
Yes. Iron deficiency and thyroid disease are common causes. A doctor can test for them.
Do hair oils stop hair fall?
Oiling can reduce breakage and keep hair conditioned, but it does not treat hormonal, autoimmune or medical causes of hair loss.
Sources
This guide is general information about traditional and natural care. It is not medical advice. For a skin, scalp or health condition, speak to a dermatologist or qualified practitioner.
