Why you might notice more shedding in fall and what curly hair folks can do about it

Autumn arrives and suddenly your shower drain, brush, or pillowcase looks like it’s collecting more hair than usual. Good news: for most people this is normal. Seasonal shifts in hair growth and shedding are well-documented, and for curly hair, the right routine will help you keep strands (and confidence) intact. Here’s what the science says and practical, curl-friendly steps to ride out shedding season.

The science — short and sweet

Human hair cycles through growth (anagen), transition (catagen) and resting/shedding (telogen) phases. Multiple studies have found an annual rhythm to those phases: a higher proportion of hairs enter telogen during late summer, which leads to a visible shedding peak in late summer to early autumn (often August–September). One classic study measured a clear peak in shed hairs around August/September and noted shedding rates that were markedly higher than winter months. (PubMed)

Most experts agree that losing about 50–100 hairs per day is normal; seasonal peaks can make that feel worse but typically it’s temporary. If shedding is sudden, patchy, or continues for months, check with a dermatologist.

Why curly hair may feel like it’s shedding more

Curly and coily hair types are naturally more prone to tangling, dryness, and mechanical breakage because the twists and bends make it harder for scalp oils to travel down the hair shaft. That means when hairs do shed or break, they’re more noticeable (and often shorter or frayed). Repeated manipulation, detangling when dry, heat, and chemical processing add to breakage risk; which can be mistaken for excess shedding.

What’s probably happening this fall

1. Delayed shedding: More hairs entered telogen during summer, so they fall out a few weeks later; around late summer/early autumn.

2. Environmental stressors: UV exposure, chlorine/saltwater and summer styling can weaken strands, making them more likely to break or slide out during combing. 

3. Winter prep (incoming): Dryer air and indoor heating will further dry curls unless moisture is added back in, so start protective habits now.

Curl-first checklist: 9 practical steps to reduce breakage and manage seasonal shedding

1. Treat shedding as normal but watch duration. If extra shedding lasts >3 months or produces thinning, see a dermatologist. Short seasonal spikes usually resolve on their own.

2. Detangle gently, always with slip. Detangle in the shower with conditioner (or a leave-in) using fingers or a wide-tooth, snag-free comb. Start at the ends and work up. Avoid brushing dry curls.

3. Deep condition weekly. A moisturizing mask or protein + moisture rotation strengthens strands and improves elasticity so curls are less likely to break. Use products suited to your porosity.

4. Swap hot showers and heat tools for milder options. Hot water and frequent heat styling dry hair and weaken it; cooler rinses and heat protection minimize damage.

5. Protective styling for sleep and workouts. Pineapple, satin/silk pillowcases, and loose braids reduce friction and tangling that can pull out hair. Tie up with satin scrunchies.

6. Scalp care matters. Keep the scalp healthy with gentle cleansing, occasional scalp massage to stimulate circulation, and avoid harsh sulfates if your curls hate them. A healthy follicle supports new growth.

7. Minimize manipulation. Lower the number of times you comb, manipulate, or re-style between washes — less handling = fewer strands stressed. Use styling methods that stretch curls without tension (banding, twist-outs) if you want length retention. 

8. Mind your nutrition & stress. Balanced protein, iron, vitamin D and zinc levels support hair growth. High stress, illness, or drastic diet changes can trigger more shedding (telogen effluvium). If life’s chaotic, address stress and speak to your healthcare provider about labs.

9. Trim strategically. Regular trims (or dustings) remove brittle ends that lead to breakage; this keeps your hair looking fuller even during shedding seasons.

When to see a pro

Book a visit with a dermatologist or trichologist if you notice:

• Sudden, heavy shedding >100 hairs/day for several weeks

• Patchy bald spots or scalp inflammation

• Rapid, sustained thinning that affects your hairline or crown

Bring photos (progress over weeks), a list of medications, recent illnesses, and a timeline of product changes — this helps with diagnosis.

Final note from Curly Girl Meetup

Seasonal shedding can be unnerving, but for most of us it’s temporary and manageable. Treat your curls with extra gentleness these months: more moisture, less friction, and kinder detangling. If you want, drop a comment below about your fall routine;  we’ll share tips from the CGM community and pro stylists at upcoming workshops. 🍂💛