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Life events · Updated 2026-10-30 · Editorial review in progress
Hair shedding in September? The seasonal shed is real
Also searched as: autumn sheddingfall hair sheddinghair shedding in september
In a UK study of 14 men, shed hairs peaked around August–September at about 60 a day, more than double the preceding winter; a study of 823 women found the proportion of resting (telogen) hairs peaked in summer, with a smaller peak in spring.
No consistent week-by-week window is published for this, so it is not on the calculator.
The seasonal calendar
| Time of year | What studies found |
|---|---|
| March | Follicles in growth (anagen) peaked above 90% [British] |
| Spring | Smaller second peak in resting hairs in women [Dermatology,] |
| Summer | Highest proportion of resting hairs in women [Dermatology,] |
| August–September | Shed hairs peaked: about 60 a day [British] |
| Late winter | Resting-hair rates lowest [Dermatology,] |
These studies were done in the northern hemisphere (Sheffield, UK at 53.4°N for the men's study) [British].
Normal vs. warning signs
- A noticeable increase in late summer and autumn
- Shedding that settles over the winter
- Patches or smooth bald spots
- Scalp pain, redness, burning or scaling
- Loss of eyebrows, eyelashes or body hair
- Shedding far beyond your usual seasonal pattern, or lasting all year
What may help
- Compare with last year — seasonal shedding repeats.
- Check the Shed Clock for any trigger 2–4 months earlier.
- See a professional if it doesn't follow the pattern.
Related triggers
Telogen club hair
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Frequently asked questions
Why is my hair shedding in September?
A UK study found shed hairs peaked around August–September at about 60 a day, more than double winter levels.
Is seasonal hair shedding normal?
Yes. Studies in men and in 823 women have found yearly cycles in hair growth and shedding.
When is hair shedding lowest?
In the 823-woman study, resting-hair rates were lowest in late winter.
Sources
- British Journal of Dermatology, 1991 (PubMed 2003996). Seasonal changes in human hair growth (14 men, Sheffield UK)
- Dermatology, 2009 (PubMed 19407435). Seasonality of hair shedding in healthy women complaining of hair loss (n=823)