One of the most common concerns I hear from clients with curly hair is about shedding. It can be alarming to see what looks like a lot of hair coming out during a wash, leaving many people wondering if they're experiencing hair loss. But here's the thing—if you’ve ever freaked out over the amount of hair coming out during your wash days, take a deep breath! Shedding is a natural process, and when it comes to curly hair, it often appears more intense than it actually is.
What's Normal Shedding?
On average, people shed between 50 and 100 hairs each day. This is a completely normal part of your hair’s growth cycle. New hairs replace the shed ones, keeping the balance. However, for those of us with curly or coily hair, that shedding doesn’t just fall out throughout the day like it might for someone with straight hair. Instead, those strands often get trapped within our curls, staying on our heads until we detangle or wash.
Why Does Curly Hair Shedding Seem Like So Much?
Here’s where the confusion comes in. Since our shed hairs don’t fall out immediately, by the time wash day comes around, you’re likely releasing several days' worth of shedding all at once. That clump of hair that collects in your brush or hands during detangling might seem like a scary amount, but it’s really just the accumulation of normal shedding over time.
For example, if you wash your hair once a week and shed 100 hairs a day, you could be looking at about 700 hairs in the drain or your brush. That’s perfectly normal, even though it might look like a lot.
How to Tell the Difference Between Normal Shedding and Hair Loss
It’s important to understand the difference between normal shedding and true hair loss. Normal shedding will typically involve hairs that are longer with a small white bulb at the root, indicating that they’ve completed their growth cycle. Hair loss, on the other hand, is usually more noticeable as excessive thinning or balding in specific areas of the scalp. If you’re seeing significant thinning, patches of hair missing, or more shedding than usual over a long period, it may be time to consult a professional.
How to Manage Curly Hair Shedding
Here are some tips for managing curly hair shedding and keeping your curls healthy:
Moisturize and strengthen: Curly hair is naturally drier, so make sure to keep it moisturized and use strengthening treatments to maintain healthy curls. A balanced routine of deep conditioning and protein treatments will keep your hair strong.
Wash day routine: When you’re ready to wash your hair, be gentle. Don’t panic if you see hair in the drain. Remember, it’s most likely just the accumulated shedding from the days between washes.
Use the Right Tools: The tools you use to detangle and manage your curls can make a big difference in reducing unnecessary breakage and making detangling easier. A gentle brush, like the Felicia Leatherwood Brush With The Best or a Wet Brush, is designed specifically for curly and textured hair. These brushes help distribute tension more evenly and reduce pulling or snagging, making them ideal for removing shed hairs without causing extra breakage.
Pre-Detangle with a Curl Primer: Prepping your hair before detangling is essential for curly textures. A product like TreLuxe Aloe Vera Curl Primer can be a game-changer. This primer helps to soften the hair and adds slip, making it easier to detangle your curls with minimal stress. Simply apply it before detangling to give your strands the moisture and glide they need to allow brushes or combs to pass through effortlessly.
By using the right tools and products, you’ll not only reduce unnecessary shedding and breakage but also make your curly hair care routine more manageable and enjoyable!
Final Thoughts
Shedding is a natural part of hair growth, and for curly girls, it can seem more dramatic due to how our curls hold onto those shed strands. As long as you’re not seeing excessive thinning or patches, it’s likely just normal shedding, not hair loss. Embrace your curls and care for them, and you’ll see they’re just as full and healthy as ever!
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Below is a list of suggested brushes for all curly hair types:
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Ja’Nera Nicole is a passionate and skilled hairstylist dedicated to empowering her clients through the art of hair. With a deep understanding of the natural hair journey, she is committed to helping individuals embrace their unique textures and enhance their natural beauty. Ja’Nera’s approach is not just about styling; it’s about education and transformation. She believes in the power of healthy hair practices and is known for her honest, supportive guidance, ensuring that each client feels confident and beautiful in their own skin. Her expertise and dedication make her a trusted figure in the world of natural hair care. If you are in the Atlanta area and would like to schedule an appointment with Ja’Nera, you can do so here.
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