Hair shedding in autumn is a common phenomenon that raises concern for both men and women. Finding strands on the brush or pillow can trigger fear of permanent baldness, but in most cases, it is a physiological and temporary condition.
Understanding the causes and applying evidence-based strategies is the first step in protecting hair health.
Why Do More Hairs Fall in Autumn?
Hair follows a natural growth cycle with three phases:
- Anagen (growth) – Lasts 2–6 years, during which keratin is actively produced.
- Catagen (transition) – About 2–3 weeks, when the follicle begins to shrink.
- Telogen (rest and shedding) – Lasts 2–4 months, after which the hair falls out.
A study by the University of Zurich, published in the British Journal of Dermatology (2017), showed that the percentage of hairs in the telogen phase increases during autumn. Key hypotheses include:
- Reduced daylight (photoperiod): Affects hormones such as melatonin and prolactin, which regulate the hair cycle.
- Summer oxidative stress: UV exposure, saltwater, chlorine, and high temperatures damage the hair bulb, causing delayed shedding.
- Scalp microinflammation: Oxidative stress alters the cutaneous microbiota and promotes low-grade inflammation, accelerating entry into telogen.
Duration of Autumn Hair Loss
Hair shedding typically lasts 6–10 weeks, peaking from late September to October. In predisposed individuals, it may continue until December. Dermatologists and trichologists recommend monitoring the condition: persistent shedding beyond three months or visible thinning warrants investigation of other causes.
Peak Month: September–October
Trichoscopic analyses show that hair loss increases in September and October, coinciding with changes in temperature and photoperiod. Individual variability is wide: some notice onset in late August, others as late as November.
“I’m Losing Too Much Hair—Should I Worry?”
Normal daily hair shedding ranges from 50–100 hairs. Red flags indicating the need for a dermatological evaluation include:
- Visible thinning at the temples or vertex
- Bald patches (alopecia areata)
- Significant itching, pain, or flaking
- Sudden, massive hair loss (>150 hairs/day) persisting for more than 6 weeks
Recommended laboratory tests: Ferritin, vitamin D, TSH, FT4, complete blood count, and sex hormones (estrogens, androgens).

Medical Conditions Causing Persistent Hair Loss
Not all hair shedding is seasonal. Persistent hair loss may be associated with underlying medical conditions, including:
- Androgenetic alopecia: More common in men, but also affects women.
- Chronic telogen effluvium due to stress or medications (retinoids, anticoagulants, chemotherapy).
- Autoimmune disorders such as alopecia areata or systemic lupus erythematosus.
- Thyroid dysfunction: Hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.
- Iron-deficiency anemia.
Hair Loss in Women
In women, hair shedding can be amplified by:
- Hormonal fluctuations: Pregnancy, postpartum period, perimenopause.
- Use or discontinuation of oral contraceptives.
- Nutritional deficiencies: Iron, vitamin D, zinc.
A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (2021) shows that declining estrogen levels increase follicle sensitivity to androgens, accelerating miniaturization.
Hair Loss in Men
In men, androgenetic alopecia often coexists with seasonal shedding. Genetic predisposition and heightened sensitivity to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) lead to progressive follicle miniaturization. The natural increase in telogen hairs during autumn can visibly amplify hair loss.
Evidence-Based Strategies to Counteract Hair Loss
Targeted Nutrition
- High-quality protein (lean meats, fish, legumes) to support keratin production.
- Minerals such as iron, zinc, selenium, and copper, essential for collagen and keratin synthesis.
- Vitamins B, D, and E, powerful antioxidants that protect follicles.
- Stress reduction
Elevated cortisol impairs microcirculation and promotes telogen effluvium. Techniques like yoga, meditation, and moderate physical activity have demonstrated benefits. - Topical Treatments and Gentle Hair Care
Use physiological pH shampoos, avoiding overly frequent washing and harsh products.
Lotions with biomimetic peptides or growth factors can support the anagen phase (under medical supervision). - Targeted Supplements
Randomized controlled trials confirm the efficacy of supplements containing:
Biotin, Sulfur-containing amino acids (cystine, methionine), Hyaluronic acid, Hydrolyzed collagen, Antioxidants
Key Supplement for Hair Loss: Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid, known for maintaining skin hydration, is also crucial for scalp health:
- Supports the extracellular matrix that sustains hair follicles.
- Improves microcirculation.
- Maintains a nutrient-rich, hydrated environment essential for the anagen phase.

OSIDRA: Sublingual Innovation for Skin and Hair
Among next-generation supplements, OSIDRA stands out as a therapeutic system based on high-concentration hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid, designed to nourish and regenerate from within.
Unique Features of OSIDRA
- Dual molecular weight (5:1 ratio)
- High molecular weight (2 million Da): Does not penetrate the tissue but attracts water, providing intense hydration and preserving dermal elastoviscosity.
- Low molecular weight (40 kDa): Penetrates deep tissues, binds CD44 receptors on fibroblasts, stimulating the production of new hyaluronic acid, collagen, and elastin.
- Sublingual absorption with 100% bioavailability
Hydrolyzation breaks down HA chains, making it fully absorbable and allowing rapid delivery to skin, mucosa, and hair follicles.
What Are the Benefits for the Scalp and Hair?
- Deep hydration of the dermis and follicular microenvironment.
- Support for the extracellular matrix, essential for healthy hair follicles.
- Indirect antioxidant action, reducing oxidative stress that accelerates the telogen phase.
There is substantial scientific evidence supporting the benefits of hyaluronic acid for hair:
- Gariboldi et al., 2008: documents the stimulation of keratinocytes and the production of beta-defensin, with antimicrobial and reparative effects.
- Necas et al., 2008: confirms HA’s ability to promote restitutio ad integrum of tissues and dermal regeneration.
How to maximize OSIDRA’s effect and counteract seasonal hair loss?
Take 1–3 ml per day (5–15 puffs) in 3-month cycles, holding the gel under the tongue for 60 seconds. This administration ensures maximum absorption and a continuous effect.
Thanks to these properties, OSIDRA not only improves skin hydration and firmness but also provides structural support to hair follicles, making it a valuable ally during autumnal hair loss.
Conclusions
Autumn hair loss is a physiological and temporary phenomenon, influenced by hormonal and environmental factors. However, it should not be underestimated: a thorough scalp evaluation, a balanced lifestyle, and supplementation with key nutrients are essential to prevent permanent weakening.
OSIDRA, with its innovative sublingual hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid formulation, provides tangible support: it hydrates from within, stimulates tissue regeneration, and creates optimal conditions for hair health, particularly during the most critical months.
FAQ
Typically 6–10 weeks, peaking between September and October.
Both sexes are affected, but hormonal changes in women can amplify the phenomenon.
If hair loss persists beyond three months, if there are bald patches or noticeable thinning, or if symptoms like intense itching or scalp pain occur.
No. It should be part of a comprehensive approach that includes nutrition, stress management, and dermatological evaluation.