Many people notice that their hair starts falling more during the winter season. You may see extra strands on your pillow, in the shower, or while combing. This can be worrying, but the good news is — winter hair fall is very common, and it can be controlled easily with the right care.

In this blog, we explain why winter causes more hair fall and how you can stop it with simple, dermatologist-approved tips.

Why Does Hair Fall Increase in Winter?

Winter weather affects your hair and scalp in many ways. Here are the main reasons hair fall increases during this season:

1. Dry and Cold Air

Winter air has very little moisture, which makes the scalp dry.
 A dry scalp leads to:

• Itching
  
  
• Flakes
  
  
• Weak hair roots
  
  
• Hair breakage
  
  

When the scalp loses moisture, the hair strand becomes fragile and falls easily.

2. Hot Showers

Most people take hot showers during winter.
 However, hot water strips natural oils from your scalp, making it even drier.
 This can lead to:

• Dandruff
  
  
• Roughness
  
  
• Hair breakage
  
  
• Hair fall
  
  

Warm water is fine, but very hot water can trigger heavy hair shedding.

3. Less Scalp Blood Circulation

Cold weather naturally reduces blood circulation in the scalp.
 When the scalp gets less blood flow:

• Hair follicles get less oxygen
  
  
• Hair becomes weaker
  
  
• Growth slows down
  
  

This makes hair fall more noticeable in winter.

4. Winter Diet Changes

During winter, people often eat:

• More fried foods
  
  
• Sugary snacks
  
  
• Less water
  
  
• Fewer fruits and vegetables
  
  

These habits can also lead to nutrient deficiency, which affects hair strength.

Lack of iron, Vitamin D, zinc, and protein can increase hair fall.

5. Increased Use of Hair Styling Tools

In winter, many people use:

• Hair dryers
  
  
• Straighteners
  
  
• Curlers
  
  

These tools remove moisture from hair and damage the hair cuticle, leading to breakage and hair fall.

6. Friction from Winter Clothing

Wearing scarves, sweaters, hoodies, and wool caps can cause friction on the hair, especially near the roots.
 This friction weakens hair strands and increases hair shedding.

How to Stop Winter Hair Fall: Simple & Effective Tips

The good news is that winter hair fall is temporary and can be controlled with the right care. Follow these dermatologist-recommended tips:

1. Keep Your Scalp Moisturized

A dry scalp is the biggest reason for winter hair fall.

What to do:

• Oil your hair once or twice a week
  
  
• Use lightweight oils like coconut, almond, or argan oil
  
  
• Warm the oil slightly for better absorption
  
  

Moisturizing your scalp keeps hair roots healthy and prevents breakage.

2. Use a Gentle Shampoo

Harsh shampoos can make the scalp even drier.

Choose shampoos that are:

• Sulfate-free
  
  
• Mild
  
  
• Hydrating
  
  

Also, avoid overwashing your hair. Twice a week is enough for most people.

3. Condition Regularly

Conditioner helps lock moisture and prevents dryness.
 Apply conditioner from mid-length to ends, not the scalp.

For extra care, use a:

• Deep-conditioning mask (once a week)
  
  
• Leave-in conditioner
  
  

This keeps hair soft and reduces breakage.

4. Avoid Hot Water

Use lukewarm water instead of hot water.

Hot water damages your scalp barrier and makes hair weak.

5. Reduce Heat Styling

Try to air-dry your hair whenever possible.

If you must use a hair dryer:

• Use the cool or medium setting
  
  
• Always use a heat protectant spray
  
  

This protects hair cuticles from heat damage.

6. Eat a Hair-Friendly Diet

Your hair needs nutrients to stay strong.

Include foods rich in:

• Protein (eggs, chicken, dals)
  
  
• Omega-3 (walnuts, flax seeds, fish)
  
  
• Iron (spinach, beetroot)
  
  
• Vitamin D (sunlight, mushrooms)
  
  
• Zinc (pumpkin seeds, peanuts)
  
  

Also, drink plenty of water, even in winter.

7. Treat Dandruff Quickly

Winter often brings dandruff due to scalp dryness.

Dandruff can block hair follicles and cause hair fall.

Use:

• Anti-dandruff shampoo
  
  
• Scalp serums
  
  
• Moisturizing scalp lotion (if dryness is high)
  
  

If dandruff does not improve, consult a dermatologist for better treatment.

8. Protect Your Hair From Winter Clothes

Wool and cotton fabrics cause friction.

To prevent this:

• Line your caps with silk or satin
  
  
• Use a silk scarf underneath wool shawls
  
  
• Sleep on a silk pillowcase
  
  

This reduces hair breakage and friction.

9. Try Dermatologist-Recommended Hair Treatments

If winter hair fall is severe, professional treatments can help faster.

Dermatologists may suggest:

• PRP therapy
  
  
• GFC therapy
  
  
• Exosome therapy
  
  
• Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)
  
  
• Nutritional correction
  
  
• Scalp treatments
  
  

These strengthen hair follicles and improve hair growth naturally.

When Should You See a Dermatologist?

Visit a dermatologist if you notice:

• Hair fall lasting more than 6–8 weeks
  
  
• Bald patches
  
  
• Sudden hair shedding
  
  
• Severe dandruff
  
  
• Scalp itching or redness
  
  
• Hair thinning near the hairline
  
  

Early treatment prevents long-term hair loss.

Conclusion

Hair fall during winter is very common and usually temporary.
 Cold air, dryness, hot showers, styling tools, and diet changes are the main reasons for increased shedding.
 With the right hair care routine — including proper moisturizing, gentle products, healthy diet, and reduced heat styling — you can easily control winter hair fall.