Teen Hair Shedding
Reviewed by
Steven P., FAAD
Board-certified dermatologist
Updated on
Reviewed for accuracy
Table of Contents
What Is Teen Hair Shedding?
Teen hair shedding refers to the noticeable loss of hair that occurs during adolescence. While it is normal for everyone to lose some hair each day, excessive shedding can be distressing for teenagers and their families. This shedding may present as hair thinning, increased hair in the shower drain, or visible patches of missing hair.
The causes of teen hair shedding are varied and can include hormonal changes, stress, nutritional deficiencies, and certain medical conditions. In many cases, the shedding is temporary and resolves once the underlying issue is treated or passes. However, persistent or patchy hair loss may require evaluation by a healthcare provider. Understanding the difference between normal and abnormal shedding is important for teens and parents alike.
Normal Hair Growth in Teens
Hair growth in teens follows a natural cycle that includes growth (anagen), transition (catagen), and rest (telogen) phases. At any given time, most scalp hairs are in the growth phase, while a smaller percentage are in the resting or shedding phase. It is normal to lose between 50 and 100 hairs per day as part of this cycle.
During adolescence, the body undergoes significant changes that can temporarily disrupt the hair growth cycle. Rapid growth, hormonal fluctuations, and lifestyle changes can all influence how much hair a teen sheds. Most teens will notice some variation in their hair thickness or shedding patterns, especially during periods of stress or illness.
Why Does Hair Shedding Happen During Puberty?
Puberty is a time of major hormonal and physical changes, which can directly impact hair growth and shedding. The surge in sex hormones, particularly androgens, can alter the growth cycle of hair follicles. Some teens may notice increased shedding or changes in hair texture as their bodies adjust to these new hormone levels.
In addition to hormonal influences, puberty often brings lifestyle changes such as new hair care routines, increased use of styling products, and heightened emotional stress. These factors can all contribute to temporary increases in hair shedding. For most teens, these changes are short-lived and hair growth returns to normal as the body adapts.
Hormonal Changes
Hormonal changes during puberty are one of the most significant factors affecting hair shedding in teens. The rise in androgens can lead to increased oil production on the scalp and may trigger conditions like telogen effluvium, a temporary form of hair loss marked by excessive shedding. In some cases, these hormonal shifts can also unmask genetic tendencies toward pattern hair loss, especially if there is a family history.
For girls, hormonal fluctuations related to the menstrual cycle can also affect hair growth. Boys may notice changes in hair density or texture as testosterone levels rise. While these changes can be concerning, they are usually part of the normal transition through adolescence.
Increased Oil Production
Puberty often causes the scalp’s oil glands to become more active, leading to increased sebum production. This can make hair appear greasier and may contribute to scalp conditions such as dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis. Excess oil can also weigh hair down, making shedding more noticeable.
While increased oiliness itself does not directly cause hair loss, it can create an environment where hair is more prone to breakage or may be shed more easily during brushing or washing. Good scalp hygiene and gentle hair care can help manage these changes during puberty.
Common Causes of Teen Hair Shedding
There are several common causes of hair shedding in teenagers. These include stress, nutritional deficiencies, illness, medications, and certain hair styling habits. Each of these factors can disrupt the normal hair growth cycle and lead to increased shedding or thinning.
Understanding the underlying cause is essential for effective management. In many cases, addressing the root issue can help restore normal hair growth. If hair shedding is persistent or severe, it is important to seek guidance from a healthcare provider or dermatologist.
Stress and Emotional Factors
Emotional stress is a well-recognized trigger for hair shedding in teens. Major life changes, academic pressure, social challenges, or trauma can all contribute to a condition known as telogen effluvium. In this condition, a larger number of hair follicles enter the resting phase, leading to noticeable shedding.
Stress-related hair loss is usually temporary and resolves once the stressor is managed or removed. However, chronic stress can prolong shedding and may require support from a counselor or mental health professional.
Nutritional Deficiencies
Nutrition plays a vital role in healthy hair growth. Deficiencies in iron, vitamin D, biotin, zinc, and other nutrients can lead to increased hair shedding in teens. Eating disorders, restrictive diets, or underlying medical conditions that affect nutrient absorption can all contribute to this problem.
Addressing nutritional deficiencies through a balanced diet or supplements, as recommended by a healthcare provider, can help restore hair growth.
Illness and Medications
Certain illnesses and medications are known to cause hair shedding in teens. Thyroid disorders, autoimmune conditions like alopecia areata or lupus, and scalp infections such as ringworm can all disrupt the hair growth cycle. Some medications, including those for acne, depression, or blood pressure, may also have hair loss as a side effect.
In many cases, hair regrows once the underlying illness is treated or the medication is adjusted. If you suspect a medical condition or medication is causing hair loss, consult a healthcare provider for evaluation and guidance.
Hair Styling Habits
Frequent use of heat styling tools, chemical treatments, or tight hairstyles can damage hair and contribute to shedding. Traction alopecia is a form of hair loss caused by repeated tension from styles like tight ponytails, braids, or buns. Over time, this can weaken hair follicles and lead to thinning along the hairline.
Limiting harsh treatments and choosing gentle hair care practices can help prevent hair breakage and loss.
Signs Your Hair Shedding Is Not Normal
While some hair shedding is expected, certain signs may indicate an underlying problem. Excessive shedding that lasts for several weeks, visible patches of hair loss, or thinning that progresses rapidly are all reasons to seek medical advice. Other concerning symptoms include redness, scaling, or pain on the scalp.
If hair loss is accompanied by other symptoms such as fatigue, weight changes, or changes in skin or nails, it may signal a medical condition like thyroid disease or lupus. Early evaluation by a healthcare provider can help identify the cause and improve the chances of successful treatment.
How Nutrition Impacts Teen Hair Growth
Nutrition is a cornerstone of healthy hair growth in teenagers. Hair follicles require a steady supply of vitamins, minerals, and proteins to function optimally. Diets lacking in key nutrients can disrupt the hair growth cycle and lead to increased shedding or thinning.
Teens are especially vulnerable to nutritional deficiencies due to rapid growth, changing dietary habits, and, in some cases, restrictive eating patterns. Ensuring a balanced intake of iron, protein, zinc, and vitamins such as D and B-complex is essential for maintaining strong, healthy hair. Addressing deficiencies can often reverse hair shedding and promote regrowth.
Importance of Iron and Other Nutrients
Iron is particularly important for teen hair health. Iron deficiency is a common cause of hair loss in adolescents, especially in menstruating girls. Low iron levels can reduce oxygen delivery to hair follicles, weakening them and causing increased shedding.
Other nutrients, including vitamin D, biotin, zinc, and protein, also support hair structure and growth. Teens who follow vegetarian or vegan diets, or who have underlying health conditions affecting absorption, should be especially mindful of their nutrient intake.
Can Stress Cause Hair Loss in Teens?
Stress is a significant factor in teen hair shedding. Emotional or physical stress can push a large number of hair follicles into the resting phase, resulting in noticeable shedding several weeks later. This condition, known as telogen effluvium, is usually temporary and resolves once the stressor is removed.
Academic pressure, relationship issues, major life changes, or trauma can all trigger stress-related hair loss in teens. Providing emotional support and healthy coping strategies can help reduce the impact of stress on hair health.
Tips to Reduce Hair Shedding During Puberty
There are several practical steps teens can take to minimize hair shedding during puberty. First, focus on maintaining a balanced diet rich in iron, protein, and essential vitamins. Avoid restrictive diets and seek guidance from a healthcare provider if you suspect a nutritional deficiency.
Gentle hair care is also important. Limit the use of heat styling tools and harsh chemical treatments, and avoid tight hairstyles that pull on the scalp. Manage stress through healthy outlets such as exercise, hobbies, or talking to a trusted adult. If hair shedding persists, consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation.
FAQ: Teen Hair Shedding
How much hair loss is normal in teens?
It is normal for teens to lose between 50 and 100 hairs per day as part of the natural hair growth cycle. Temporary increases in shedding can occur during puberty, illness, or periods of stress. If shedding is excessive or lasts for several weeks, consult a healthcare provider.
Will hair grow back after shedding?
In most cases, hair will regrow once the underlying cause of shedding is addressed. Conditions such as telogen effluvium, nutritional deficiencies, or stress-related hair loss are usually reversible. However, genetic forms of hair loss may progress over time but can often be managed with treatment.
Can puberty cause hair shedding?
Yes, puberty can cause hair shedding due to hormonal fluctuations. The increase in sex hormones can alter the hair growth cycle and lead to temporary shedding or changes in hair texture. Most teens see improvement as their bodies adjust to these changes.
Should I worry about balding as a teen?
Most teen hair shedding is temporary and not a sign of permanent balding. However, if there is a family history of pattern hair loss or if shedding is severe and persistent, it is important to seek medical advice. Early intervention can help slow progression and support hair regrowth.
What tests might a doctor do for hair shedding?
A doctor may perform a physical exam, review your medical history, and conduct a pull test to assess hair loss. Blood tests can check for hormonal imbalances or nutritional deficiencies, and in some cases, a scalp biopsy may be needed to determine the cause.
What role does diet play in teen hair loss?
Diet plays a crucial role in hair health. Deficiencies in iron, protein, vitamin D, and other nutrients can lead to increased hair shedding. A balanced diet supports healthy hair growth and can help reverse shedding caused by nutritional deficiencies.
Can hair products cause shedding?
Some hair products, especially those containing harsh chemicals or used in frequent styling, can damage hair and contribute to breakage and shedding. Gentle hair care and avoiding excessive treatments can help maintain healthy hair during the teen years.
Fact Checked
Updated: December 30, 2025
Reviewed for accuracy against authoritative clinical sources and peer reviewed dermatology references. Educational content only.
Quality Controlled
We use a structured editorial process focused on clarity, accuracy, and alignment with current clinical understanding. This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Editorial Policy
Clinical Sources
Reviewed by
Steven P., FAAD
Board-certified dermatologist
Updated on
Reviewed for accuracy
