Hair Shedding All Over the Scalp

Hair shedding all over the scalp describes a pattern where hair loss occurs evenly across the entire scalp surface, rather than in isolated patches. This is medically referred to as diffuse hair shedding. Unlike patchy hair loss, which can be caused by conditions like alopecia areata, diffuse shedding is most often linked to telogen effluvium. In this condition, a larger than normal number of hair follicles enter the telogen or resting phase of the hair growth cycle at the same time, leading to increased hair fall.

The scalp typically contains about 100,000 hair follicles, with most in the active growth (anagen) phase and a smaller percentage in the resting (telogen) phase. In healthy individuals, it is normal to lose up to 100 hairs per day as part of the natural cycle. However, when a trigger such as stress, illness, or hormonal changes occurs, up to 70% of hairs can prematurely enter the telogen phase. As a result, people may notice shedding everywhere on the scalp, leading to a visible decrease in hair density. This process is usually temporary, and regrowth is expected once the underlying trigger is resolved.

Common Signs of Diffuse Hair Shedding

Diffuse hair shedding presents with several noticeable signs that set it apart from other forms of hair loss. One of the most common indicators is finding more hair than usual on your pillow, in the shower drain, or on your hairbrush. This increased shedding is not limited to a specific area but occurs all over the scalp, making the hair appear less dense and thinner overall.

Other signs include a widening part, where the line of scalp visible when you part your hair becomes broader. Some people may also observe that their scalp is more visible, especially under bright light. Unlike patchy hair loss, diffuse shedding does not create bald spots but instead results in even thinning. These changes can be distressing, but they are characteristic of telogen effluvium and similar conditions that cause diffuse shedding.

Why Does Even Thinning Happen?

Even thinning occurs when a large proportion of hair follicles on the scalp shift from the growth phase to the resting phase simultaneously. This phenomenon is most often triggered by a significant physical or emotional event, such as surgery, illness, sudden weight loss, or psychological stress. When this shift happens, the affected hairs stop growing and eventually shed, resulting in a noticeable decrease in overall hair density.

The reason the thinning appears even is that telogen effluvium affects hair follicles across the entire scalp, rather than targeting specific regions. This leads to a uniform reduction in hair volume, making the scalp more visible and the hair feel less full. The process is typically reversible, and new hair growth usually begins once the underlying cause is addressed and the hair cycle returns to normal.

How Does Telogen Effluvium Cause Hair Loss?

Telogen effluvium is a condition where a higher than normal number of hair follicles enter the telogen (resting) phase of the hair cycle. Normally, about 85% of scalp hairs are in the growth phase, while 10-15% are resting. After a trigger, such as severe stress, illness, or hormonal changes, up to 70% of hairs can prematurely shift into the telogen phase. This leads to a dramatic increase in daily hair shedding, sometimes up to 300 hairs per day.

The shedding associated with telogen effluvium typically begins two to four months after the triggering event. This delay occurs because hairs remain in the resting phase for several months before falling out. The hair loss is diffuse, affecting the entire scalp rather than isolated patches. Importantly, telogen effluvium does not cause scarring or permanent damage to the hair follicles, so regrowth is expected once the cycle normalizes.

Part Widening and Overall Density Loss

One of the earliest and most noticeable signs of diffuse hair shedding is part widening. As more hairs are shed from all over the scalp, the line where you part your hair becomes broader and more scalp is visible. This change is often subtle at first but can become more pronounced as shedding continues.

Overall density loss refers to the general thinning of hair across the entire scalp. This can make the hair feel less full and reduce its ability to cover the scalp, especially in bright lighting. While these changes can be distressing, they are typical of telogen effluvium and do not indicate permanent hair loss.

Areas Commonly Affected: Crown, Temples, and Hairline

Diffuse hair shedding impacts the entire scalp, but some areas may appear more affected due to natural variations in hair density. The crown, temples, and hairline are often the most noticeable regions for thinning. At the crown, thinning can make the scalp more visible, especially when hair is parted or styled.

The temples and hairline may also show signs of reduced density, with a finer or more transparent appearance. In telogen effluvium, however, the hairline is usually preserved, and complete baldness does not occur. These patterns help distinguish diffuse shedding from other forms of hair loss.

Differences Between Normal Shedding and Excess Shedding

It is normal to lose up to 100 hairs per day as part of the natural hair cycle. This daily shedding is usually not noticeable and does not affect the appearance of hair density. Excess shedding, as seen in telogen effluvium, involves losing significantly more hairs-sometimes up to 300 strands per day.

The key difference lies in the volume and pattern of hair loss. Normal shedding does not lead to visible thinning, while excess shedding causes a noticeable decrease in overall scalp density and even thinning. If you are unsure whether your hair loss is within the normal range, a healthcare provider or dermatologist can perform a hair pull test or other assessments to help determine the cause.

Caring for Your Scalp During Shedding

Gentle care of your scalp and hair is crucial during periods of increased shedding. Avoid over-vigorous brushing, harsh chemical treatments, and tight hairstyles that can put additional stress on the hair follicles. Use mild shampoos and conditioners, and consider letting your hair air-dry rather than using high heat.

Maintaining a balanced diet rich in protein, fruits, and vegetables supports healthy hair regrowth. If an underlying medical condition or deficiency is identified, addressing it can help restore normal hair cycling. Emotional support and stress management techniques can also be beneficial, as psychological stress is a known trigger for telogen effluvium.

What to Expect With Regrowth

Regrowth after diffuse hair shedding typically begins once the underlying trigger has been resolved and the hair cycle returns to normal. Most people notice a reduction in shedding within six to nine months, although the timeline can vary depending on individual factors and hair length. New hairs may first appear as a fine fringe along the hairline or as short, wispy regrowth throughout the scalp.

While most cases of telogen effluvium resolve completely, some people may experience incomplete recovery or chronic shedding. Chronic telogen effluvium can last for years but does not cause complete baldness. If you are concerned about your regrowth progress, a dermatologist can provide guidance and monitor your recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much hair loss is normal each day?

It is normal to lose up to 100 hairs per day as part of the natural hair cycle. This shedding is usually not noticeable and does not affect overall hair density. Shedding significantly more than this may indicate a condition like telogen effluvium.

Can telogen effluvium cause bald spots?

Telogen effluvium causes diffuse thinning across the scalp rather than isolated bald spots. Complete baldness or patchy hair loss is not typical. If you notice bald patches, consult a healthcare provider to rule out other conditions.

Will my hair regrow after shedding slows down?

In most cases, hair regrowth begins once the shedding phase ends and the underlying trigger is resolved. New hair may appear as fine regrowth along the hairline or throughout the scalp. Full recovery can take several months.

How long does telogen effluvium last?

Telogen effluvium usually resolves within six to nine months. Shedding often starts two to four months after a triggering event and gradually decreases as the hair cycle normalizes. In rare cases, chronic telogen effluvium can last for years.

Are there treatments for diffuse shedding?

Most cases of diffuse shedding due to telogen effluvium resolve on their own without specific treatment. Addressing underlying triggers, maintaining a healthy diet, and gentle hair care are recommended. In some cases, a dermatologist may suggest topical treatments if regrowth is incomplete.

Can stress really make you shed hair everywhere?

Yes, psychological stress is a well-recognized trigger for telogen effluvium. Stressful events can cause a large number of hair follicles to enter the resting phase, leading to diffuse shedding across the scalp.

Do dietary changes help with even thinning?

A balanced diet with adequate protein, vitamins, and minerals supports healthy hair growth. Nutritional deficiencies, especially in iron or certain vitamins, can contribute to hair shedding. Correcting these deficiencies may help restore normal hair cycling.