Is Your Hair Falling Out or Just Shedding? Here’s How to Tell the Difference

You’re brushing your hair and notice more strands than usual caught in the bristles. Panic. Is your hair falling out? Or… is it just shedding?

Here’s the truth: some hair loss is totally normal. In fact, the average woman sheds anywhere between 50 to 100 strands per day. But how do you know when it crosses the line from regular shedding to something more concerning?

Let’s break it down so you can stop guessing—and start giving your hair exactly what it needs.

What Is Hair Shedding?

Hair shedding is a natural part of the hair growth cycle. Your strands go through phases:

Anagen (growth)
Catagen (transition)
Telogen (resting)
Exogen (shedding)

When your hair reaches the exogen phase, it naturally falls out to make room for new growth. So if you see a few strands on your pillow or in the shower drain, it’s likely nothing to stress about.

But when the shedding seems heavier or more consistent than usual? That’s when it’s time to investigate.

What Is Hair Loss?

Hair loss, also called alopecia, means something has disrupted the hair cycle or damaged the follicle—so your hair isn’t just falling out… it’s not growing back.

Common causes include:

Hormonal imbalances (like postpartum or thyroid issues)
Nutrient deficiencies
Stress or trauma
Hairstyles that pull too tightly
Heat and chemical damage
Underlying health conditions

Unlike normal shedding, hair loss may show up as noticeable thinning, bald spots, or an unusually high number of strands coming out at once.

How to Tell the Difference

Ask yourself these three questions:

Is the shedding sudden or gradual?
Gradual shedding is often normal. Sudden hair fall could point to hair loss.
Are you noticing patches or thinning areas?
Patches or a widened part line may indicate hair loss rather than general shedding.
Did anything in your lifestyle change recently?
Think: new medication, postpartum, weight loss, stress, illness, or hair treatments.

Still unsure? Gently tug a small section of hair—if more than 4-5 hairs come out easily, that might be a sign of excess shedding or early-stage hair loss.

What You Can Do About It

Whether you’re dealing with shedding or loss, your hair needs the same thing: gentle care and targeted support.

1. Swap to Silk
Start with what your hair touches most—your pillow. Silkie’s 100% mulberry silk pillowcases are gentle on strands, reduce friction, and minimize breakage during sleep. If your hair is fragile or falling, the last thing you need is harsh cotton absorbing your moisture or causing more stress on the follicles.

Get yours here: www.shopsilkie.com

2. Ditch Tight Styles
Protective styles are great, but too much tension can cause traction alopecia. Use Silkie silk scrunchies to tie your hair back without pulling or creasing. They're gentle, stylish, and made for all hair types.

3. Check Your Hairbrush
A brush with hard or widely spaced bristles can yank on your strands. Silkie's boar bristle brushes are ideal for gentle detangling and redistributing natural oils, which can help promote stronger, shinier hair over time.

4. Nourish From the Inside Out
Eat a balanced diet rich in biotin, iron, zinc, and protein. Consider supplements if you’re not getting enough through food—but always consult your doctor first.

5. Create a Soothing Haircare Ritual
Use this time to slow down. Add scalp massages with nourishing oils (like rosemary or jojoba) to stimulate blood flow and support hair growth.

When to See a Professional

If your hair loss is ongoing, patchy, or paired with other symptoms (like fatigue or skin issues), check in with a dermatologist or trichologist. Sometimes, the issue runs deeper—and early treatment can make all the difference.

The Bottom Line

Hair shedding? Normal.
Hair loss? Worth exploring.

But either way, your hair deserves a little extra love—especially during times of stress or change. Start with the small things that make a big difference: gentler tools, cleaner fabrics, and silk that actually protects your strands while you sleep.

Silkie is here to help. Explore our entire line of silk pillowcases, silk scrunchies, and natural brushes designed to support healthy, beautiful hair at www.shopsilkie.com.