As the monsoon graces us with its presence here in Karnataka, many of my patients at Suraksha Skin Clinic come to me with a common, anxious question: "Doctor, why am I losing so much hair all of a sudden?"

If you've noticed more hair strands on your comb, in the shower drain, or on your pillow lately, let me reassure you: you are not imagining it. Increased hair fall during the rainy season is a very real and common phenomenon. As a dermatologist with over 18 years of experience, I want to explain why this happens and share a practical action plan to protect your hair during this damp season.

 

Why Does Hair Fall Increase During the Monsoon?

 

The shift in our environment from the dry summer heat to the moisture-laden monsoon air has a significant impact on our scalp and hair health. Here are the primary culprits:

1. High Environmental Humidity: Your hair shaft is porous. During the monsoon, it absorbs the excess moisture from the air, causing it to swell. This process lifts the hair's protective outer layer (the cuticle), making each strand weaker, rougher, and much more prone to breakage from simple acts like combing or styling.

2. Scalp Infections: The warm, damp environment of the monsoon is a perfect breeding ground for fungi and bacteria. This leads to a spike in scalp issues like:

Dandruff: Caused by the overgrowth of the fungus Malassezia.

Folliculitis: Bacterial infection of the hair follicles. These conditions cause scalp inflammation, itching, and flaking, which directly weakens the hair roots and leads to increased shedding.

3. Acid Rain and Pollutants: Rainwater isn't just pure H₂O. It often carries environmental pollutants that can be acidic. When this water comes into contact with your hair and scalp, it can disrupt the natural pH balance, further damaging the hair follicles and contributing to hair fall.

4. Lack of Vitamin D: The persistently cloudy skies mean we get significantly less sun exposure. Sunlight is our primary source of Vitamin D, a crucial nutrient that helps create new hair follicles. A dip in Vitamin D levels can disrupt the hair growth cycle, pushing more hair into the shedding phase.

 

A Dermatologist's Action Plan to Manage Monsoon Hair Fall

 

While we can't change the weather, we can certainly change how we care for our hair. Here are six evidence-based tips to keep your hair healthy and strong.

1. Keep Your Scalp Scrupulously Clean & Dry This is the most critical step. Wash your hair 2-3 times a week with a gentle shampoo to remove excess oil, grime, and any fungal build-up. Crucially, never tie up or cover your hair when it's wet. A damp scalp is an invitation for infections. Pat your hair dry with a soft towel and let it air dry completely.

2. Choose the Right Shampoo & Conditioner Use a mild, sulphate-free, pH-balanced shampoo. If you are prone to dandruff, I recommend using a medicated anti-dandruff shampoo containing ingredients like Ketoconazole or Zinc Pyrithione once or twice a week. Always apply conditioner, but only to the lengths and ends of your hair—not the scalp, as this can weigh down the roots.

3. Handle with Care Your hair is at its weakest when wet.

Avoid: Vigorously rubbing your hair with a coarse towel.

Instead: Gently squeeze out excess water.

Avoid: Combing wet hair immediately.

Instead: Use a wide-toothed comb to detangle once your hair is semi-dry, starting from the tips and working your way up to the roots.

4. Nourish From Within A balanced diet is your first line of defense. Ensure you are getting enough:

Protein: The building block of hair. (e.g., eggs, dal, paneer, sprouts)

Iron: Essential for hair growth. (e.g., spinach, lentils, beetroot)

Biotin & Zinc: Key for hair strength. (e.g., nuts, seeds, whole grains) Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.

5. Protect Your Hair Outdoors Don't let your hair get soaked in the rain. The pollutants can be damaging. Always carry an umbrella or wear a protective scarf over your hair when you step out.

6. Avoid Tight Hairstyles Pulling your hair back into tight ponytails, buns, or braids puts physical stress on the hair follicles, a condition known as traction alopecia. Opt for loose, comfortable hairstyles, especially during the monsoon when your hair is already fragile.

 

When Should You See a Dermatologist?

 

It's normal to lose 50-100 strands of hair a day. However, it's time to seek professional help if you notice:

Visible clumps of hair falling out.

Noticeable thinning or a widening partition.

The appearance of bald patches.

Persistent and severe scalp itching, redness, or dandruff.

These could be signs of an underlying issue that requires a precise diagnosis and a targeted treatment plan, which may include prescription medications, scalp treatments, or advanced procedures like Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy.

Don't let monsoon hair fall cause you distress. By taking these proactive steps, you can keep your scalp healthy and your hair resilient.

Stay safe and take care,

 

Dr. Savitha D. Raichur 

MD, DVD, PGD-HRM 

Founder, Suraksha Skin Clinic, Hubli