Hair Loss in Women: Why Seasonal Shedding Peaks in February

Many women notice more hair shedding during late winter — especially in February — and wonder if something is wrong. While shedding can be alarming, seasonal hair loss is a common and often temporary pattern influenced by environmental changes and physiology. At MDCS Dermatology, we help women understand the causes of seasonal shedding and offer evidence‑based strategies to maintain healthy hair. Lauren Penzi, MD works with patients to identify triggers and create personalized plans to support hair growth and reduce excessive loss.

Why Hair Shedding Peaks in February
Hair naturally goes through cycles: growth (anagen), transition (catagen), and resting/shedding (telogen). Seasonal shedding — often called telogen effluvium — can occur when a larger number of hair follicles simultaneously enter the telogen phase.

Winter Factors That Contribute to Shedding
Several winter‑related influences can trigger or worsen shedding in February:

• Dry Indoor Air
  Cold outdoor temperatures and heated indoor air strip moisture from the skin and scalp, potentially weakening hair and increasing breakage.

• Seasonal Stress and Hormones
  The transition from winter to spring can affect cortisol and other hormone levels, shifting hair follicles into the shedding phase.

• Reduced Sunlight (Vitamin D)
  Lower sunlight exposure in winter may impact hair cycle regulation, as vitamin D influences follicular health.

• Post‑Holiday Stress
  Physical and emotional stressors — including illness, travel, and routine disruptions — can contribute to a delayed shedding response weeks later.

This cluster of winter stressors often culminates in noticeable shedding by February, even in women with generally healthy hair.

Signs You’re Experiencing Seasonal Shedding
Seasonal hair loss often looks like:

• More hair in your brush or shower drain

• Thinner ponytail volume

• Noticeable shedding that seems out of proportion to styling

• Hair coming out in clumps without pain or itching

Unlike scarring hair loss, seasonal shedding doesn’t usually cause bald patches – and hair often regrows once the cycle normalizes.

What Women Can Do to Support Healthy Hair
At MDCS Dermatology, Dr. Penzi helps patients take proactive steps to support hair health during peak shedding seasons:

1. Balanced Nutrition
Iron, zinc, biotin, and protein are essential for hair strength and follicle support.

2. Gentle Hair Care
Avoid harsh brushing, heat styling, and tight hairstyles that strain hair strands.

3. Scalp Stimulation
Massage and professional scalp treatments can boost circulation and support follicular activity.

4. Medical Evaluation
Sometimes shedding overlaps with underlying conditions like thyroid imbalance or hormonal shifts, which may require medical attention.

5. Targeted Treatments
In select cases, topical or office‑based therapies may be recommended to strengthen follicles and reduce shedding.

Dr. Penzi assesses your history, pattern of loss, and overall health to recommend the most appropriate strategy — tailored to your lifestyle and hair goals.

When to See a Dermatologist
If shedding is accompanied by:

• Patchy or sudden thinning

• Itching, pain, or redness on the scalp

• Family history of patterned hair loss

• Persistent shedding beyond a few months

it’s important to consult a professional. Lauren Penzi, MD at MDCS Dermatology provides individualized evaluation and treatment strategies for women concerned about hair loss.

Book your hair loss consultation:
https://www.mdcsnyc.com/book-online