You’re bundled up, sipping your oat milk peppermint mocha, and feeling all the cozy vibes. Until you run your hands through your hair and realize … it’s coming out. Maybe not a little.
First things first: You’re not imagining it. Winter hair loss is a real thing, and if you’re seeing more strands in your brush or clogging your shower drain, you’re not alone.
Let’s talk about what’s going on, what’s totally normal, and when it’s time to call in the pros (hi 👋, that’s us).
1. The Seasonal Shed Is Science-Backed
Just like animals shed their coats, humans can experience more hair loss in colder months. Several studies exist on the seasonality of hair shedding, and extra shedding in the winter can be linked to relatively low Vitamin D intake plus the ways our hair grows in cycles.
💡 Quick science tidbit: Hair goes through growth (anagen), rest (telogen), and shed (exogen) phases. Winter tends to tip the balance toward shedding.
2. Your Scalp Is Dry AF
Cold weather + indoor heat = the perfect storm for a dry, flaky, irritated scalp. A dehydrated scalp can lead to inflammation around the hair follicle … and that can lead to shedding.
🧴 Try this: We recommend a scalp-soothing leave-in hair treatment—lightweight, nourishing, and an absolute winter essential. Come grab one at the G!
3. Hat Hair Is Doing You Dirty
We love a good beanie moment, but tight hats can cause friction on fragile hair, especially around the hairline and nape. Combine that with static, and you’ve got breakage waiting to happen.
🧢 Pro tip: Line your hats with silk or opt for looser fits if you wear them daily.
4. Your Diet Might Shift
The holidays are full of cheer (and cheese), but if your usual nutrient-rich routine takes a backseat, your hair may feel it. Low iron, vitamin D, and protein can all impact hair health.
🥗 What to add back in: Leafy greens, omega-3s, lean protein, and water. So much water.
5. Your Hair Feels the Seasonal Stress, Too
Winter blues? End-of-year pressure? Holiday travel? Emotional or physical stress can cause telogen effluvium, where more hairs enter the shedding phase. It’s temporary, but it can feel scary.
✨ The good news: You’re not alone, and there are gentle solutions that work without causing more trauma to your hair.
So … What Can You Do About It?
Let’s be clear: Not all hair loss is bad. Shedding is natural.
But if it feels excessive, emotional, or like you’re not recognizing yourself in the mirror anymore, it’s time to take action.
Here’s the Help You Can Get from Garnish:
Consult with a stylist who specializes in hair loss (yep, we have a whole squad trained just for this).
Explore winter-safe extension options that add fullness without damaging fragile strands.
Develop a custom scalp care routine that supports healthy hair from root to end.
Ready to Love Your Hair Again?
We’re here to walk this winter season with you—dry scalp, static, shedding and all.
If your hair isn’t feeling like you, let’s talk about it. You deserve to feel like your most confident self in every season.
👉 Apply to work with a Garnish hair loss specialist today
👉 Follow us on Instagram for hair tips, transformations, and a few behind-the-scenes bloopers.