Does Conditioner Cause Hair Loss

Why does it seem that more hair falls out when you apply hair conditioner?

5 min readOct 12, 2024

Why Does More Hair Fall Out When Conditioning?

Hey there! It’s completely normal to feel worried if you notice more hair falling out when you use conditioner. Let’s figure this out together! 😊

Short Answer:
When you use conditioner, it helps untangle your hair, making loose strands fall out. It’s normal to lose 50–100 strands of hair every day. If you see more hair after conditioning, it often means those strands were already loose. Don’t worry; this is typical!

Let me explain in detail…

Seeing hair in the shower when you use conditioner can feel surprising. In this answer, we’ll explore why this happens, what conditioners do, and how to take better care of your hair.

Understanding Hair and Conditioners

The Hair Growth Cycle

Hair has different phases: the growth phase, resting phase, and shedding phase. Knowing this cycle helps explain why you might lose hair.

1. Growth Phase (Anagen Phase)

This is when your hair grows long. Hair stays in this phase for 2–8 years. About 85–90% of your hair is busy growing.

2. Resting Phase (Catagen Phase)

In this phase, hair stops growing for about 2–3 weeks.

3. Shedding Phase (Telogen Phase)

Most hair falls out during this phase. It lasts about 3–4 months. Around 10–15% of your hair is in this phase at any time, and it naturally falls out.

So, when you use conditioner, some of what you see as hair falling out might be strands already ready to go.

What Do Conditioners Do?

Conditioners do a special job. They hydrate and soften your hair. This makes your hair easier to manage. Conditioners coat the hair shaft, which reduces friction and helps to untangle knots.

However, this can make weak strands fall out. The conditioner can loosen hairs that are already weak or ready to drop. This is why some people see more hair after using conditioner.

Common Misconceptions

Many people think that conditioner causes more hair loss, but that’s not usually true. You might lose hair without noticing it. A healthy person loses between 50–100 strands daily. Conditioner just makes it easier to see during washing.

The Role of Hair Health

The health of your hair also matters. Weak or brittle hair is more likely to fall out during washing or conditioning. Using the wrong products for your hair type can cause damage and lead to more shedding.

Personal Experience

I remember when my friend was scared about losing hair every time she used conditioner. She loved to try new hair products, but she didn’t always pick the right ones for her curly hair. After learning more about conditioners, she changed her routine. Now, she focuses more on keeping her hair healthy instead of just the amount of hair that falls out.

Noteworthy Facts About Hair Shedding

1. The Cycle of Shedding

The average person loses 100–150 hairs a day. This is perfectly normal! (Source: American Academy of Dermatology)

2. Seasonal Shedding

Did you know hair can shed more in certain seasons, especially in fall? Studies show that this seasonal change is common and natural. (Source: Journal of Investigative Dermatology)

3. Product Buildup

If you use many thick products, you might notice more hair loss. Buildup can cause additional shedding. Regularly washing your hair helps reduce this.

4. Stress Matters

High stress can lead to hair loss. Many people notice more shedding after a stressful time. Finding ways to manage stress is needed for healthy hair.

5. Genetics Count

Genetics plays a big role in hair health. If people in your family lose hair, it can affect you too. Knowing your family history can help set your expectations.

1. New Treatments for Hair Loss

New options for hair restoration are developing. These new methods are very helpful for people with pattern baldness. (Source: Atlanta Journal-Constitution)

2. Beauty Supplements

Many people are taking beauty supplements with biotin, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids. These ingredients improve hair health. (Source: Healthline)

3. Mental Health and Hair

Studies show that mental health can influence how much hair we lose. Taking care of your feelings affects your hair. (Source: New York Times)

4. Eco-Friendly Products

More people choose natural hair care products that are gentle and reduce chemical damage. Using plants can be good for your hair. (Source: Forbes)

5. Diet and Hair

New studies show that eating a diet rich in proteins and vitamins can help keep hair strong. Good meals support all the cells in your body, including hair cells. (Source: Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology)

The Pros and Cons of Conditioning Hair

Pros

Moisturizing: Conditioners keep hair hydrated and smooth.

Less Breakage: Conditioning helps stop hair from breaking while styling.

Better Appearance: Healthy hair looks shiny and feels better with regular conditioning.

Cons

Buildup of Products: Conditioners can create buildup, making hair feel heavy.

Allergy Risks: Some people might have allergic reactions to certain ingredients.

Overconditioning Issues: Using too much conditioner can make hair greasy and cause more shedding.

Understanding these points can help you create the right hair care routine.

Conclusion

In summary, losing more strands of hair when you apply conditioner is often normal. This happens because the conditioner helps loosen hair that is already ready to fall out. If you worry about hair loss, consider trying different products, taking care of your health, and speaking with a doctor if needed.

Follow-Up Checklist

Evaluate your hair care routine.
Choose the right products for your hair type.
Watch your diet for essential vitamins.
Manage your stress through fun activities.
Talk to a doctor if you still have concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is it normal to lose hair when brushing?
Yes! It’s normal to lose some hair when brushing. On average, you might lose 50–100 strands throughout the day.

2. How can I stop hair loss?
You can stop hair loss by eating healthy meals, choosing the right conditioners, and lowering stress by relaxing.

3. Can conditioners cause hair loss?
Conditioners do not directly cause hair loss. They may help loose hair fall, making it seem like more hair is dropping.

4. Is hair loss reversible?
Many types of hair loss can be treated and managed properly with good products and care.

5. Which conditioner is best for my hair?
Choosing the right conditioner depends on your hair type. Fine hair works well with lighter products, while curly or dry hair usually needs richer conditioners.

Glossary

Telogen Phase: The stage when hair naturally falls out.
Anagen Phase: The phase when hair grows actively.
Catagen Phase: The stage when hair growth pauses.
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT): A hormone connected to hair loss.
Sebum: The natural oil from the scalp that keeps hair moist.