Hair loss at the start of the year may signal baldness

Dermatologist warns: intense hair loss three months after stress, surgeries, or infections may indicate baldness. Ignoring signs accelerates hair thinning.The first months of the year typically bring a significant increase in complaints about hair loss, for both women and men. According to dermatologist Ana Maria Benvegnú, this is not merely a coincidence. She explains that during this period, Acute Telogen Effluvium commonly appears, a condition where the number of hairs shed throughout the day increases noticeably, especially during showering.According to the specialist, this type of hair loss appears about three months after an important trigger, such as stress, weight loss, postpartum, surgeries, or infections like dengue. Accumulated stress at the end of the year, for example, is often one of the main culprits for increased hair loss right now.

When hair loss becomes concerning

The dermatologist advises that hair loss becomes concerning when it lasts beyond three months, when it is very intense, or when the patient already has thin, sparse hair or a family history of baldness.

In these cases, it is essential to see a dermatologist to prevent new hairs from growing increasingly thinner

Other warning signs include itching, pain, burning, scalp sensitivity, widening of the central part, and visible scalp even without heavy shedding.

Differences between men and women

Although men and women can experience all types of alopecia, there are more common patterns in each group. In women, cases of Telogen Effluvium and Androgenetic Alopecia are frequent, where hair progressively thins. In men, the most common cause is male pattern baldness.Investigation includes general exams, blood glucose, hormones, vitamins, minerals, inflammatory and autoimmune markers, plus serology tests. Treatment is always personalized.

First we understand the reason for the loss; then we structure a targeted plan. Men and women may have different approaches, but the essential thing is to treat the cause

For women, hormonal factors, stress, and menstrual cycles have a significant impact. Hair loss is usually multifactorial: hormones, genetics, stress, and even nutritional issues can act together.

Habits that worsen and strengthen hair

Regarding supplements, the dermatologist emphasizes that well-prescribed vitamins can help, but when used without guidance may have no effect. Habits that worsen hair loss include chronic stress, restrictive diets, hormonal fluctuations, excessive chemicals, hair traction, intense heat use, untreated diseases, and certain medications.To strengthen hair, she recommends a nutrient-rich diet and a balanced washing routine.

Myths about hair loss

Ana Maria also clarifies common myths: washing hair daily does not cause loss; hats do not provoke baldness; sleeping with wet hair does not cause shedding, although it may favor seborrheic dermatitis; and very hot blow dryers held close to hair can damage the hair shaft.The so-called seasonal hair loss, which typically occurs in autumn, is also real.

Our body follows physiological cycles similar to nature. Just as trees lose leaves, we also go through a period of greater shedding. And when we add stress to this, the impact is even greater

Hair care during Carnival

With strong sun, sweat, glitter, and colored sprays, Carnival demands extra care. The ideal is to apply leave-in with UV protection or hair sunscreen and protect exposed areas of the scalp.The doctor also recommends: washing and drying hair after returning from parties, avoiding sleeping with glitter or temporary dyes, and using residue-removing shampoo followed by conditioner. Before going out, reinforce sun protection on hair and the central scalp part.After the festivities, hydration and reconstruction are essential, and any scalp changes should be evaluated by a dermatologist.Photo: Press Release