How to Tell the Difference
You're seeing hair in the sink, on your brush, even on your pillowcase. But before you panic, here’s the real question:
Is it breakage—or is it shedding?
There’s a difference between the two, and knowing which one you’re dealing with will help you take the right steps to care for your hair. In this guide, we’re breaking it all down: what’s normal, what’s not, and how to fix what needs attention.
Let’s get into it.
What’s the Difference Between Breakage and Shedding?
What Is Shedding?
Shedding is a normal part of the hair’s life cycle. We shed anywhere from 50 to 100 hairs per day as part of the natural growth process.
How to spot it:
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The strand falls from the root
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It has a tiny white bulb at the end
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It tends to be a full-length strand of hair
Shedding often increases during certain times of the year or after major hormonal changes (like postpartum), but it doesn’t usually mean something is wrong.
What Is Breakage?
Breakage, on the other hand, is not normal. It happens when your hair snaps somewhere along the shaft—not from the root.
How to spot it:
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The strand is shorter than the rest
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There is no white bulb
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You’ll see frayed or uneven pieces around your sink, brush, or hands
Breakage is a sign that something is weakening your strands—either from dryness, stress, or mechanical damage.
Common Causes of Shedding
Shedding is often linked to internal or hormonal shifts. Here are some of the most common causes:
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Hormonal changes (postpartum, menopause, thyroid imbalances)
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Increased stress or elevated cortisol levels
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Seasonal transitions (like fall or spring)
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Poor diet or nutrient deficiencies
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Medications or health conditions
While some shedding is inevitable, excessive shedding is a sign to check in with your body and possibly consult a healthcare provider.
Common Causes of Breakage
Breakage is more commonly linked to external stressors—things you can often control. Here are the main culprits:
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Dryness from lack of moisture or improper sealing
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Protein/moisture imbalance (too much of one, not enough of the other)
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Rough detangling or aggressive brushing
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Heat damage from flat irons, curling wands, or blow drying
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Over-manipulation from constant styling or tight protective styles
The good news? Breakage is usually easier to fix than shedding—with the right products and habits.
How to Tell What You’re Dealing With
If you’re noticing more hair fall than usual, here’s a quick self-check:
| What You See | Shedding | Breakage |
|---|---|---|
| White bulb on end | Yes | No |
| Length of hair | Full strand | Shorter pieces |
| Location of break | Root (natural fall) | Mid-shaft or ends |
| Texture of broken hair | Smooth, full strand | Jagged, rough, inconsistent |
| Cause | Hormonal/internal | Mechanical/external |
Solutions for Breakage
If you confirm it’s breakage, focus on restoring moisture, being gentle, and strengthening your strands.
Step 1: Hydrate and Moisturize
Use a moisturizing leave-in and cream combo to keep hair soft and elastic.
Try:
Seal in that moisture with a lightweight oil like:
Step 2: Protein for Strength
Balance moisture with a protein treatment that reinforces the hair shaft.
Try:
Use once every 2–4 weeks depending on your hair’s condition.
Step 3: Gentle Handling
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Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to detangle
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Detangle on damp, conditioned hair
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Avoid tight styles or frequent manipulation
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Sleep in satin bonnets or on satin pillowcases
Solutions for Shedding
Shedding needs a slightly different approach, because it often stems from internal health.
Step 1: Check In With Your Body
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Are you experiencing high stress?
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Have you recently had a baby or hormonal shift?
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Are you eating well and staying hydrated?
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Are you getting enough sleep?
Reducing stress, eating a nutrient-rich diet, and getting more rest can make a bigger impact than any topical product.
Step 2: Scalp Stimulation
Scalp massages increase circulation and support follicle health.
Try:
Use 2–3 times a week to encourage growth and reduce inflammation.
Step 3: Support Your Routine
Even with shedding, don’t abandon your routine. Stick to gentle cleansing, deep conditioning, and protective styling to support retention.
Try:
Can You Stop Shedding Completely?
No—and you shouldn’t try to. Shedding is a necessary part of your hair’s natural growth cycle.
What you can do is reduce excessive shedding and eliminate unnecessary breakage, which gives your hair the best chance to grow long and strong.
Know the Signs, Protect the Strands
When you know the difference between breakage and shedding, you stop guessing—and start taking the right action.
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Shedding is normal and usually internal
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Breakage is preventable and usually external
Listen to your hair.
Check in with your habits.
Make small changes that add up to big results.
And most importantly—don’t panic.
With a little care and consistency, your strands can thrive again.
