Hair Loss Vs Hair Breakage, Our Experts Break It Down!

The hair godmothers of the world (or experts as Google will call them) tell us that we lose up to 100 strands of hair a day. So all of the hair left in your brush or on the bathroom floor is quite normal. But when do you need to push the alarm button on excessive hair loss. And is your hair breaking off, or have your mother’s genes come to haunt you?

We asked our favorite professional hair expert and stylist Darlene Dorsett from Idalias Salon, to break down our confusion. Because as she reveals, many don’t even realize that there’s a difference. Understanding these differences are key to solving your problem.

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When hair naturally falls from the root, you are experiencing hair loss. Hair Loss is 70% hereditary and 30% chemical. You may not be able to prevent it but you can certainly take steps to keep your hair as healthy as possible.

Hair Breakage is due to a lack of proper hair treatment, which includes over-processing, neglect, application of product, and tension on hair (seen especially in those wearing weaves, braids, etc.). Curly hair is especially prone to breakage due to it’s texture and likelihood to tangle and snag.

To determine the difference just look at the hair in your brush; if the root is still attached (the white bulb that clients often mistake for dandruff or product buildup), you’re losing hair. If the ends are frayed or look chewed, this is most certainly breakage and should be addressed.

One way to decrease both hair loss and breakage is to be super diligent during detangling. Being extra gentle, use a wide-toothed comb and take extra care to condition your strands. Regular trims are also important. Lastly, focusing on the health of your hair can prevent excessive breakage and loss. Water, a healthy diet, biotin supplements, and weekly deep conditioning treatments will all go far to contribute to the overall health of your hair.

Follow these tips and you should see a marked improvement in your mane.

Here’s to healthy hair!

-Darlene

Check out more tips for taming your curls here: