Hair loss: three simple signs to know if it’s excessive, according to a dermatologist

Have you noticed more hair on your brush or in the shower trap lately? This concern is shared by many people, especially at certain times of the year. To help you distinguish between normal and excessive hair loss, a dermatologist has revealed three simple signs to look out for on a daily basis.

Understanding hair loss: what’s normal and what’s not

At certain times of the year, our hair seems to accumulate everywhere but on our heads. Yet moderate hair loss is perfectly natural. The real challenge is to spot when hair loss goes beyond the usual limits.

Dermatologist Dr. Aamna Adel reminds us on her social networks that we lose an average of 150 hairs a day. This represents a small, light ball, not whole handfuls. So, if you’re picking up an imposing mass every morning, chances are the loss is too great.

This specialist has identified three practical methods for self-assessing the extent of the phenomenon. These techniques are not a substitute for medical advice, but they can help you determine whether a consultation is necessary.

“If you’re picking up an imposing mass every morning, there’s a good chance the fall will be too much.”

The brush and shower trap test

First instinct: observe what you find in your brush or shower trap. A small amount of hair after brushing or washing is normal. On the other hand, whole clumps should raise a red flag.

This simple gesture, performed every day, allows you to monitor how the situation is progressing. What’s more, it helps identify a progressive worsening before it becomes visible on the scalp.

• Observe the amount of hair in the brush each morning
• Check shower trap after each wash
• Compare the density of your ponytail over the weeks
• Perform the pull test on a strand of 40 to 60 hairs
• Consult a doctor if more than two hairs remain in the hand after pulling.

The ponytail: an effective visual indicator

Another telltale sign is the ponytail. If it used to be naturally thick, and you can now roll up your elastic several times without effort, this probably reflects a depletion of hair density.

This simple visual cue can be enough to prompt a consultation, according to the dermatologist. Consequently, regular monitoring of this detail helps to detect progressive hair loss.

The advantage of this method is that it’s quick and accessible to everyone. It requires no special equipment, just a little daily attention.

The pull test: an express technique

The dermatologist also recommends an ultra-simple technique: the pull test. Simply grasp a strand of about 40 to 60 hairs, twist slightly and then pull gently.

If more than two hairs remain in your hand, hair loss is considered excessive. This quick test allows you to self-assess your hair density in just a few seconds. It offers a first indication before consulting a specialist.

Possible causes of an excessive fall

Losing a few hairs is a normal part of everyday life. What should raise the alarm is a visible drop in overall density over several weeks. Several factors can explain marked hair loss.

Hormones often play a central role in this phenomenon. Similarly, stress can trigger or aggravate severe hair loss. These two causes are among the most common.

Thyroid disorders or diabetes can also cause excessive hair loss. In addition, certain drug treatments can cause this type of side effect. If you recognize yourself in these symptoms, a medical consultation will identify the cause and enable you to consider appropriate treatment.

Taking care of your hair in 2026 means first and foremost understanding your own body. Observe, test and consult if necessary: these three simple steps will help you preserve your hair over the long term.

• hair loss