Hair Breakage vs Hair Loss

Hair Breakage & Hair Loss Explained At Elements Hair Salon In Oxted

If you've noticed a change in your hair, it may be due to hair breakage rather than hair loss. These terms are often confused due to the similar affect they appear to cause. At Elements Hair, Beauty & Lifestyle Salon in Oxted, we are experts in all things hair. We're here to explain to you the difference between hair breakage and hair loss, and what you can do to reduce some of the changes you may be noticing.

On average, we naturally lose around 100 strands of hair a day as part of the natural hair growth cycle. If you've noticed more hair circling the drain after the shower or coming out in your brush, the following could be reasons why...

The Difference Between Hair Breakage & Hair Loss

Hair loss is when the entire hair follicle falls out from the root. Whereas, hair breakage is when hair snaps and breaks off at some point along the strand. Overall, both hair loss and hair breakage can look like our hair is falling out as strands (full or partial) will come out and volume will be lost.

Hair loss typically occurs from internal factors, while hair breakage is caused by external factors. This means that hair loss can be due to illness, thyroid disorder, cancer treatment, medication, alopecia, surgery genetics, hormone changes (such as the menopause) or nutritional deficiencies. It is rare that hair loss is caused by stresses such as work - it tends to be major stresses such as PTSD that causes hair loss. If you believe you are experiencing hair loss, it's best to talk to your GP to see whether there is an underlying problem.

We will delve a little deeper into the causes of hair breakage, as often these can be avoided.

Hair Breakage From Over-Processing

Bleaching can result in your hair being over-processed if done wrong. If you've had a lightening service, you will likely notice some hair breakage around the face - this is normal. However, if you are noticing excessive breakage throughout your hair then that's when there may be a problem. This would mean that your hair colourist is not bleaching your hair safely. That's why you should always visit Elements Hairdressing Salon in Surrey for you hair colour as maintaining the condition of your hair is our top priority.

For all-over blonde root touch-ups or highlights, we will only treat new growth and avoid applying bleach onto areas that have previously been bleached. Overlapping bleach on areas that have already been treated can cause damage to the hair such as over-processing and then hair breakage!

Hair Breakage From Over Styling

It's not just heat damage from styling tools that can cause hair breakage... Even wearing your hair in a tight ponytail or scraped back with a headband can cause damage to your hair. If you're noticing breakage in a certain patch of your hair, it may be due to the hairstyle you wear most often. Tight hairbands can cause the hair strand to snap where the hairband sits. Tension at the hairline from tight hairstyles can also pull your hair out and even cause hair loss such as traction alopecia.

Be careful when styling your hair. Try to avoid tight hairstyles, Velcro rollers and brushing your hair too roughly where possible. If you have to use heated styling tools such as hair straighteners, curling irons or blow driers, make sure to always use heat protectant.

Hair Breakage From Over Proteinising

Keratin is a protein that is found naturally in your hair. It works to keep your hair healthy and strong. Keratin treatments can also be used to smooth your hair. However, adding too much keratin to your hair can make your hair brittle - especially if you have coarse of textured hair. If you've had any recent chemical treatments, bond building treatments or use any hair products that may contain keratin, you must let your hair stylist know so that we can best treat and look after your hair!

A lot of shampoos and conditioners contain keratin now. It's worth checking whether your hair care contains bond builders like this as you shouldn't be using them every day! This may be causing your hair to be more prone to breakage. Opt for shampoos and conditioners that are hydrating rather than bond building. Leave the keratin treatments to the professionals so that we can assess whether they're suitable for your hair first.

Consultations At Elements Hair Salon In Surrey

If you're concerned about the health of your hair, please book a consultation at Elements Hair, Beauty & Lifestyle Salon in Oxted. During your consultation, we will assess your hair and scalp to recommend the best plan to encourage your hair to grow back happy and healthy once more.

To book your appointment, please call us on 01883 714 072 or book online using the pop-up button at the side of the page.