Why Is My Hair Falling Out All of a Sudden? 7 Possible Causes You Should Know

Josie Larsson
Apr 29
2 min read

JL Wig Consulting

April 29, 2025

Why Is My Hair Falling Out All of a Sudden?

If you’ve recently noticed an unusual amount of hair shedding on your pillow, in the shower, or in your brush, you’re not alone. Sudden hair loss in women is more common than you think, and while it can feel overwhelming, there are several possible causes that can be addressed with the right support and information.

At JL Wig Consulting, we help women navigate hair loss with dignity, knowledge, and personalized solutions — including regrowth, prevention, and replacement with natural-looking wigs and toppers. Here's what you should know if you're suddenly losing hair.

1. Stress and Trauma (Telogen Effluvium)

One of the most common causes of sudden hair loss is telogen effluvium, a temporary condition triggered by physical or emotional stress. This could include:

Major surgery
Illness (like COVID-19)
Divorce or grief
Childbirth
A significant life change

Hair follicles prematurely enter the "resting" phase, leading to noticeable shedding a few months after the stressor. The good news? It’s usually reversible.

2. Hormonal Changes

Hormones play a powerful role in your hair growth cycle. Sudden shifts — like those from pregnancy, menopause, or stopping birth control — can cause unexpected hair thinning or shedding.

3. Thyroid Imbalances

Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can lead to noticeable hair loss. If you’re also feeling fatigued, gaining or losing weight rapidly, or dealing with mood changes, it’s worth asking your doctor to test your thyroid levels.

4. Nutritional Deficiencies

Hair health is closely tied to nutrition. Low levels of iron, vitamin D, biotin, and protein can weaken hair follicles and lead to sudden shedding. Even crash diets or eating disorders can contribute to hair loss.

5. New Medications

Have you recently started a new prescription? Drugs for depression, blood pressure, acne, or autoimmune disorders can sometimes trigger hair loss as a side effect.

6. Autoimmune Conditions (e.g., Alopecia Areata)

Sudden, patchy hair loss may be a sign of an autoimmune disorder like alopecia areata, where the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles. This condition can come on quickly and should be evaluated by a dermatologist.

7. Scalp Health Issues

A healthy scalp is crucial for hair growth. Conditions like seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, or fungal infections can cause irritation and hair loss. If your scalp feels itchy, flaky, or inflamed, it’s time to get it checked.

What Should You Do If You’re Losing Hair Suddenly?

Don’t panic — Many causes of hair loss are temporary and treatable.
Talk to a medical professional — A dermatologist or trichologist can help diagnose the cause.
Get bloodwork — Checking hormone levels, vitamin deficiencies, and thyroid function is often the first step.
Seek support — Whether you’re considering medical treatment, lifestyle changes, or temporary coverage like wigs or toppers, you don’t have to navigate this alone.

Need Help Navigating Hair Loss?

At JL Wig Consulting, we specialize in helping women feel empowered through every stage of hair loss — whether you're exploring regrowth options, medical solutions, or simply want to feel like yourself again with a natural-looking wig or topper.

Based in Utah | Virtual Consultations Available. Schedule your free consultation

Because confidence doesn’t have to wait.