Curly hair has a special charm. It’s full of shape, bounce, and personality. But it also comes with unique struggles, especially when it comes to shedding and breakage. Many people with curly hair notice more hair in their brush, sink, or shower drain and wonder, “Is this normal?” The answer is: it can be, but excessive shedding may be a sign that your curls require some extra care.
Hair loss in curly hair is common because curls are naturally dry and delicate. The spiral shape of curly strands makes it harder for natural oils from the scalp to travel down the hair shaft. This leaves curls dry and more likely to snap. Add in detangling, styling, or heat—and it’s easy to see how shedding can go from mild to frustrating.
The good news is, there are simple ways to help. You can reduce shedding in curly hair by treating it gently, providing it with the proper nutrients, and maintaining the health of your scalp and strands. In this guide, we’ll break it all down for you in plain, simple terms.
Why Curly Hair Sheds More Easily
Let’s start by understanding why curly hair seems to shed or break more than other types. If you have curls, coils, or waves, these are the main reasons your hair may be falling out or thinning:
1. Curly Hair is Naturally Fragile
Each bend in your curl is a weak spot. These twists can break more easily than straight strands. The curlier your hair, the more chances for breakage, especially if it’s dry or pulled on too hard.
2. Dryness
Curly hair tends to be drier because oils from the scalp have a hard time reaching the ends. Dry strands are brittle and more likely to snap, especially during combing or styling.
3. Detangling and Styling
Curls can tangle fast. And tugging at those tangles, especially when the hair is dry, can lead to lots of breakage. Even brushing wet curls without enough slip (like conditioner) can pull hair out from the root.
4. Scalp Buildup and Conditions
If your scalp has product buildup, dandruff, or inflammation, it can impede hair growth and lead to shedding. Itchy, flaky scalp? That’s a sign your hair roots may be in trouble.
5. Hormonal or Genetic Issues
Hair thinning and loss can also be linked to health issues, hormonal imbalances, or a family history of hair loss. For example, stress, thyroid problems, and postpartum shifts often lead to hair fall. Some people also inherit hair thinning from their parents.
Understanding the root causes helps you know where to start—and how to take better care of your curls moving forward.
How to Reduce Shedding: Best Practices That Work
Shedding a few strands daily is normal. However, if your hair feels thinner or you’re experiencing more breakage than usual, here are some adjustments that can make a significant difference. These are simple, proven ways to reduce shedding in curly hair while supporting new growth.
1. Be Gentle When Detangling
This is the number one rule. Always detangle your hair when it’s wet and has conditioner in it. The conditioner provides slip, making it easier for your comb or fingers to glide through without tugging.
Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers. Start from the ends and work your way up.
- Detangle in sections. This helps you stay gentle and avoid pulling out large clumps.
- Don’t detangle dry hair unless you’re doing it with oil or a detangling spray.
2. Keep Curls Moisturized
Dry curls break fast. Hydrated curls are more elastic and stronger. To keep your curls soft and happy:
Use a rich leave-in conditioner after washing.
Grow Long Super-Fast Strength Leave-In Conditioner: With Caffeine, Ginseng, and Vitamin E, this Leave-In Conditioner from Marc Anthony detangles, smooths frizz, and gives hair the strength it needs to help reduce split ends and breakage.
- Deep condition once a week.
- Spray with water or a water-based refresher between washes to keep moisture levels up.
3. Use Protective Styles (But Not Too Tight!)
Protective styles reduce breakage by keeping hair tucked away. However, be cautious—tight styles, such as braids or buns, can tug at your edges and cause further damage.
- Choose loose braids, buns, or twists.
- Don’t wear the same style for too long without giving your scalp a break.
- Always moisturize your hair before styling it.
4. Care for Your Scalp
A healthy scalp grows healthy curls. If your scalp is itchy, flaky, or covered in buildup, your hair may suffer. Try:
- Washing your scalp with a clarifying shampoo once every two to four weeks.
- Use a gentle sulfate-free shampoo in between.
Massage your scalp 2–3 times a week using your fingertips or with Jamaican black castor oil to help with blood flow.
This organic castor oil offers many benefits for your hair. It repairs damaged strands, strengthens roots, and helps prevent hair loss. Achieve stronger and more vibrant locks.
5. Avoid Heat and Harsh Chemicals
Heat tools like flat irons and curling wands can fry your curls. Once the curl pattern is damaged, breakage follows. To protect your strands:
- Air-dry or use a diffuser on a cool setting.
- Avoid chemical relaxers or dyes, or at least space them out.
- If you must use heat, apply a heat protectant every time.
6. Feed Your Hair from the Inside
Strong hair starts with a healthy body. Make sure you’re getting these nutrients from food or supplements (check with a doctor first if you’re unsure):
- Biotin – Found in eggs, sweet potatoes, and almonds.
- Omega-3 – Found in fatty fish, chia seeds, and walnuts.
- Iron – Found in spinach, red meat, and lentils.
- Vitamin D – Your body makes it in the sun, but you can also get it from fortified foods or supplements.
Additionally, drink enough water daily. Hydration supports every part of your body—including your hair.
Lifestyle Habits That Support Hair Growth
Outside of your wash day routine, your daily habits also affect your hair.
1. Protect Hair While Sleeping
Loose curls rubbing against cotton at night can lead to frizz and breakage. Use a satin or silk pillowcase or wrap your hair in a satin scarf or bonnet.
The surface of the Silk Pillowcase is smooth and shiny, reducing friction on beautiful curly hairstyles and the face. The pillow covers does not absorb any moisture after styling for one night, keeping the hair and skin smooth and shiny, without entanglement.
2. Manage Stress
Long-term stress can trigger shedding. Even a few minutes of deep breathing or walking outside can help lower stress and support your body (and hair).
3. Stay Hydrated
Your hair needs water just like your skin and muscles. Drink water throughout the day—especially in dry or hot weather.
4. Eat a Balanced Diet
Hair is made of protein. Make sure you’re getting enough healthy protein, fats, and leafy greens. Eating well is one of the most powerful ways to support hair strength naturally.
When to See a Doctor
If you’ve tried all the above and are still experiencing significant hair loss, it may be time to consult a healthcare professional for a checkup. A doctor or dermatologist can help rule out issues like:
- Hormonal imbalance
- Thyroid problems
- Iron deficiency
- Scalp infections
Hair loss can sometimes be a sign of a deeper issue. Don’t ignore it if your gut says something’s off.
Conclusion
Dealing with hair loss in curly hair can feel discouraging, but don’t give up. Your curls are not broken—they just need the proper care and a bit of patience. Be gentle. Stay consistent. Select products and routines that suit your hair type, and nourish your body from the inside out. Growth takes time, but with the proper steps, your curls can bounce back stronger than ever.
