Hair surgeon points out the worst enemy of summer hair: “It’s the fault of seasonal effluvium”

With the arrival of intense summer heat, there’s a health issue that often goes unnoticed but can lead to hair loss if not addressed in time. To understand how summer affects our hair, Diario AS spoke with Dr. Julieta Pacheco Alemán, a hair transplant surgeon and aesthetic physician, and director of Capilando. Her message is clear: summer doesn’t have to be your hair’s worst enemy—if you take the right precautions and seek expert advice when needed.

Q: Is it true we lose more hair in the summer?

A: Yes, it’s true. Many people notice increased hair shedding during summer, especially toward the end of the season. This is known as seasonal shedding, and it’s influenced by hormonal changes, more sun exposure, and increased sweating. The problem arises when normal shedding is mistaken for the onset of alopecia, and valuable time is lost before treatment begins.

Q: What’s the biggest threat to our hair in summer?

A: It’s not just one thing—summer brings a combination of stressors for our hair:

Many patients assume seasonal shedding will stop on its own, but that’s not always the case. In our clinic, we see many situations where early medical evaluation could have prevented more serious hair loss.

Q: What are the most common hair issues you see during this season?

A: Severe dryness, split ends, scalp irritation, sweat-induced dermatitis, and sunburns. And of course, more noticeable hair loss. If left untreated, these issues can speed up early-stage alopecia.

Q: Does pool chlorine contribute to hair loss?

A: Yes. Chlorine dries out the hair fiber, disrupts the scalp’s natural barrier, and in people who are prone to it, can worsen dermatitis that leads to hair loss. It’s not the only factor, but it definitely doesn’t help.

Q: Should we wear hats? What kind?

A: Absolutely. A hat is the simplest form of sun protection for your scalp. Choose one made of breathable fabric, with a wide brim and light colors to reflect sunlight. Avoid tightly woven synthetic materials—they trap heat and increase sweating.

Q: There are more and more summer hair care products—are any of them truly effective?

A: UV-protective sprays can help shield the hair fiber, but they don’t replace proper hydration or treat the root cause of hair loss. If shedding is excessive, the most effective step is to consult a specialist. Treatments like mesotherapy, platelet-rich plasma, or custom medical therapies can make a real difference. Without a proper diagnosis, cosmetic products often waste money and delay necessary care.

Q: What happens if your scalp gets sunburned?

A: Besides being painful, sunburn can inflame hair follicles and cause localized hair loss. Repeated burns increase the risk of long-term damage and, in extreme cases, scarring that prevents new hair from growing.

Q: What steps should we take to protect our scalp during summer activities?

A: Stay hydrated, wear a hat in direct sunlight, rinse your hair with fresh water after swimming in the pool or ocean, use hair-specific sun protection, and always dry your hair thoroughly to prevent fungal infections.

Q: Do people undergoing hair treatments or transplants need to take special precautions in summer?

A: Yes. After a hair transplant, it’s crucial to protect the area from direct sun for at least the first few months. Avoid swimming in pools or the ocean for about 30 days. And if you’re undergoing treatments like mesotherapy or taking oral medications, it’s best to have a check-up before going on vacation to adjust your care plan. Summer doesn’t have to be harmful to your hair, as long as you take the right steps and consult a specialist when in doubt. At Capilando, we offer free diagnoses and personalized treatments because every head of hair has its own story.

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