How to Support Your Hair in Spring

As seasonal weather changes, so does the way our hair behaves. Spring is associated with subtle shifts to the hair growth cycle, as well as noticeable changes in texture, frizz, and the scalp microbiome. It can be empowering to understand the body’s natural response to environmental conditions to better address our hair needs. With the right strategies, hair can remain strong, healthy, and manageable through seasonal transitions.

Each hair follicle cycles independently through four stages:

Most people have around 100,000 hairs on their scalp.¹ Under healthy conditions, it is normal to shed 50–100 hairs every day.² Each strand has its own phase and timeline, which is why hair's overall density typically remains stable. However, multiple factors, including environmental factors like seasonal changes, can impact the hair growth cycle and increase shedding. In spring, when days become longer, temperatures shift, and humidity fluctuates, our hair strands and follicles respond.

Research shows both men and women experience higher telogen rates and shedding during spring, with an even bigger jump in summer.^3,4 This can lead to shedding—but you may not see it until later. Although this change is not fully understood, it may be due to the fact that, as mammals, humans experience their own seasonal shedding cycle related to daylight hours.⁴ From an evolutionary perspective, it may make sense for hair shedding to slow down in winter to help keep us warm, then increase again as the weather becomes warmer. 

While this might seem discouraging, it’s not something to stress about; studies have shown that the growth (or anagen) phase tends to increase as we move into spring and summer as well, working to make up the difference.³

Spring also introduces several variables, outside of natural seasonal shedding, that may affect the hair and scalp.

Longer daylight and more outside activities mean more ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure. UV light can break down keratin, fade color, and reduce natural hair oils, resulting in dry, brittle hair.^5,6,7,8 When hair follicles are exposed to excess UV light, oxidative stress increases, which reduces growth signals and can lead to premature shedding.

Increased humidity increases moisture absorption in the hair shaft, which causes it to swell and alters the bonds of the hair shaft that create structure.⁹ This leads to frizz—especially in wavy or curly hair. When increased moisture in the hair shaft also combines with UV exposure, hair can experience even more protein damage, free radical formation, and keratin degradation.¹⁰

Warmer weather can cause changes in the scalp. When skin temperatures rise, it stimulates increased sebum (oil) production and shifts pH levels.^11,12 This impacts each hair type differently. For straight hair, scalp oil spreads quickly down the strands, leading to limp or oily hair. For curls and coils, the scalp may be oily while the ends stay dry.¹³

Warmer and more humid conditions may also encourage shifts in the scalp microbiome, that can cause an overgrowth of microbes that are commonly found on the scalp. One example is Malassezia, which can contribute to scalp irritation and impact hair health.^14,15

Spring hair care does not require an entirely new routine—just a few thoughtful adjustments aligned with environmental demands and hair type. Because humidity and UV exposure collectively weaken hair proteins and disrupt bonds,^5,6,7,10 support hair with:

Your hair type is a useful factor to consider when figuring out your spring hair care strategy. 

Straight hair: More prone to oiliness in spring.

Wavy hair: Frizz is the main concern.

Curly and coily hair: Scalp may be oily while ends stay dry.

Brush or detangle to help distribute natural oils along the shaft.¹³

Wet hair exposed to sunlight generates more free radical damage, so drying hair before extended outdoor exposure is helpful.¹⁰ Further protect hair by wearing hats and other head coverings or using products formulated with UV-filtering ingredients, especially during peak sunlight hours.^7,8,16

Incorporate products that support the scalp microbiome, avoid over-washing, and periodically exfoliate and massage the scalp using products like Nutrafol’s Build-Up Blocker Exfoliating Scalp Mask, which dissolves excess sebum and balances oil production.¹⁷

The good news is that with a few seasonal tweaks—UV protection, microbiome support, scalp care, and hair-type-specific moisture—you can work with your biology instead of against it.

Yes—research suggests that seasonal shedding is a normal, cyclical part of the hair growth process.^2,3 This is considered a natural biological rhythm, not a cause for concern. Because each follicle cycles independently, overall density typically remains stable in healthy conditions.¹

Increased humidity is the main culprit. When moisture levels in the air rise, hair shafts absorb that moisture and swell, which disrupts the structural bonds responsible for keeping strands smooth.⁹

Yes—UV radiation may contribute to changes in hair structure, including dryness, reduced strength, loss of color, and increased brittleness.^5,6,7 Wearing a hat or using hair products formulated with UV-filtering ingredients can help support hair during extended sun exposure.⁷

Warmer temperatures may stimulate increased oil production and shifts in scalp pH, which can affect the scalp microbiome.^11,12 A scalp care routine that supports the microbiome, avoids over-washing, and includes periodic exfoliation may help maintain a healthy scalp.

They do. Straight hair tends to become oily more quickly in spring, as oil travels easily down smooth strands, so lightweight, microbiome-supportive shampoos can help maintain balanced oil. Wavy hair is particularly prone to frizz as humidity rises, so hydrating conditioners and smoothing leave-ins are especially helpful. Curly and coily hair types may experience an oily scalp alongside dry ends, making moisture retention a priority; hydrating shampoos, conditioning masks, and targeted oils applied from mid-shaft to ends can help. Brushing or detangling curly hair also helps distribute natural oils from root to tip.¹³

Seasonal shifts in shedding are generally normal and temporary. If shedding feels excessive, prolonged, or is accompanied by noticeable thinning, it may be worth speaking with a dermatologist or healthcare provider to rule out other contributing factors. For those who want additional support during seasonal transitions, a hair health supplement formulated to target multiple root causes of thinning, like Nutrafol Hair Growth Nutraceuticals, may also be worth exploring.