Hair care for sisters

q: I am having a problem with my hair shedding year-round. I see a stylist every two weeks. Everyone says that it is normal for my hair to shed. I feel like it sheds too much. I moisturize my hair several times during the week. I have medications that I take, and I am not sure if shedding is related to the medications or not. Is there something that I can do to help with shedding?

Tirelessly Shedding, Fort Worth, Texas

a: There are certain factors that one must consider. First, hair growth is influenced by many things: age, stress, gender, type of hair, heredity and health. All have a bearing on the duration of hair life, and don't forget the seasons of the year. The average shedding is between 50 to 80 strands of hair daily. My suggestion would be to collect your hair over the course of the week, consult your stylist and show him or her your hair loss. If the amount of shedding is more than normal, you may want to consult your doctor and ask about the possible side effects of the medications that you are taking.

Lona K. Wilson, celebrity hair stylist, Chicago

Got a hair problem? Write to Getting to the Root at www.ebony.com.

COPYRIGHT 2006 Johnson Publishing Co.
COPYRIGHT 2008 Gale, Cengage Learning