There’s no way around it: hair shedding is stressful. Even worse is shedding that seems to come out of nowhere and keeps going and going for what seems like months on end. Although hair fallout isn’t uncommon and happens to many people over the course of their lives, you may still feel like you’re the only one experiencing it. And not being able to identify the source of shedding is another stress because, well, how can you stop something that you can’t figure out? 

There are several reasons why you may be losing hair. And your first solution should be to make an appointment with a board-certified dermatologist who can examine you, discuss what’s been going on in your life, and come up with a diagnosis and a solution. But if you’re curious about some of the biggest culprits behind shedding, Master Stylist Scott Williams , owner of Studio S  in Brooklyn, N.Y., and Lakeland, Fla., is here to provide some answers. 

“Over the years I have had many a concerned guest fretting over hair fallout,” Williams said. “While I wish I could say there is one simple step to correct this, I have learned from more than a decade of experience that hair is a thing of details and it is often many little things that can make a big difference. I will also preface by saying that hair fallout is completely normal. The growth cycle of hair is either growing, dormant, or dying—AKA falling out. Losing hair is inevitable.”

Additionally, Williams adds, if you only shampoo once or twice a week (or less) those fallen follicles get trapped in your hair and are not released until shampoo day — thus it may seem like you have lost a large amount, while in reality it is a completely normal amount.

With that in mind, these are the top four reasons hair fallout may be happening, based on Williams’ experiences with clients.

“Over shampooing — that is, more than 2 to 3 times a week — is one of the leading issues I have found that contributes to hair shedding,” Williams said. “Even the best-quality shampoo is meant to cleanse the hair, which strips it of the natural oils. This leaves the hair dry and brittle and more susceptible to breakage. I try to guide my clients to a routine of no more than twice a week and less for more coarse or curly-haired guests (like me!).”

No, Williams isn’t suggesting that you never brush your hair — but, rather, that like shampooing you avoid excessive brushing. 

“While Marcia Brady made us think 100 strokes was the way to go, over brushing can lead to more fallout,” Williams said. “Even more important is the type of brush you use. I always recommend a soft-bristled brush like the Wet Brush , which helps to work out tangles without putting too much pressure on your strands. Also be sure to detangle starting from the bottom working toward the root.”

Love a fun hair style? Fantastic — just be sure to avoid overly tight styles, especially if you are concerned about hair fallout. 

“Tight buns, ponies, and clips can put your hair’s elasticity to the test,” Williams said. “While the occasional high pony should be fine, wearing your hair in such a way on a daily basis can lead to fallout. Even worse is putting your hair up while it’s still wet. HARD NOPE! Wet hair is when your locks are at their most vulnerable so I never recommend tying back wet hair or even sleeping with your hair wet.”

You may think rapid weight loss is good for your health, but when you deprive yourself of essential nutrients, you’re also starving your hair of nourishment — and this can lead to hair shedding. 

“Time after time I have had guests shed large amounts of hair after a major weight loss (even sometimes with not so major loss),” Williams said. “My recommendations for these guests are always to just treat their hair with the utmost care, avoid flat irons, use strengthening shampoo and conditioners, and consult a doctor for any supplemental recommendations that could help. While this type of hair fallout can be very discouraging, and the regrowth can be slow, I have seen many clients through to the other side where eventually things go back to normal.”

Remember: hair loss can be a completely normal occurrence and one that rights itself with a little time and patience. In the meantime, try to figure out the source of your shedding, whether it is weight loss, styling, excessive stress, or another common culprit, and visit a trusted dermatologist who can help guide you. 

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Lisa Fogarty is a lifestyle writer and reporter based in New York who covers health, wellness, relationships, sex, beauty, and parenting.