Hair Fall vs Hair Breakage — The Real Difference (And Why It Matters for Treatment)

Hair fall and hair breakage are often used interchangeably — but they are not the same problem.
They are caused by different factors, affect different parts of the hair and most importantly, require very different treatments.

You may believe your hair is “falling out” when it’s actually snapping midway. Or you may try repairing damaged hair when the real issue lies at the scalp and follicle level.

Understanding the difference between hair fall vs hair breakage is the most critical step towards choosing the right routine, the right products, and the right ingredients.

Let’s break it down with a science-backed explanation.

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Chapter 1: What Is Hair Fall?

Hair fall refers to hair shedding from the root.
This means the entire strand detaches from the follicle, usually with a visible white bulb at the end.

Signs of Hair Fall

• Excess hair on pillow or shower drain

• Widening hair part

• Reduced hair volume

• Visible scalp

• Thinning ponytail

• Hair strands with a white root bulb

Why Hair Fall Happens

Hair fall usually occurs due to:

• Hormonal imbalance

• Stress (Telogen Effluvium)

• Nutritional deficiencies

• DHT sensitivity

• Thyroid issues

• Post-partum shedding

• Scalp infection or inflammation

• Genetics

• Harsh salon treatments

• Poor scalp blood circulation

The Science Behind Hair Fall

Hair fall is linked to the hair growth cycle.
When follicles become weak, stressed, or inflamed, they prematurely enter the telogen (shedding) phase, causing hair to fall out from the root.

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Chapter 2: What Is Hair Breakage?

Hair breakage happens when the hair strand snaps along its length, not from the scalp.

Signs of Hair Breakage

• Short, uneven hair pieces

• Flyaways

• Rough or jagged ends

• Frizz and split ends

• Hair feels weak, brittle, or stretchy

• Hair breaks while combing or styling

• No white root bulb at the end

Why Hair Breakage Happens

Hair breakage is caused by damage to the hair shaft, commonly due to:

• Heat styling (straighteners, curlers, dryers)

• Hard water

• Over-washing

• Harsh shampoos

• Hair colouring & bleaching

• Keratin or rebonding treatments

• Tight hairstyles

• Sun exposure

• Skipping conditioner

• Protein imbalance

• Brushing wet hair

Hair breakage is a fibre damage problem, not a scalp issue.

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Chapter 3: The Biggest Difference — Where the Damage Happens

• Hair fall = Root problem
  The issue starts at the follicle.

• Hair breakage = Strand problem
  The damage occurs on the hair shaft.

This single difference changes the entire treatment approach.

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Chapter 4: How to Identify Hair Fall vs Hair Breakage (Simple Test)

The Strand Test

Pick up a fallen hair strand and observe:

• White bulb at one end → Hair fall

• Flat or jagged ends, no bulb → Hair breakage

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Chapter 5: How to Treat Hair Fall — Science-Backed Solutions

Since hair fall is a follicle-level concern, treatment must focus on scalp health and root strength.

1. Strengthen Hair Follicles

Look for proven actives such as:

• Redensyl

• Hairiline

• Biotin

• Niacinamide

• Amino acids

• Peptides

• Rosemary extract

👉 Many growth serums, including The Skin Story Hair Growth Serum with Redensyl & Hairiline, are formulated to support stronger follicles and healthier regrowth.

These ingredients help:

• Activate follicle stem cells

• Improve scalp blood flow

• Extend the growth phase

• Reduce hair thinning

2. Improve Scalp Health

• Use a gentle sulphate-free shampoo

• Treat dandruff or flaking early

• Use scalp cleansing masks if needed

• Exfoliate oily scalps weekly

3. Manage Stress

Stress-induced shedding is extremely common.

• Sleep 7–8 hours

• Walk daily

• Practice deep breathing

• Reduce caffeine

• Focus on relaxation

Your hair responds directly to stress hormones.

4. Correct Nutritional Deficiencies

Hair health depends on:

• Iron

• Vitamin D

• Omega-3

• Protein

Hair is made of keratin (protein) — adequate intake is essential.

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Chapter 6: How to Treat Hair Breakage — What Actually Works

Hair breakage requires strengthening and protecting the hair shaft.

1. Use a Conditioner Every Wash

Conditioners smooth the cuticle and reduce snapping.
Look for:

• Keratin

• Argan oil

• Shea butter

• Moringa

• Cationic conditioners

👉 A strengthening conditioner from The Skin Story range can help reduce dryness and breakage.

2. Weekly Hair Mask

Masks deliver deeper repair.
Choose formulas with:

• Keratin

• Ceramides

• Amino acids

• Proteins

• Nourishing oils

3. Always Use a Heat Protectant

Heat styling is the No. 1 cause of hair breakage in India.
Protect hair from:

• Straighteners

• Curlers

• Blow dryers

4. Avoid Brushing Wet Hair

Wet hair is weakest.
Use a wide-tooth comb only when semi-dry.

5. Avoid Tight Hairstyles

Constant tension leads to mechanical breakage.

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Chapter 7: Can Hair Fall and Breakage Happen Together?

Yes — and it’s very common.

Examples:

• Stress causes hair fall

• Heat styling causes breakage

• Colouring can cause both

You must treat roots and lengths together.

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Chapter 8: Hair Fall vs Hair Breakage — Quick Comparison

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Conclusion

Knowing whether you’re dealing with hair fall or hair breakage empowers you to choose the right solution.

• Root problem → Focus on scalp and follicle health

• Strand problem → Focus on repair, conditioning, and protection

For most people, it’s a combination of both. With the right habits and science-backed products, stronger, fuller, healthier hair is achievable.

Begin your hair recovery journey with gentle shampoos, nourishing conditioners, and growth serums powered by proven actives like Redensyl and Hairiline — designed to support healthier hair from root to tip.