Here is something else to keep in mind when trying to evaluate what is happening with your hair.

Your locks go through two stages during the growth and shedding of the hair follicle: The anagen-growing phase, which usually lasts up to three years, and the telogen, or resting, phase, which lasts about three months during which the root of the hair follicle shrivels up and falls out normally.

About 10 percent of our hair is in the telogen phase all the time, which translates to the normal loss of 50 to 100 hairs a day.

There are times when this hair growth rhythm can be altered. As we go through life we can endure shocks to our system from a high fever, sudden weight loss, surgery, or severe illness.

This can result in the loss of up to 40 percent of our hair, a condition called telogen effluvium.

The good news is that no special treatment is necessary and the hair comes back on its own after a few months.