A very common reason for hair loss is Telogen Effuvium (TE), it’s second after Androgenic Alopecia (which is genetics/age). It’s normal to lose about 100-150 hairs a day over the entire head, but if you are noticing much more than normal it could be TE. To get a correct diagnosis it’s important to visit a Dermatologist or Dermatology PA, as there are many causes that bring on hair loss & some can be more serious. This type of hair loss occurs when the body brings in lots of stress (physicially, mentally or spiritually). The hair goes into a resting (telogen) phase and stops growing. Our body doesn’t focus energy on hair growth and instead goes toward the stress.
Why: These are the common triggers.
- Medications/Hormones: There are several medicines which can trigger T.E. Instead of listing all of them, it would be wise to look up the package insert on the medications you take. If you noticed the hair loss is about 3 months after you started the med, then it’s worth investigating.
- Diet Change: A drastic diet can put the body under stress and put your hair growth into this resting phase. So, if you recently were on a major diet this can be the culprit. Think back about 3 months… did you lose a lot of weight suddenly? Protein, iron, zinc and B-vitamins are nutrients the hair requires to flourish.
- Stress: A stressful event can be the trigger. Especially, a death, divorce, job loss, finance problems, illness, moving or depression. Covid-19 is an example of an illness that commonly triggers this type of hair loss. Thyroid problems can also be a cause.
- Childbirth: Postpartum hair shedding is also telogen effluvium. It usually starts about 3 months after giving birth and is temporary. It’s due to estrogen levels dropping. By the baby’s 1st birthday the hair is usually back to normal.
What can you do?
- Remove: When the thing that is triggering the telogen effluvium stops so will the resting phase of hair growth. If it’s a medication talk to the prescriber about stopping or switching. Sometimes it’s worth staying on the medication so always check with your provider. Also, remove applying conditioner that is super heavy to roots as this can way hair down not helping the look of hair loss.
- Time: It will pass!! TE usually lasts under 6 months. Please be reassured that T.E. is totally temporary and you will not lose all your hair. If the trigger has been removed it is common for hair to start returning within 3-6 months. If it’s lasting over 6 months it’s considered chronic T.E.
- Labwork/Provider: Getting bloodwork to check thyroid, iron and a basic panel to rule out other illness is a good step to find the cause. When you find the cause it’s easier to correct.
- Nutrients: Getting enough protein, iron and certain supplements can support healthy hair. If you decide to take a supplement I’d recommend Anirva Hair Radiance. We also offer platelet rich plasma (PRP) treatments to stimulate hair growth. These are injections directly into the scalp.
Shanah Gavia, PA-C 