Covid-19 Hair Loss

Did you know? Hair loss is not uncommon after a significant stressor to the body (i.e. an illness like Covid-19). Typically the hair loss occurs weeks to months after the infection and is referred to as telogen effluvium (TE) or "shock loss." In TE, the hair follicles prematurely transition from the active growth phase (anagen) to the resting phase (telogen). Hairs are then typically in the telogen phase for 3 months, before they are shed. Hair loss occurs as a diffuse pattern of global thinning, with a positive hair pull test. TE is self-limited and hair re-growth will occur, but it may take 4-6 months to notice.

What can you do if you are experiencing TE? Be patient, hair re-growth takes time. Be gentle with your hair. Hair is most fragile when it is wet so be careful combing or brushing and don't sleep on wet hair. Consider Nutraceuticals that are specifically made to target some of the key issues associated with hair loss. My favorite Nutraceutical is Nutrafol that is made with adaptogens which help balance stress hormones and promote a healthy hair growth cycle. You can also come in for PRP (platelet rich plasma) injections. PRP is composed of growth factors obtained from your own platelets. These growth factors are then injected into the scalp, around the follicles, and also help to promote a healthy hair growth cycle.