As the world continues to deal with the impact of COVID-19, many individuals have reported experiencing a troubling symptom long after the acute phase of the illness: unwanted hair loss. If you’ve noticed your hair thinning or shedding more than usual after contracting COVID-19, you're not alone. But what exactly is the link between COVID-19 and hair loss, and what can you do about it?
Understanding Post-COVID Hair Loss
Post-viral hair loss is not a new phenomenon. After any illness or physical stress, the body can go into a state of shock, which can lead to telogen effluvium, a temporary hair loss condition. COVID-19, being a significant stressor on the body, has been linked to a sudden increase in hair shedding, especially among those who had severe or prolonged symptoms.
Telogen effluvium occurs when the hair follicles are disturbed by stress or illness, causing a larger-than-usual number of hairs to enter the shedding phase of the hair growth cycle. While it’s normal to shed 50-100 hairs a day, those with telogen effluvium can lose significantly more.
Why Does COVID Cause Hair Loss?
- Fever and Stress: COVID-19 can cause fever, and fever itself is a stressor on the body. Stress, in any form, whether physical (illness) or emotional, can trigger hair follicles to prematurely enter the shedding phase.
- Immune Response: COVID-19 triggers a robust immune response. As the body fights the virus, the immune system can impact the hair follicles, leading to hair shedding.
- Nutrient Deficiency: During illness, appetite often decreases, and eating habits can be disrupted. A lack of essential nutrients like vitamins and minerals (particularly iron, vitamin D, and zinc) can weaken hair and inhibit its regrowth.
- Hospitalization and Medication: Severe cases of COVID-19 sometimes require hospitalization or the use of medications that can also contribute to hair loss. Corticosteroids, which are sometimes used in treating severe COVID-19 symptoms, are known to cause temporary hair shedding as a side effect.
How Long Does Post-COVID Hair Loss Last?
In most cases, the hair loss seen after COVID-19 is temporary. The condition typically resolves within 3 to 6 months once the body has fully recovered from the virus and the stress it caused. For many, hair regrowth begins within this period, although it may take time for the hair to return to its pre-illness fullness.
However, in some cases, the shedding may persist longer, especially for those with pre-existing hair thinning conditions like androgenic alopecia (pattern baldness), where the stress from COVID-19 exacerbates the condition.
How Can You Manage Hair Loss After COVID?
- Maintain a Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, especially those known to promote hair health (like biotin, vitamin D, and iron), can support hair regrowth.
- Gentle Hair Care: Avoid harsh treatments that could further damage your hair, such as excessive heat styling, chemical treatments, or tight hairstyles that cause tension.
- Supplements: If you suspect a nutritional deficiency, consider supplements or consult with a healthcare provider for recommendations tailored to your needs.
- Consult a Specialist: If hair loss persists or is affecting your confidence, it's a good idea to consult with a medical professional specializing in hair loss. At COVID Medical Hair Loss Clinic, we offer tailored solutions to help manage and address hair loss concerns resulting from COVID-19 and other stressors.
- Patience: Remember that recovery from post-COVID hair loss takes time. While the shedding can be alarming, it’s usually temporary, and regrowth is often just around the corner.
When Should You Seek Medical Help?
If your hair loss is excessive or shows no signs of improvement after several months, it may be a good idea to consult a specialist. In some cases, further investigation into underlying conditions may be necessary. A dermatologist or trichologist (a hair and scalp specialist) can provide you with a personalized treatment plan to help you get your hair back to its healthiest state.
Hair Restoration in Newport Beach, CA
While COVID-19 can indeed cause unwanted hair loss, the good news is that this type of hair loss is often temporary. The body can bounce back, and with the right care and time, your hair should begin to regrow. If you’re struggling with post-COVID hair loss, know that you don’t have to face it alone—help is available. Contact COVID Medical Hair Loss Clinic to explore your treatment options and regain your confidence.