Hair loss, a common worry of people of all ages, is a growing concern these days. Telogen effluvium is a type of hair loss that usually goes unrecognized due to a lack of awareness. This type of hair loss is distressing, yet the encouraging news is that it’s generally temporary and possible to treat it through correct care. In this blog, we will investigate what telogen effluvium means, its causes, symptoms, and treatments, along with tips to promote hair regrowth.
What is Telogen Effluvium?
A disruption in the normal hair growth cycle causes a condition known as telogen effluvium. This is a hair loss type in which a higher number of hairs than usual enter into the telogen resting phase. As per NCBI, close to 10-15% of our hair is in this phase, and the rest 90% is actively growing. In telogen effluvium patients, an elevated number of hair follicles reaches the resting phase, causing increased hair loss.
Unlike androgenetic alopecia (pattern baldness), this condition leads to thinning of hair instead of complete bald patches. This thinning usually has an effect on the whole scalp, making hair appear less dense and full.
Causes of Telogen Effluvium
There are numerous causes that can lead to telogen effluvium, which are usually associated with physical or emotional stressors impacting the hair growth cycle. Some of them are:
- Physical stress:
This type of hair loss can be caused by surgery, illness, high fever, or even quick weight loss. During these times, the body’s focus shifts from hair health which leads to a temporary pause in the function of hair growth. - Emotional stress:
Certain trauma events, including divorce, a death in the family, or major life changes, could result in telogen effluvium hair loss. - Hormonal changes:
Pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, or birth control pills can all affect the hair growth cycle. - Nutritional deficiencies:
The absence of important vitamins and minerals, including iron, zinc, and vitamin D, can affect hair health, causing this hair condition. - Medications:
Telogen effluvium hair loss is a possible side effect associated with medications for blood pressure, depression, and chemotherapy. - Thyroid disorders:
Studies indicate that this hair loss condition may result from hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.
Telogen Effluvium Treatment
Even though this condition can be worrying, it is generally reversible with the right care. The essential part of treating this condition is to find and address the primary cause. Few of the treatment options are listed below:
Treat the Underlying Cause
The first action in telogen effluvium treatment is to find and manage the trigger. If the reason is a deficiency in nutrition, improving your diet along with supplement use might help. In the same way, if this condition is due to a thyroid disorder, the right treatment for telogen effluvium hair loss would focus on managing thyroid.
Reduce Stress
Stress management techniques like meditation, workout routines, and relaxation therapies help manage emotional and physical stress that can help manage this condition.
Improve Nutrition
A hair-healthy diet that incorporates important vitamins and minerals is vital for your health. Iron-rich foods, lean proteins, leafy greens, and omega-3 fatty acids can support hair growth and treat telogen effluvium hair loss.
Topical Treatments
Several people choose to use minoxidil, a topical solution that encourages hair regrowth, as an over-the-counter treatment. Though minoxidil is generally applied for other types of hair loss, it might be helpful in telogen effluvium regrowth, too.
Remedies for Telogen Effluvium Hair Loss
Apart from addressing the fundamental cause, we can take other supportive measures that will help with the treatment for telogen effluvium hair loss. Telogen effluvium hair loss can have its root cause addressed by using scalp massages, which improve blood circulation and stimulate hair follicles. Gentle shampoos without chemicals can help avoid hair irritation and support hair regrowth. Adding biotin, keratin, and essential nutrients to supplements may further advance hair health. In case the condition still persists, it’s better to see a dermatologist for personalized telogen effluvium treatment.
Conclusion
Although this hair loss condition is a treatable one, it’s important to realize that it is usually temporary. The telogen effluvium regrowth phase (3-6 months) usually starts after the underlying cause has been resolved. During the telogen effluvium regrowth phase, it is usual for new hairs to feel fine or thinner than they usually do. With time, these hairs will thicken and will become denser. The best telogen effluvium treatment can enable your hair to recover its strength and health, which will improve your confidence and overall health.
References
https://www.mhtaclinic.com/blog/understanding-hair-loss-effluvium-causes-symptoms-and-treatment/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4606321/
https://patient.info/skin-conditions/telogen-effluvium
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321590
