Are you experiencing more hair loss than usual lately? Experiencing hair loss can be quite distressing, especially when it occurs suddenly and without any warning. Many people go through this unexpected hair loss at some point in their lives, and one of the most common reasons is a condition known as telogen effluvium. This hair loss goes beyond just thinning hair; it reflects the shock your body undergoes, which can lead to excessive hair fall. But don’t worry; this acute hair loss is reversible with the right treatment. In this detailed blog, we will explore the complexities of telogen effluvium, its causes, symptoms, and available effective treatment options at Evenly Clinic.

What is Telogen Effluvium?

Telogen effluvium is a form of acute hair loss characterized by significant hair shedding. Unlike permanent hair loss conditions like alopecia areata or androgenic alopecia, telogen effluvium is temporary and can be reversed. It occurs when an unusually high number of hair follicles enter the resting (telogen) phase too soon. Typically, about 80-90% of our hair follicles are in the growing (anagen) phase, while the remaining 10-20% are in the resting phase. In the case of telogen effluvium, this balance is disrupted, resulting in a notable increase in the number of hairs in the resting phase.

So, what causes telogen effluvium? Let’s take a closer look at the variety of triggers that disrupt the natural hair growth cycle.

Must Read: Exploring the Types of Alopecia and Effective Treatments

Causes of telogen effluvium?

Telogen effluvium is the most persistent type of hair loss that occurs within 2-3 months of significant physical or emotional stress. It lasts for months or even years in some cases. These include:

• Stress: Stress is a major factor in hair loss among women. Often linked to stress-related conditions, it can push hair follicles into the telogen phase.
• Emotional Trauma: Significant life changes or experiences, such as losing a loved one, going through a divorce, losing a job, or experiencing severe anxiety, can greatly affect the body’s stress hormones, leading to hair loss.
• Nutritional Deficiencies: Insufficient intake of vital nutrients like iron, zinc, or vitamin D can weaken hair follicles, leading to shedding. Women who have recently given birth are especially susceptible to acute hair loss due to hormonal shifts and nutrient depletion.
• Medical Conditions and Medications: Health issues such as thyroid disorders, infections, iron deficiency, high fevers, or other chronic illnesses can result in telogen effluvium. Additionally, certain medications, including antidepressants, blood thinners, and chemotherapy agents, may also disturb the normal hair growth cycle. And taking a high dose of vitamin A can also cause hair loss as a side effect.
• Sudden Weight Loss or Dieting: Extreme dieting or rapid weight loss can steal the necessary nutrients to sustain healthy hair, resulting in acute hair loss.
• Major Surgery: Even minor surgical procedures can provoke a stress response in the body, resulting in increased hair shedding.
• Childbirth: The hormonal changes and physical adjustments that occur during pregnancy and childbirth can sometimes result in postpartum hair loss, a form of acute telogen effluvium.

Recognizing the causes of telogen effluvium can help you identify potential triggers and seek suitable treatment for this hair loss issue.

Telogen Effluvium Symptoms

How can you identify that you are dealing with telogen effluvium rather than another type of hair loss? Here are some key symptoms of telogen effluvium:

• Sudden Hair Shedding: You might notice a significant amount of hair loss, particularly when washing or combing your hair.
• Diffuse Thinning: Rather than experiencing specific patches of hair loss, you may observe a general thinning across your scalp.
• Visible Hair on Pillows or Floors: You may see an unusual amount of hair strands around your home.
• Reduced Hair Volume: Your ponytail may feel less thick, and you might see a decrease in the overall fullness of your hair.
• Lack of Inflammation: Unlike certain scalp issues, telogen effluvium typically doesn’t lead to redness, itching, or flaking.

If these signs sound familiar, it might be time to seek an experienced dermatologist or trichologist.

Stress and Hair Loss in Females: A Closer Look

Stress plays a crucial role in hair loss among women. When we face stress, our bodies produce hormones such as cortisol, which can interfere with the hair growth cycle. This disruption can result in:

• Telogen Effluvium: As discussed earlier, stress is a key factor in triggering acute telogen effluvium.
• Anagen Effluvium: In more severe instances of chronic stress, the hair growth cycle may be cut short, resulting in hair breakage and thinning.

Telogen Effluvium Treatment: Restore your hair’s health

The market offers a plethora of topical medications. Some of the advanced treatment solutions offered by Evenly for treating telogen effluvium treatment, by targeting hair regrowth directly are:

Topical Treatments

• Topical minoxidil: Minoxidil is a dermatologist-recommended hair growth treatment known for promoting hair regrowth by enhancing blood flow to the scalp. When applied directly to areas with thinning hair, it helps prolong the hair growth cycle, gradually restoring thickness and density. It is available in the form of creams, foams, and liquid sprays.
• Finasteride: It is mainly available as an oral medication; finasteride can also be used in a topical form to address hormone-related hair loss. It works by blocking the production of DHT (dihydrotestosterone), a hormone associated with hair thinning.

Advanced telogen effluvium treatment solutions

• PRP Hair Treatment: Platelet-rich plasma therapy is a hair loss treatment that harnesses the growth factors found in your blood to rejuvenate hair follicles and encourage regrowth. This minimally invasive procedure not only enhances scalp health but also promotes thicker, healthier hair.

Must Read: What is PRP Hair Treatment and how does it help hair loss?

• GFC Hair Treatment: Growth Factor Concentrate (GFC) treatment is a more advanced and refined version of PRP. It isolates and concentrates growth factors for even more effective results. GFC speeds up the healing of hair follicles, resulting in improved hair density and quality.

Must Read: What is GFC Hair Treatment: An ultimate solution for hair loss

These targeted treatments, along with expert guidance, can greatly enhance the results of telogen effluvium and help restore your hair’s vitality. At Evenly Clinic, our experienced dermatologists can accurately diagnose the underlying cause of your hair loss and recommend a personalized treatment plan.

Stress Management Techniques

For patients experiencing stress and hair loss in females, we recommend mindfulness, yoga, or treatment to break the stress-hair loss cycle.

Nutritional Counselling

A well-balanced diet, replete with proteins, vitamins, and minerals, is absolutely essential. We guide you on nutrition tailored to combat deficiencies that may contribute to hair loss.

Proactive Steps to Prevent Acute Hair Loss: Telogen Effluvium

This acute hair loss can be caused by a range of factors, but taking proactive steps can greatly lower the chances of acute hair loss and promote healthy regrowth. Here is a detailed step to follow:

• Incorporate foods that are rich in zinc, iron, and vitamins B, C, D, and E to promote strong and healthy hair. If your diet lacks these nutrients, consider consulting a dermatologist for suitable supplements.
• Proper hydration is crucial for maintaining optimal health, which extends to the well-being of your hair. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water each day to keep moisture levels balanced in your scalp and hair.
• High-stress levels can contribute to hair loss, particularly telogen effluvium. Try to include stress-relief activities such as yoga, meditation, exercise, or engaging in hobbies in your daily routine.
• Comb your hair carefully to minimize damage. Women should avoid tight hairstyles that can weaken the connection between the scalp and hair roots.
• Opt for a natural, sulfate-free shampoo and a soft-bristle brush to reduce scalp irritation. Brushing your hair gently in one direction can also help condition and smooth it.
• Regularly massaging your scalp can enhance blood circulation to hair follicles, which strengthens the roots. After washing your hair, use a cotton towel to gently pat it dry, minimizing the risk of breakage.
• Avoid smoking and drinking as it can harm hair follicles and overall hair health.
• Stop using hot water to wash your hair; prefer lukewarm water.
• Avoid wearing tight ponytails or braids, as it can damage hair follicles and slow down the regrowth cycle.
• Limit using styling tools as they can dry out and weaken the hair shaft.
• Minimize sun exposure and stay away from chemical hair products.

Before and After Images of Telogen Effluvium Treatment

If you experience ongoing acute hair loss, it’s advisable to see a dermatologist to determine the root cause. Conditions such as dandruff, scalp psoriasis, or seborrheic dermatitis may require targeted treatment.

Experiencing acute hair loss—telogen effluvium—can be quite distressing, but it is crucial to keep in mind that this condition is usually temporary. By identifying the underlying causes and choosing the right telogen effluvium treatment, you can take charge of your hair health and rebuild your hair growth.

Don’t wait for the problem to worsen—take charge of your hair health today.

If you are worried about hair loss, schedule a consultation with a dermatologist at Evenly Clinic. We will provide an accurate diagnosis, explore your treatment options, and assist you in achieving the healthy, beautiful hair you deserve.

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Frequently Asked Questions

We hope this information is helpful. If you have any skin and hair-related questions or would like to discuss personalized solutions, please reach out to us at 7337899030. Our team of specialists is committed to delivering personalized care tailored to your specific needs. Take the first step towards a healthier, more confident you by scheduling a consultation with us today. Your journey to vibrant skin and stronger hair begins here