Many people experience increased hair shedding following a COVID-19 infection. Reports indicate that 20% to 73% of individuals notice hair loss after being sick with COVID-19, confirming it as a recognized post-viral symptom.
Understanding Telogen Effluvium
The primary type of hair loss observed after COVID-19 is telogen effluvium. This temporary condition involves excessive shedding of hair that prematurely entered its resting phase. Hair follicles normally cycle through three stages: active growth (anagen), transitional (catagen), and resting or shedding (telogen).
In a healthy scalp, 85% to 90% of hairs are in the anagen phase, with only 10% to 15% in the telogen phase. Telogen effluvium causes a significant number of growing hairs to suddenly enter the resting phase. This results in noticeable hair thinning across the entire scalp, differing from other conditions like male pattern baldness or alopecia areata. Hair loss usually becomes apparent two to four months after the triggering event, as resting hairs take time to shed.
Why COVID Triggers Hair Loss
COVID-19 triggers telogen effluvium through the physiological stress it imposes on the body. A significant illness, especially one with fever, inflammation, or severe symptoms, can disrupt the normal hair growth cycle. The body prioritizes fighting infection, diverting energy from non-essential functions like hair growth. This “shock to the system” prompts a larger proportion of hair follicles to prematurely enter the resting (telogen) phase.
The inflammatory response and stress hormones, such as cortisol, during an infection can also directly impact hair follicles. These biological signals can influence follicular stem cells and alter metabolism within the follicles, leading to early termination of the active growth phase. When the body recovers from acute illness, these prematurely resting hairs begin to shed. This shedding can occur regardless of COVID-19 infection severity, meaning even those with mild symptoms may experience it.
Managing Post-COVID Hair Shedding
Managing post-COVID hair shedding involves supportive measures and patience. A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients benefits overall hair health and regrowth. Foods with protein, iron, zinc, biotin, and vitamins (B, C, D, E) are important, as deficiencies can affect hair growth. Examples include eggs, leafy greens, fatty fish, nuts, and seeds.
Managing stress through techniques like adequate sleep, physical activity, yoga, or meditation can also support recovery, as both physical and emotional stress can exacerbate hair shedding. Gentle hair care practices include avoiding harsh treatments, excessive heat styling, and tight hairstyles that strain hair follicles. Telogen effluvium is temporary; hair typically regrows within several months, with full density returning over a longer period.
When to Consult a Doctor
While post-COVID hair shedding is usually temporary and resolves on its own, medical consultation is advisable in specific situations. If hair loss is unusually severe, persists beyond six to nine months, or shows no signs of improvement, seeking professional guidance is recommended. This is important if shedding continues for an extended period, as it could indicate chronic telogen effluvium or an underlying genetic predisposition to hair loss.
A doctor can help rule out other potential causes of hair loss, such as thyroid dysfunction, nutritional deficiencies unrelated to COVID-19, or other dermatological conditions. They may perform a “pull test” to assess shedding or recommend blood tests to check for deficiencies. In some cases, if necessary, a healthcare provider might suggest specific treatments or offer further advice to support hair regrowth, ensuring the most appropriate course of action for your individual situation.