Hair loss can be a concerning experience, and for many, it has become an unexpected aftermath of a COVID-19 infection. Individuals recovering from the virus have reported increased hair shedding. This phenomenon is a recognized post-viral symptom, and understanding its nature can help manage expectations and promote hair health. This article will explore the reasons behind this hair loss and what to anticipate during recovery.
Understanding Post-COVID Hair Loss
The hair loss observed after a COVID-19 infection is primarily a condition known as telogen effluvium. This type of hair shedding occurs when a significant physical or emotional stressor prematurely pushes many hair follicles from their active growth phase into a resting phase. Hair growth cycles through distinct stages: the anagen (growing) phase, the catagen (transition) phase, and the telogen (resting) phase. During the anagen phase, hair actively grows for several years, while the telogen phase is when hair rests before shedding, usually lasting a few months.
Severe physiological stress, such as a viral infection, high fever, or inflammation, can disrupt this normal cycle. The body’s response to the COVID-19 virus, including systemic inflammation and stress, can prematurely shift up to 50% of hair follicles into the telogen phase, compared to the usual 10-15%. This accelerated shift leads to noticeable shedding several weeks or months later.
Typical Duration of Hair Shedding
For individuals experiencing hair loss after COVID-19, shedding typically begins two to three months after the initial infection or acute illness. This delay occurs because hairs pushed into the resting phase take time to be shed from the scalp. The active shedding phase usually lasts three to six months. While the amount of hair lost can be significant, often exceeding the normal daily shedding, this condition is generally temporary.
Hair regrowth commonly begins within this shedding period as hair follicles recover and re-enter the active growth phase. While the shedding itself usually resolves within six months, achieving full hair density can take longer. New hair grows slowly, approximately one centimeter per month, so it can take six to twelve months or more for hair to return to its previous thickness and length. Some individuals might experience a second wave of shedding, which is often part of the staggered hair cycle resetting.
Managing Hair Health Post-COVID
Supporting hair health during and after increased shedding involves gentle care practices and focusing on overall well-being. Treat hair gently to minimize further damage to fragile strands. This includes avoiding harsh brushing, tight hairstyles that pull on the scalp, and excessive heat styling. When washing, use a gentle shampoo and a moisturizing conditioner to reduce breakage.
A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients promotes healthy hair growth. Hair follicles require adequate vitamins and minerals to function optimally, including B vitamins (especially biotin), vitamins D, C, and E, and minerals like iron and zinc. Consuming lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds provides these necessary building blocks.
Managing stress through relaxation techniques or other healthy outlets can also be helpful, as stress can sometimes exacerbate hair loss.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
While post-COVID hair shedding is usually a temporary condition, seeking medical advice is appropriate in some instances. Consult a healthcare professional if shedding is excessive or continues beyond the typical six-month timeframe. Persistent or unusually severe hair loss might indicate other underlying issues.
Medical attention is also warranted if hair loss is patchy, uneven, or accompanied by other scalp symptoms like itching, pain, or redness. These symptoms could suggest a different type of hair loss or an underlying scalp condition. A doctor can rule out other potential causes, such as nutritional deficiencies, and provide guidance or treatment.