Telogen effluvium (TE) is a common form of hair loss that can be distressing and confusing. If you're experiencing sudden, rapidly progressing hair loss and aren't sure what's causing it, you're not alone. In this post, we'll explore TE's symptoms, causes, and treatment options and offer tips for managing and coping with hair loss.
What is telogen effluvium?
Telogen effluvium is a type of hair loss that involves rapid hair shedding over a short period. It typically happens a few months after your body goes through something physically or emotionally stressful. It can also result from sudden hormonal changes. Hair loss due to telogen effluvium is usually temporary, and your hair often grows back without treatment once you no longer have that stress.
Telogen effluvium occurs when there is a change in the number of hair follicles actively growing. It is expected to shed 80-100 hairs per day. When many hair follicles switch from their growth to the resting phase, it can result in massive hair shedding of 150 or even 200 hairs daily. TE is the second most common form of hair loss diagnosed by dermatologists.
What are the symptoms of telogen effluvium?
Telogen effluvium usually appears as a thinning of hair on the scalp. This thinning may be limited to one area or appear all over, typically affecting the scalp's top. Rarely will TE cause your hairline to recede or result in complete hair loss. However, in some severe cases, TE can cause hair in other areas to fall out, such as the eyebrows and pubic region.
Symptoms of telogen effluvium include:
- Increased hair loss, which you may notice in your hairbrush, in your shower drain, or on your pillow
- Thinning hair on your scalp
- Dry hairs fall out easily
What are the most common causes of telogen effluvium (TE)?
A variety of factors can trigger telogen effluvium. Environmental changes, such as exposure to toxins or physical trauma, like a car crash or surgery, can cause a shock to the system and put the hair follicles resting. Similarly, changes in hormone levels, such as during pregnancy, can also trigger TE. Certain medications, such as antidepressants and oral contraceptives, may also cause hair loss as a side effect. While a healthy diet is essential for overall health and hair growth, crash dieting or deficiencies in specific vitamins and nutrients, like iron, zinc, and vitamins B-6 and B-12, may also contribute to TE.
Causes of telogen effluvium:
- High fever and severe infections
- Childbirth
- Psychological stress
- Major surgery
- Hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid gland)
- Hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid gland)
- Discontinuing birth control pills
- Crash diets that do not provide enough protein
- Certain medications, such as oral retinoids (such as Accutane), beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, depression medications, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
What is the best treatment for telogen effluvium?
First and foremost, it's essential to identify the underlying cause. For example, if your hair loss results from a medication you're taking, you may need to switch to a different medication with fewer side effects. If you're experiencing a hormone imbalance, your healthcare provider may recommend hormone therapy to help restore balance. If your hair loss is related to diet or nutrition, it may be helpful to work with a dietician to develop a healthy eating plan that includes all the essential vitamins and nutrients your body needs.
What are the best supplements for people with telogen effluvium?
The best supplements for people with telogen effluvium provide essential nutrients for hair regrowth and overall health. One such supplement is MDhair Restore Supplements, specifically formulated to replenish the nutrients needed to ensure optimal hair growth. These supplements contain essential vitamins and minerals, such as Biotin, Vitamin C, E, B6, B12, B5, iron, iodine, magnesium, zinc, selenium, and chromium. By promoting thicker, stronger, and healthier hair, MDhair Restore Supplements can help individuals with telogen effluvium manage their hair loss more effectively. Moreover, these supplements are vegan, sugar-free, sulfate-free, and non-GMO, ensuring they are safe and suitable for many users. Dermatologist-formulated, tested, and approved MDhair Restore Supplements are reliable for those looking to support hair regrowth during telogen effluvium.
Key ingredients of MDhair restore supplements:
- Biotin: Believed to strengthen hair follicles, improve scalp circulation, and increase hair density.
- Vitamins C, D, and E: Essential for a healthy scalp and regrowth of healthier, thicker hair.
- Vitamin B12 and Folic Acid Help hair follicles regenerate and heal faster, producing new, healthier hair.
- Iodine, Magnesium, Zinc, Selenium, Manganese, and Chromium: Necessary for a healthy scalp and regrowth of healthier, thicker hair.
- Calcium: An essential mineral that reduces hair breakage, dry scalp, and brittle nails.
- Vitamin K2: Stimulates blood flow to the scalp, enhancing healthy hair regrowth.
Collagen peptides for people with telogen effluvium
Marine collagen offers many benefits for individuals suffering from telogen effluvium, which results in excessive hair shedding. MDhair Marine Collagen is specifically formulated to support the production of healthy hair, skin, nails, and joints, making it an ideal choice for those experiencing hair loss due to telogen effluvium. The hydrolyzed marine collagen in the formula provides collagen types I and III, which serve as the most effective building blocks for collagen production in hair, skin, and nails. Additionally, the pescatarian-friendly formula is easily dissolvable in hot and cold liquids, making it a convenient addition to one's daily routine.
MDhair's Marine Collagen also contains vital ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and vitamin C, which further benefit individuals with telogen effluvium. Hyaluronic acid is a building block for the intercellular space and helps maintain well-hydrated, elastic, and strong hair, skin, nails, and joints. Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant, is essential for producing new collagen and contributes to the proper function of joints, gums, skin, and teeth.
How long does telogen effluvium last?
In most people, telogen effluvium usually resolves in 3 to 9 months. In some cases, there is residual hair thinning, aka chronic telogen effluvium.
Will my hair grow back after telogen effluvium?
Yes, your hair will grow back after telogen effluvium. After the 3 to 9-month shedding period, you'll notice new hair growth in your affected areas.
Managing and Coping with Hair Loss
Hair loss can be a sensitive and emotional topic, and it's essential to take time to process and cope with it. It can be helpful to surround yourself with supportive friends and family and seek resources and support from a therapist or counselor. Remember, you are not alone; many resources are available to help you manage hair loss and improve the appearance of thinning hair.
More info:
- Best supplements for people with Telogen Effluvium
- Best collagen peptide supplements for people with hair loss
- Best treatments for stress-induced hair loss according to dermatologists
- Causes and treatments for postpartum hair loss
- Best and worst foods for women with hair loss
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