Telogen Effluvium: Causes, Treatment, and Regrowth

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Telogen effluvium is a common type of hair loss that occurs when a large number of hair follicles on the scalp enter the resting phase (telogen phase) and eventually shed. This condition can be triggered by various factors such as stress, hormonal changes, medications, or a medical condition.

Regrowth: Hair regrowth following telogen effluvium can take several months to a year, and some people may not experience full regrowth. With proper treatment, the regrowth of hair should begin in a few months. However, it is essential to treat the underlying cause, and any nutritional deficiencies to promote hair growth.

What is Telogen Effluvium

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Telogen Effluvium is a type of hair loss characterized by excessive shedding or thinning of hair on the scalp. It occurs when a large number of hair follicles enter the resting phase of the hair growth cycle (telogen phase) at the same time, resulting in a sudden and noticeable loss of hair.

The condition is typically temporary and can occur in both men and women. Some common causes of Telogen Effluvium include significant stress, hormonal changes (such as after pregnancy or during menopause), rapid weight loss or malnutrition, certain medications, and underlying medical conditions such as thyroid disorders or autoimmune diseases.

Telogen Effluvium usually resolves on its own within a few months to a year. In some cases, treatment may be recommended to address the underlying cause of hair loss or to promote hair growth. A healthcare provider or a dermatologist can help diagnose and recommend appropriate treatment options for Telogen Effluvium.

Causes of Telogen Effluvium

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Telogen Effluvium is a type of hair loss that occurs due to a disruption in the normal hair growth cycle. The hair growth cycle involves three stages: anagen (active growth), catagen (transition phase), and telogen (resting phase).

Anagen (active growth)

Catagen (transition phase)

Telogen (resting phase).

This is your hair growth cycle's most active stage. Cells in the lower part of a hair follicle divide quickly. When new hair grows, it pushes the hair out of the follicle and lengthens the hair shafts. A hair follicle can grow hair for up to four years in the anagen stage. At any given time, 80% to 90% of your hair follicles are in the anagen stage.

This is a stage in the growth cycle of your hair. Your hair follicle's lower portion regresses and stops growing. At any given time, approximately 5% of all hairs are in the catagen stage.

This is the stage of your hair growth cycle when it is at rest. The hair follicle is dormant, and there is a white keratin bulb at the root (club hair). The keratin bulb keeps the hair in the follicle until it sheds, at which point the hair growth cycle begins again. At any given time, approximately 5% of all hairs are in the telogen stage.

 

Telogen Effluvium occurs when a large number of hair follicles suddenly shift from the anagen phase to the telogen phase, causing hair to shed prematurely. The most common causes of Telogen Effluvium include:

  1. Physical or emotional stress: Stressful events such as illness, surgery, childbirth, or the death of a loved one can trigger Telogen Effluvium.

  2. Hormonal changes: Changes in hormonal levels, such as those that occur during menopause or pregnancy, can also lead to Telogen Effluvium.

  3. Nutritional deficiencies: A lack of certain nutrients, such as iron or protein, can cause Telogen Effluvium.

  4. Medications: Some medications, such as blood thinners, beta-blockers, or chemotherapy drugs, can cause Telogen Effluvium.

  5. Thyroid problems: Thyroid imbalances, such as hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, can lead to Telogen Effluvium.

  6. Autoimmune diseases: Certain autoimmune diseases, such as lupus or alopecia areata, can cause Telogen Effluvium.

  7. Scalp infections: Scalp infections, such as ringworm or folliculitis, can cause Telogen Effluvium.

  8. Hairstyling practices: Certain hairstyling practices, such as tight braids or weaves, can cause Telogen Effluvium.

Symptoms of Telogen Effluvium

Telogen effluvium is a type of hair loss that occurs due to stress or shock to the body, such as childbirth, surgery, severe illness, or emotional stress. The main symptom of telogen effluvium is a significant increase in hair shedding or hair fall. Here are some common symptoms of telogen effluvium:

  • Increased hair shedding: More hair than usual falls out when brushing, washing or styling the hair.

  • Thinning hair: Hair may appear thinner, especially at the crown of the head.

  • Widening of the part line: The part line may appear wider due to hair loss.

  • Visible hair loss: Some hair loss may be visible on the scalp, especially when the hair is wet or pulled back.

  • Slower hair growth: Hair may grow more slowly than usual.

  • Changes in hair texture: Hair may become dry, brittle, or dull.

It is important to note that telogen effluvium is a temporary condition, and the hair usually grows back within six to twelve months after the trigger has been removed. However, in some cases, telogen effluvium can become chronic and may require medical treatment. If you are experiencing hair loss, it is recommended to consult a healthcare provider or dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Telogen effluvium vs Androgenetic alopecia

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Telogen effluvium is a type of hair loss that occurs when the normal hair growth cycle is disrupted. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including physical or emotional stress, hormonal changes, medications, or nutritional deficiencies. In telogen effluvium, the hair follicles prematurely enter the resting (telogen) phase of the growth cycle, causing hair to shed more than usual. Telogen effluvium typically causes diffuse hair loss, meaning hair falls out evenly from all over the scalp, and the hair loss is often temporary and reversible once the underlying cause is treated.

Androgenetic alopecia, also known as male or female pattern baldness, is a genetic condition that affects both men and women. In this condition, hair follicles gradually shrink and produce shorter, finer hairs, eventually leading to hair thinning and hair loss. Androgenetic alopecia typically causes hair loss in a pattern, with thinning occurring in specific areas of the scalp, such as the crown or hairline. In men, androgenetic alopecia typically results in a receding hairline and baldness at the crown, while in women, it often leads to diffuse thinning throughout the scalp. Androgenetic alopecia is generally a progressive condition, meaning it worsens over time and may be more difficult to reverse than telogen effluvium.

In summary, telogen effluvium is temporary hair loss caused by disruptions in the hair growth cycle, while androgenetic alopecia is a genetic condition that causes progressive hair thinning and baldness in specific patterns on the scalp.

Treatment for Telogen effluvium

Telogen effluvium is a temporary form of hair loss that occurs due to stress, hormonal changes, medication, illness, or nutritional deficiencies. In most cases, the hair grows back without treatment once the underlying cause is addressed. However, some treatments can help to speed up the recovery process and promote hair growth. These include:

  • Addressing the underlying cause: This may involve making changes to your diet, addressing any nutrient deficiencies, managing stress levels, or adjusting medications.

  • Minoxidil: This medication is applied topically to the scalp and can help to promote hair growth. It is available over-the-counter and in prescription strengths.

  • Hair supplements: Supplements containing biotin, zinc, iron, and other nutrients that support hair growth may be beneficial.

  • Low-level laser therapy: This treatment involves exposing the scalp to low-level laser light to stimulate hair growth.

  • Corticosteroids: In severe cases of telogen effluvium, corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and promote hair growth.

It's important to speak with a healthcare provider or a dermatologist to determine the best course of treatment for your specific case of telogen effluvium.

Telogen effluvium: Men

Telogen effluvium is a type of hair loss that occurs when a large number of hair follicles on the scalp enter the resting phase of the hair growth cycle (known as the telogen phase) and subsequently shed their hair. This type of hair loss is usually temporary and can be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, illness, hormonal changes, medications, and nutritional deficiencies.

In men, telogen effluvium can occur at any age, but it is most commonly seen in individuals between the ages of 20 and 50. Some common causes of telogen effluvium in men include:

  1. Physical or emotional stress: Stress can cause a hormonal imbalance in the body, which can disrupt the hair growth cycle and lead to telogen effluvium.

  2. Illness or surgery: Severe illness or surgery can cause the body to divert nutrients away from the hair follicles, leading to hair loss.

  3. Hormonal changes: Changes in hormone levels, such as those that occur during puberty or as a result of a thyroid disorder, can trigger telogen effluvium.

  4. Medications: Certain medications, such as those used to treat cancer or high blood pressure, can cause telogen effluvium as a side effect.

  5. Nutritional deficiencies: A lack of essential nutrients, such as iron or vitamin D, can lead to hair loss.

If you are experiencing hair loss, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan. In most cases, telogen effluvium will resolve on its own once the underlying cause is addressed.

Telogen effluvium: Women

Telogen effluvium is a form of hair loss that occurs when a large number of hair follicles enter the resting (telogen) phase of the hair growth cycle at the same time, leading to increased shedding of hair. Telogen effluvium can be caused by a variety of factors, including hormonal changes, stress, nutritional deficiencies, medications, and medical conditions.

Telogen effluvium can affect both men and women, but it is more common in women. Women may be more susceptible to telogen effluvium due to hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause. In addition, women may also experience telogen effluvium as a side effect of birth control pills or other hormonal treatments.

Symptoms of telogen effluvium in women may include increased hair shedding, thinning of the hair, and a reduction in hair volume. However, unlike other forms of hair loss such as androgenetic alopecia (female pattern hair loss), telogen effluvium does not usually cause bald patches or permanent hair loss.

Treatment for telogen effluvium typically involves identifying and addressing the underlying cause of hair loss. For example, if telogen effluvium is caused by a nutritional deficiency, supplementation with vitamins and minerals may be recommended. If stress is the trigger, stress reduction techniques may be helpful. In some cases, medication or topical treatments may be recommended to help promote hair growth.

Home remedies for Telogen effluvium

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Telogen effluvium is a common condition in which there is temporary hair loss due to stress, hormonal changes, certain medications, or other factors. While there is no specific cure for telogen effluvium, there are some home remedies that may help manage the condition:

  • Reduce stress: Stress is a major factor that can trigger telogen effluvium. So, it's important to manage your stress levels by practicing relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga.

  • Maintain a healthy diet: Eating a well-balanced diet rich in protein, iron, and vitamins can help promote hair growth and prevent hair loss.

  • Massage your scalp: Gently massaging your scalp with essential oils such as lavender, rosemary, or peppermint oil can help improve blood circulation to the hair follicles and promote hair growth.

  • Avoid harsh hair treatments: Avoid using harsh hair treatments such as chemical relaxers, hot oil treatments, or hair dyes, as they can damage your hair and exacerbate hair loss.

  • Use mild shampoos and conditioners: Use gentle shampoos and conditioners that do not contain harsh chemicals or sulfates, as they can irritate your scalp and cause further hair loss.

  • Practice good hair hygiene: Wash your hair regularly with lukewarm water and avoid using hot water, as it can damage your hair and scalp.

  • Get enough sleep: Getting enough sleep is essential for your overall health and well-being, and it can also help reduce stress and promote hair growth.

If your telogen effluvium is severe or persists for a long time, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

Takeaway: Prevent hair loss by Telogen effluvium and promote hair regrowth!

promote hair growth

Telogen effluvium is a type of hair loss that occurs when more hairs than usual enter the resting (telogen) phase of the hair growth cycle, leading to excessive shedding. While this type of hair loss is often temporary and resolves on its own, there are steps you can take to promote hair regrowth and prevent future hair loss.

  1. Identify and address the underlying cause: Telogen effluvium can be triggered by a variety of factors, including stress, hormonal changes, nutritional deficiencies, and medication side effects. Identifying and addressing the underlying cause of your hair loss is the first step in preventing further shedding and promoting regrowth.

  2. Maintain a healthy diet: Eating a well-balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can help support healthy hair growth. Focus on consuming foods high in protein, iron, zinc, and vitamin D.

  3. Reduce stress: Stress can be a major trigger for telogen effluvium. Implementing stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can help promote healthy hair growth.

  4. Use gentle hair care products: Harsh chemicals and heat styling tools can damage the hair and contribute to hair loss. Opt for gentle hair care products and avoid excessive heat styling.

  5. Consider hair growth supplements: Certain supplements such as biotin, collagen, and omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to support healthy hair growth. However, it's important to speak with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplements.

  6. Seek professional treatment: If your hair loss persists or is severe, consider seeking professional treatment from a dermatologist or hair loss specialist. They may recommend topical medications or other treatments to promote hair regrowth.

By following these steps, you can help prevent telogen effluvium-related hair loss and promote healthy hair regrowth.


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