Is Hair Loss The New Side Effect Of COVID-19

Despite many people believing COVID-19 is slowly a thing of the past. Many people suffer dramatic side effects from the deadly virus months after contracting it. In addition to respiratory issues, rashes, or stomach problems, studies show that hair loss is a new symptom some people are experiencing after their battle with COVID-19. 

Hair loss, also known as Telogen Effluvium, is connected to high stress and is an inflammatory process. The inflammatory process prevents the hair from growing from one stage to another. So, instead of hair progressing to its last phase before the shedding process, new hair does not grow. 

Although it seems like a random side effect, it makes sense. Considering COVID-19 has been the most stressful experience since Obama left the White House. 

On average, humans have about 100,000 hair follicles, and each day we shed about 100 hair follicles. Just imagine losing 100 marbles out of a bag of 100,000. Now imagine losing 300, then 500, then 1000. Eventually, that’s going to be noticeable. In my experience, I have noticed a considerable amount of shedding on clients who have dealt with COVID-19. After witnessing a client (not mine) who had much more hair loss than average, it led me to do more research. I discovered that COVID-19 hair is very common in men and women ranging in age. It typically starts 2 to 3 months after recovering from the virus and can become a condition people deal with for months. 

So how do you prevent it?

Unfortunately, there is no way to prevent COVID-19 hair at the moment. Researchers are working day and night to figure out proper treatment to manage unexpected hair loss. In the meantime, the best way to get a handle on your COVID-19 hair is not to stress.  The hair does grow back when dealing with Telogen Effluvium. However, you must be patient and gentle with yourself. If you are experiencing more hair loss than hair growth, talk to your professional stylist and seek a dermatologist to diagnose your symptoms medically.

Think you may be experiencing COVID hair? Then, schedule a consultation with me today to discuss your hair concerns and discover the best treatment.