As we all know, the Covid pandemic was a hugely challenging time. Health concerns, lockdowns and financial stress all took their toll. As we've moved into the post-pandemic world, we’re still learning more about the virus. So much still remains to be discovered. People with Covid suffered from a huge variety of symptoms, some of which occurred after the initial infection subsided. Extreme fatigue, loss of smell, muscle aches and brain fog are just some of them. But one of the most common post-virus effects of Covid has been hair loss. And it’s incredibly common, with one recent study finding over 50% of people had experienced hair loss after Covid. Here’s the lowdown on Covid hair loss, and what you can do to fight back if you’re suffering with the condition.
Understanding the Causes of Hair Loss after Covid
We’re still waiting for research to provide the key to unlock the mystery of hair loss after Covid. But the evidence points to the virus triggering a condition known as telogen effluvium. TE is a type of hair loss that occurs when the body goes through a significant stressor, such as a high fever, major surgery, or childbirth.
Normally, hair growth goes through three phases: anagen (active growth), catagen (transitional), and telogen (resting). During the telogen phase, hair is in a resting state and is ready to fall out, making way for new hair growth. In TE, more hairs than usual enter the telogen phase at the same time. This leads to increased shedding and hair loss.
The exact mechanism behind how COVID-19 causes telogen effluvium is not fully understood. But it is believed that the stress and inflammation caused by the virus can trigger hair follicles to enter the telogen phase prematurely. This leads to a period of hair shedding which can be incredibly distressing.
How Long Does It Last?
The good news about post-virus telogen effluvium is usually temporary. The hair cycle eventually goes back into phase and hair growth should return to normal within six to twelve months. However, losing hair in this manner can be very unsettling. And sometimes, the body needs a helping hand to recover from Covid. It's the same with Covid and hair loss. So, it’s important to take action to support your hair health and encourage regrowth. Here’s what you can do to help.
Use Gentle Hair Products
While you're experiencing telogen effluvium, it's important to be gentle with your hair. Use mild, sulphate-free shampoos and conditioners, and don’t wash your hair too often. This can strip your locks of essential moisture and weaken it further. Turn the heat down when you shower, and then avoid heat styling tools, as tempting as they are! Allow your hair to air-dry wherever possible, and be gentle when you brush or comb your hair. Always avoid pulling or tugging on it. Consider using Hair Gain’s wide-toothed comb to effortlessly detangle and minimize damage.
Eating Sensibly to Fight Hair Loss After Covid
Maintaining a healthy, balanced diet is essential for healthy hair growth at all times. Make sure you are getting enough protein, iron, and other essential vitamins and minerals. Consider incorporating foods such as eggs, leafy greens, nuts, and seeds into your diet to ensure you are getting the necessary nutrients.
In addition to these nutrients, make sure you are getting enough key hair vitamins and minerals like vitamin B3, vitamin C, vitamin E, and biotin. These can all support hair growth. Great hair supplements are a must. You’ll find all these essentials in Hair Gain Capsules and Gummies, as well as the unique AnaGain™ ingredient, shown to contribute to a 78% increase in hair growth in just three months.
Manage Stress Levels
Stress can be a major contributor to telogen effluvium. So, it's important to manage your stress levels as much as possible. Make sure you are getting enough sleep and exercise regularly. Take time for self-care activities like reading, meditation, or spending time in nature. Yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises are all effective ways to reduce stress and promote relaxation. If you’re becoming overwhelmed with stress, then talk to your GP or a therapist to help you develop coping strategies.
Final Thoughts
It's important to remember that hair loss after COVID is often temporary and will likely improve over time. Be patient and take the above steps to support healthy hair. Don’t disappear down the rabbit-hole of stress as all that does is make everything ten times more difficult. By doing all the right things, your overall health will improve. Your body will fight back when experiencing hair falling out after COVID. You’ll be promoting healthy hair growth and reducing the risk of further hair fall.
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