How Long Does Telogen Effluvium Hair Loss Last?
Complete Symptoms & Treatment Guide

The Importance of the Telogen Phase in the Hair Growth Cycle

Healthy hair goes through four main stages: the anagen phase (growth), the catagen phase (transition), the telogen phase (rest), and the exogen phase (shedding).

The purpose of the telogen phase is to hold the hair within the follicle, allowing it to rest and recover before the anagen phase resumes. Additionally, it helps to retain mature hairs and shed damaged ones. Essentially, the telogen phase provides a stable base for new hair growth.

Ultimately, a disturbance in the telogen phase of the hair growth cycle is what causes telogen effluvium.

What are the Causes of Telogen Effluvium?

While primarily triggered by physical and psychological stress, telogen effluvium hair loss can also be caused by several other factors, including:

• Major surgical procedures
• Extreme weight loss
• Hormonal imbalances (thyroid disorders)
• Nutritional deficiencies (especially iron deficiency)
• Chronic stress due to psychological conditions (depression, anxiety, etc.)
• Childbirth

Are There Different Causes for Men and Women?

Anyone, regardless of gender or age, can experience this type of hair shedding. However, it’s important to note that women are more frequently affected, as rapid hormonal changes can often lead to telogen effluvium. It can also develop during pregnancy.

Can Medications Cause Telogen Effluvium?

While medications are not the sole cause of telogen effluvium, several drugs can contribute to hair loss, especially when combined with other predisposing factors:

• Blood thinners
• Beta-blockers
• Antidepressants
• Anticonvulsants
• Hormonal medications (contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy, etc.)
• Retinoids
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Can Weight Loss Cause Telogen Effluvium?

Yes, telogen effluvium can occur due to sudden or extreme weight loss. Losing weight too quickly can lead to various complications, such as nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, and physiological stress, all of which are recognized triggers for telogen effluvium hair loss.

Can Nutritional Deficiencies Cause Telogen Effluvium?

Yes, nutritional deficiencies, particularly iron deficiency, can significantly trigger telogen effluvium. According to research, another deficiency commonly linked to telogen effluvium in women is vitamin D deficiency. Researchers have also suggested that low levels of vitamin D3 may be associated with this condition.

What are the Symptoms of Telogen Effluvium?

Common telogen effluvium symptoms include:

• Hair thinning
• Unusual hair shedding
• Itching
• Burning sensation
• Tightness
• Tingling
• Pain

While most individuals do not experience skin-related issues, some may notice scalp pain associated with telogen effluvium.

Which Areas are Affected by Telogen Effluvium?

Telogen effluvium can affect the entire scalp, and specifically:

• The nape of the neck
• The temples
• The crown
• Eyelashes
• Body hair

However, the top of the scalp is the most commonly affected area, while the loss of body hair and eyebrows is observed in more severe cases. It’s important to note that hair loss may not exclusively affect the eyebrows or body hair.

Is Telogen Effluvium Chronic?

Telogen effluvium is not inherently chronic, but it can become so in certain situations. Typically, telogen effluvium is a temporary hair loss condition. However, a form called chronic telogen effluvium occurs when the shedding persists for longer than 6 months.

This can happen if the underlying stressor or trigger is not resolved (for example, a chronic illness, persistent hormonal imbalance, or inadequate diet). It is more common in women and can last for years if not properly addressed.

Is Telogen Effluvium Permanent or Reversible?

Is Telogen Effluvium Permanent?

No, telogen effluvium is temporary, and after addressing the underlying cause of this type of hair loss, hair regrowth typically takes 3 to 6 months.

In most cases, hair will grow back. However, remember that in more severe situations, the condition can become chronic.

Is Telogen Effluvium Reversible?

Since this is a temporary scalp condition, the effects are reversible. Therefore, the most important step is to consult a healthcare professional to identify any underlying causes contributing to the development of the condition.

As telogen effluvium is often linked to excessive stress, hormonal imbalances, and nutritional issues, addressing these underlying problems is crucial for reversing the situation.

How Long Does Telogen Effluvium Last?

Telogen effluvium typically lasts for 3 to 6 months, until the hair follicles return to the anagen (growth) phase and new hair begins to grow. However, this applies to acute telogen effluvium, not the chronic form, also known as diffuse hair loss.

🖋️Some studies indicate that chronic shedding primarily affects middle-aged women.

Other Characteristics of Telogen Effluvium

Is Telogen Effluvium an Autoimmune Disorder?

Recent studies suggest that telogen effluvium cannot be definitively classified as an autoimmune disease, as there is currently insufficient evidence.

The condition is primarily associated with significant stress and trauma. However, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an autoimmune condition, might be correlated with telogen effluvium.

Is Telogen Effluvium Contagious?

No, telogen effluvium is not contagious. Furthermore, it is not a hereditary condition. Therefore, there is no way to transmit it. It is your body’s response to significant stress.

Does Telogen Effluvium Cause Hair Miniaturization?

Telogen effluvium hair loss does not cause hair miniaturization, which is the condition where hair follicles shrink and lead to gradual thinning.

It’s understandable to have this concern, as telogen effluvium can also result in thinning due to the shedding of a significant amount of hair.

Diagnosing Telogen Effluvium

You can attempt a self-diagnosis or consult a dermatologist for a professional diagnosis of telogen effluvium.

While it can be relatively straightforward to identify, without a proper diagnosis, it can be challenging to determine the underlying cause of hair shedding related to telogen effluvium. It can be mistaken for other types of hair loss, such as androgenetic alopecia, alopecia areata, etc.

Therefore, if you notice that the amount of hair you are losing is not normal, consult a dermatologist to determine the root cause of the problem.

1. Self-Diagnosis

Before consulting a doctor, you can perform a self-assessment for telogen effluvium by conducting a hair pull test.

Start by gently grasping about 60 strands of hair between your fingers and pulling lightly. If you notice more than 6 strands falling out together with the bulbs, it is likely that you are experiencing telogen effluvium.

2. Dermatologist – Professional Diagnosis

After conducting a physical examination, including hair pull tests, and gathering information about your medical history, any recent triggers, and diet, a dermatologist can often diagnose telogen effluvium without the need for further medical tests.

However, some tests may be performed for a completely accurate diagnosis:

• Blood tests
• Scalp biopsy
• Trichogram
• Phototrichogram

The Treatment of Telogen Effluvium

There are several potential telogen effluvium treatments, including:

• Topical/systemic corticosteroids
• Minoxidil
• Finasteride
• CNPDA therapy
• Appropriate vitamin/iron/folic acid supplements

To effectively treat telogen effluvium, the first step is to identify and address the underlying cause. Additionally, it is advisable to avoid medications known to induce the catagen phase and potentially worsen hair shedding.

Once the cause has been identified, it is essential to follow your doctor’s recommendations for appropriate treatment.

Is Treatment Necessary for Telogen Effluvium?

In most cases, treatment is not necessary for telogen effluvium, as the condition typically resolves once the underlying causes are addressed. It may seem like the telogen effluvium is ongoing, as hair can take time to regrow, but there is usually no cause for concern.

If the underlying cause has been addressed, hair regrowth should occur within 6-8 months.

How to Prevent Telogen Effluvium

There are several ways to help prevent telogen effluvium. In particular, to prevent hair loss due to telogen effluvium, it is essential to take care of your overall health.

Remember that there is still a possibility of developing this condition, regardless of the care you take. However, you can take the following precautions:

• Avoid stressful situations
• Maintain a balanced diet
• Get sufficient sleep
• Avoid crash diets
• Exercise regularly
• Ensure proper postpartum care
• Take vitamin supplements as needed
• Avoid excessive hair styling
• Refrain from using harsh chemicals on your hair

How to Care for Your Hair if You Have Telogen Effluvium

If you have been diagnosed with telogen effluvium, you will need to take extra care of your hair to maintain its health.

Styling techniques and hair products used should be chosen carefully. Let’s look at some aspects to pay attention to.

Can I Dye My Hair if I Have Telogen Effluvium?

Dyeing your hair does not directly negatively impact telogen effluvium. However, since thinning is due to hair shedding associated with telogen effluvium, bleaching or dyeing can cause breakage and split ends, as they can excessively damage the hair shaft.

What Hairstyles Can I Use if I Have Telogen Effluvium?

Hairstyles that allow your hair to hang loosely are the most suitable to avoid causing further shedding. Therefore, hairstyles you can consider with telogen effluvium include wearing your hair down or securing it loosely with hair clips.

Hairstyles that can pull on the hair should be avoided. Additionally, you might consider using volumizing hair products to create a fuller appearance.

Should I Cut My Hair if I Have Telogen Effluvium?

Some individuals may believe that cutting their hair will improve their condition; however, this is a myth. So, if you have telogen effluvium and are wondering whether or not to cut your hair, the answer is no specific recommendation.

Ultimately, the decision is yours.

Conclusion

Telogen effluvium is a temporary and manageable condition:

• Increased hair shedding occurs, but regrowth typically happens within 3-6 months.
• It is not contagious and can affect body and eyebrow hair.
• The solution often involves addressing underlying stress or deficiencies.

Experts like Dr. Serkan Aygin, a renowned Turkish trichologist, offer professional approaches for persistent cases. Acting early is key!