Hair loss might not be a life-threatening COVID effect, but it influences self-perception. It causes psychological stress and changes an individual’s physical appearance.
As an after-effect and an unexpected COVID phenomenon, it can be hard to prevent it from occurring. Yet, understanding the best hair loss treatments can relieve stress. The understanding can also end toiling for solutions when experiencing COVID-19 hair loss.
Dive in and gain details about COVID hair loss treatment. Understand the science behind this unexpected COVID-19 outcome.
Introduction to COVID-Related Hair Loss
Some of the COVID-related symptoms include fever, sore throat, and chills. People also experience a loss of sense of taste and smell. Some also have muscle aches, fatigue, and breathing difficulties, among many others. The symptoms occur depending on the individual.
Hair loss is among the after-effects of having COVID. Some individuals experience hair loss two to four months after COVID. Need to to understand that hair loss as an after-effect of COVID is temporary. The hair follicles can rejuvenate after the stressor.
Causes And Science Behind COVID Hair Loss
COVID-related stress and trauma or any other life event can cause hair loss. The release of stress hormones like cortisol impacts hair follicles, causing hair loss. COVID symptoms such as fever can cause a rise in stress, leading to hair loss.
Telogen effluvium is the scientific term behind COVID hair loss. It refers to the stress-related hair loss resulting from an illness. Telogen effluvium disrupts the hair growth cycle when the body experiences significant stress.
During a COVID-19 infection, the body goes through stress. Hence, hair follicles go to the resting cycle of hair growth. The prolonged stay in the resting cycle leads to shedding a few months after infection.
Effective Treatment Options For COVID Hair Loss
Are you experiencing hair loss as an after-effect of COVID and do not wish to wait it out? Below are a few options for COVID hair loss treatment:
Over-the-counter Treatments and Shampoos
Rogaine is an over-the-counter treatment option for COVID hair loss. It is available and FDA-approved for use. The treatment can treat partial baldness, making it practical for COVID hair loss.
There are shampoo options that help with COVID hair loss and other types of hair loss. Look out for keratin, biotin, caffeine, and vegetable protein shampoos. The ingredients stimulate hair growth. Shampoos with the ingredients above also promote healthy hair.
Prescription Medications
Your dermatologist prescribes the COVID hair loss treatment. Some medications are Propecia, prescribed for men, spironolactone, and corticosteroids. Corticosteroids are usually prescribed for severe hair loss.
Natural Remedies and Lifestyle Changes
The natural remedies for COVID hair loss include vitamin D or Zinc supplements. A consistent, well-balanced diet with minerals, vitamins, and proteins can restore hair. Also, stress management techniques like meditation and journaling are COVID hair loss treatments.
When To Consult a Dermatologist
If your hair loss worsens with time, consult a dermatologist. The dermatologist can check the cause of the hair loss. The expert provides personalized treatment to get your hair back.
Comparative Analysis: Efficacy Of Different Treatments
Some recommended COVID hair loss treatments are supplements and minoxidil. Minimal invasive scalp injections, stress management strategies, and nutritional intervention also work.
Real Stories: Experiences From COVID Patients
Meghan, a 28-year-old software developer, experienced hair loss after battling COVID. After consulting with a specialist, Meghan took Zinc supplements and practiced stress management. The strategy improved her hair and worked within a few months.
Jennifer, a 41-year-old nurse, had COVID hair loss. After consulting a dermatologist, she settled on taking minoxidil solution daily. Jeniffer also added a rich nutrient diet as a treatment. Jennifer noticed a thick hair growth within four months of treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is COVID Hair Loss Permanent Or Temporary?
Yes. COVID hair loss is temporary. Hair follicles rejuvenate after a few months, restoring the normal hair volume.
How Soon After Contracting COVID-19 Can Hair Loss Start?
COVID hair loss begins two months after contracting the infection. The onset depends on the individual’s hair follicles’ entrance into the resting cycle.
Are There Preventive Measures One Can Take?
Yes. You can stay hydrated, manage stress, and eat a balanced diet to prevent COVID-19 hair loss.
What Other Illnesses Can Lead To Similar Hair Loss Patterns?
Illnesses that can lead to hair loss are thyroid disease and nutritional deficiency. Hormonal imbalance and syphilis can also lead to hair loss.