Telogen Effluvium: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Telogen effluvium, often referred to as diffuse alopecia, is a common form of hair loss characterized by widespread hair shedding. It can affect men, women, and even children. There are two main types: chronic telogen effluvium, which may last for months or years, and acute telogen effluvium, which appears suddenly.

To understand this condition, it helps to know how the hair growth cycle works. Hair follicles go through three phases: anagen (growth), catagen (transition), and telogen (resting/shedding). In telogen effluvium, a large number of hair follicles prematurely enter the telogen phase, resulting in excessive hair fall.

Typically, shedding fewer than 80 hairs per day is considered normal. With telogen effluvium, daily loss can range from 100 to over 300 hairs.

Key Signs of Telogen Effluvium

• Sudden and significant hair shedding across the scalp
• Visible scalp due to hair thinning, especially around the temples
• Decreased hair density, making the hair appear less voluminous
• Changes in hair texture, where strands become more brittle and prone to breakage

Common Causes of Telogen Effluvium: Stress, Hormones, Illness, and More

Several factors can trigger telogen effluvium. Often, the shedding begins two to three months after a triggering event, making the cause harder to identify.

Leading Triggers Include:

• Stress: Emotional trauma, intense anxiety, or physical stress can interrupt the hair growth cycle.
• Nutritional deficiencies: Lack of iron, vitamin D, zinc, or other essential nutrients often contributes to hair thinning.
• Medical conditions: Thyroid disorders, diabetes, and infections like COVID-19 can trigger this condition.
• Medications: Some drugs, such as antidepressants, anticoagulants, beta-blockers, and chemotherapy agents, are linked to hair loss.
• Hormonal shifts: Postpartum women or those recovering from a miscarriage often experience post-pregnancy hair loss.
• Seasonal changes: Telogen effluvium linked to seasonal shifts may result from underlying metabolic or hormonal fluctuations.

To determine the root cause, it is essential to perform a comprehensive hormonal and nutritional assessment. It’s also crucial to differentiate telogen effluvium from androgenetic alopecia, which may occur simultaneously.

How to Treat and Reverse Telogen Effluvium

The treatment for telogen effluvium depends largely on its cause. In most cases, addressing the underlying issue allows hair to regrow naturally over time.

Steps to Manage and Reduce Hair Shedding:

• Eliminate the trigger: Reducing stress levels or discontinuing a medication (under medical supervision) can halt further hair loss.
• Correct nutritional imbalances: Supplementing with iron, zinc, or vitamin D when deficient can promote hair regrowth.
• Use anti-shedding treatments: Special topical lotions and shampoos may help strengthen existing hair and reduce shedding.

When hair loss persists, or regrowth is slow, several medical-aesthetic procedures can support follicle health.

Advanced Treatments for Chronic Cases:

• Vitamin and vasodilator injections: Delivered into the scalp to stimulate blood flow and improve follicle function.
• Microneedling therapy: A minimally invasive technique that promotes collagen production and enhances topical treatment absorption.
• Scalp regeneration therapies: Including PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) injections and tissue regeneration options.
• Psychological support: For stress-induced telogen effluvium, therapy or counseling can be crucial to long-term recovery.

It’s always best to consult a hair loss specialist or dermatologist who can tailor a treatment plan based on your individual needs and diagnostic results.

Final Thoughts: Telogen Effluvium Is Treatable With the Right Approach

Though alarming, telogen effluvium is generally a reversible form of alopecia. Identifying and removing the cause, correcting nutritional issues, and supporting the scalp with medical treatments can all contribute to a full recovery.

With the help of experienced hair professionals, most patients regain normal hair density within several months. However, ongoing shedding should always be evaluated to rule out other forms of alopecia.