Are you experiencing hair shedding or hair loss during a weight loss journey?
Some users of weight loss medication or weight loss programs have reported various side effects including hair thinning or hair loss.
Our hair often changes during periods of weight loss, trauma, stress, medication, changes to hormones or illness in our bodies among other reasons.
The medical name for the common type of shedding is telogen effluvium. Telogen effluvium is where more hair is shed more than normal leaving a thinning in the mid lengths and ends of hair and short hairs around the top of the head.
What can cause thinning or hair loss during weight loss
- Rapid weight loss is a major stress on the body which can trigger telogen effluvium.
- Weight loss injections help reduce appetite and supress cravings which may mean you miss out on key nutrients or have less variety in your diet.
- Not having the right nutrients in our body such as iron, zinc or protein are a common contributor for hair loss or shedding.
- Hormonal and metabolic changes caused by medication or weight loss can also be a contributing factor.
What can you do to care for your hair and scalp during hair loss or hair shedding
The scalp is the foundation for healthy hair so looking after this is important. Seek advice from your stylist regarding professional products specific to the hair and scalp.
Focus on gentle hair products with natural ingredients that are kind to your scalp. Scalp treatments to calm, clear and balance the scalp are beneficial with a conditioning treatment applied at the same time to support hair growth and hair health.
If possible, avoid tight hairstyles that pull on the hair and excessive heat styling.
How can Supercuts support if you are concerned about your scalp, hair shedding or hair loss
Speak to a Supercuts stylist about your concerns and they will be able to analyse your scalp and hair type to recommend the best products or treatments.
If your stylist feels that you need additional support, they may advise you to seek advice from your GP or a trichologist.
Always consult a medical professional if you are experiencing more hair loss than normal or don’t see improvement after a few months.
Treat your hair and scalp well.