Telogen Effluvium (Stress Hair Loss)

Review what happened 2-3 months before the shedding started. Common triggers include major stress, illness, surgery, crash dieting, medication changes, or hormonal shifts. Once identified, work to resolve or manage that trigger directly.

Ask your doctor to test ferritin (stored iron), TSH (thyroid function), vitamin D, and a complete blood count. These are the most common lab values associated with diffuse hair shedding. Bring results to a dermatologist if abnormalities are found.

Ensure your diet includes adequate protein (at least 50g daily), iron-rich foods (red meat, spinach, lentils), zinc (oysters, pumpkin seeds), and omega-3 fatty acids (salmon, walnuts). Avoid crash diets or extreme caloric restriction.

If significant shedding continues beyond 6 months despite addressing triggers and nutrition, schedule an appointment with a dermatologist who specializes in hair loss. They may perform a scalp biopsy, pull test, or trichoscopy to rule out other conditions.

Incorporate daily stress-reduction practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, regular physical exercise, or journaling. Even 15-20 minutes daily can make a meaningful difference.

Switch to a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo and avoid aggressive scrubbing. Wash hair 2-3 times per week rather than daily. Handle wet hair carefully — pat dry with a microfiber towel instead of rubbing.

Take a hair-specific supplement like Nutrafol or Viviscal daily as directed. These contain a blend of biotin, marine proteins, zinc, iron, and botanical extracts formulated to support the hair growth cycle.

Mix 5-10 drops of rosemary essential oil with 1 tablespoon of carrier oil. Massage into the scalp for 2-3 minutes, leave on for 30 minutes or overnight, then wash out. Apply 2-3 times per week.

Using your fingertips (not nails), massage the entire scalp in small circular motions for 4-5 minutes daily. Apply gentle but firm pressure. Do this on dry hair or during shampooing.

Take 2500-5000mcg of biotin daily with food. Available over the counter at any pharmacy or health food store.