Everything You Need To Know About Covid Hair Loss

Have you been noticing fuzzy balls of hair stuck on your comb or scrunchies a lot lately? Worry not, because we’ve just found out who the hair fall culprit is. If you’ve recently recovered from COVID 19, then yes that’s the root cause of all the clumps of hair in your hands, bedroom floor or shower. COVID hair loss is real.

Hair loss can be scary but you are not alone so don’t freak out. There are a whole bunch of people out there who are dealing with COVID and hair loss while shedding 100s of strands every day. According to a survey conducted by Dr Natalie Lambert from Indiana University School of Medicine, it was found that hair loss was one of the top 25 symptoms experienced by those diagnosed with Coronavirus.

But you’re wondering, does COVID cause hair loss? What does COVID-19 really have to do with it? Let us tell you. After tons of research it was finally revealed to us that Coronavirus’ biggest partner in crime- STRESS, was to blame. Doctors across the globe believe that the physical and emotional stress that accompanies the virus can lead to the reversible hair loss condition called Telogen Effluvium- the medical term for superabundant shedding of hair.  

What does Telogen Effluvium do to cause such a horrendous thing?

This particularly happens when one’s body is put under sudden distress and anxiety - exactly what Coronavirus does. It is commonly seen in people who have had viral infections, gone through surgeries or those who suffer from acute stress. 

There are three phases in the cycle of our hair- Growing, Resting and Shedding. Most of the hair follicles are in the growing phase, about 5% are in the resting phase and around 10% are in the shedding phase. However, when there’s a sudden shock, like emotional distress or an infection that our system has to fight, it literally goes into flight mode. What we mean is that the body only focuses on the necessary functions like fighting the infection or coping with stress. Hair growth at this point becomes unimportant and hence a majority of the hair follicles go into the telogen or resting phase, which leads to shedding. Hence the spike in hair loss from COVID.

Another reason that puts hair in the telogen stage in men is the high inflammatory response to COVID-19. It causes an increase in the cortisol level which indirectly increases the dihydrotestosterone levels. 

Phewww! Sounds mind-boggling! But the good news is that Telogen Effluvium is temporary, and your gorgeous tresses will grow back in due course. Remember, hair grows slowly and in the case of COVID hair loss, it should take about 4 to 6 months. So do not stress about the strands on your pillow or how long this is going to go on. More stress is absolutely not needed. Just give it time and all will be just fine. 

Aaaannd in the meantime here are some things you could do or products you can use to show the tresses on your head some love.

• Avoid hot styling tools
• Get rid of those buns and let your hair down
• Get a good night’s sleep
• Add more protein to your diet
• Switch to toxin-free shampoos
• Revitalise your hair follicles

Here are some great products that can give your mane a helping hand in treating COVID hair loss:

Mamaearth Onion Oil For Hair Regrowth & Hair Fall Control With Redensyl

Mamaearth's Onion Hair Oil can help you combat this problem. Onion Oil being rich in sulphur, potassium & antioxidants, reduces hair fall & accelerates hair regrowth. On the other hand, Redensyl the new breakthrough ingredient for hair regrowth unblocks hair follicles & boosts new hair growth. And of course, it is free of harmful chemicals & toxins such as Silicones, Parabens, Mineral Oil, Dyes & Synthetic Fragrance.

Alps Goodness Amla Reetha & Shikakai Powder

This powder by Alps Goodness combines hair-loving properties of three ingredients - Amla, Reetha and Shikakai. Amla helps in treating hair loss and hair breakage. It stimulates hair growth and enhances the quality of hair. Reetha is known for promoting hair growth. While Shikakai de-tangles hair makes it lustrous and shiny.

Arata Hair Fall Control Combo with Onion Oil, Argan Oil & Bhringraj |Shampoo and Conditioner

This combo is packed with two powerhouse formulas from Arata- Anti-hair fall Super Shampoo and Nourishing Hair Conditioner. The shampoo boosts circulation and hair growth, restores moisture, and prevents hair thinning for a lush, natural look. The conditioner strengthens, hydrates and gently detangles hair, restoring a natural shine.

Good Vibes Hairfall Control Vitalizing Serum - Argan Oil

Give your hair the growth boost and nourishment it deserves with this serum! The goodness of Argan Oil repairs damaged hair effectively. It penetrates deep into the scalp to strengthen the hair and restore hair elasticity.

Power Gummies Hair Vitamin with Biotin

These multivitamins are made up of 11 Essential Vitamins and Minerals which are scientifically proven to aid hair growth. The Biotin in it increases keratin infrastructure which promotes strong hair and Vitamins A to E nourish the scalp enhancing hair growth.

Final Verdict!

COVID hair loss can be annoying and overwhelming but not difficult to treat when you give your hair exactly what it needs. And as we’ve mentioned before, putting that stress to rest is the sure-fire way to solve this problem. So hold on, give your mane all the love it needs and you’ll be ready to show off your long luscious hair soon. Do check out these best hair care tips for healthy hair.

We hope this was helpful. Till then XOXO!