What in the world is Telogen Effluvium?

You may be surprised when I tell you that Telogen effluvium is extremely common. You may be even more surprised to know that you either have already or will in the future experience this very common issue. 

Telogen Effluvium is a fancy way to describe the excessive hair fall that usually happens after a major hormonal shift, such as after giving birth. During pregnancy, estrogen spikes in a woman’s body, causing the hair follicles to remain in the anagen, or growth phase, for longer periods of time. The longer the hair stays in this anagen phase, the longer and thicker it becomes, with noticeably less shedding. 

Then, as if birth isn’t shocking enough, so many women are surprised to find that after the baby is born, their hair begins to shed at an alarming rate. The hairbrush and the shower drain fill with hair, and one is left to wonder how there’s any hair left at all. 

You’re Not Alone

As concerning as this sounds, this is only the very normal result of estrogen returning to its normal pre-pregnancy levels. With the drop in estrogen comes the inevitable return to regular hair growth cycles, resulting in a rather abrupt resumption of shedding. For most women, this lasts anywhere from three to twelve months. 

If any of this sounds familiar, know it’s not your imagination, and you are not alone. Although it can be worrying to see so much hair fall, it’s essential to treat your hair with as much care as possible. Use mild products, detangle gently, and use very light styling methods. And, of course, see your Incentives hairstylist for guidance, support, and encouragement! 

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About the Author

Elizabeth Zitvogel

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