Posted: Monday, August 10th, 2020
Although the official COVID-19 symptoms that are listed on the CDC website do not include hair loss, a growing number of reports and studies show patients are experiencing hair loss after contracting the new infectious disease.
In fact, in a recent crowdsourcing report by Survivor Corps, 27% of survey respondents listed hair loss as a long-term COVID-19 symptom; overall, hair loss was the 21st most common symptom of 98 possible symptoms reported in this survey of those suffering from long-term COVID-19 symptoms.
Among others, Dr. Esther Freeman, director of Global Health Dermatology at Massachusetts General Hospital and leading member of the American Academy of Dermatology, confirms this increase in hair loss in those who have had COVID-19.
So how is hair loss tied to COVID-19? Medical experts believe that it is likely connected to telogen effluvium, a temporary condition where people experience excessive hair shedding due to an illness or stressful life event. COVID-19 causes a large amount of physiological stress on the system, and when the body is under stress, it diverts blood and nutrients away from hair follicles.
In addition to the cases of hair loss among those who have been diagnosed with COVID, doctors are seeing – in general – more telogen effluvium. This is most likely a result of people having more stress in their lives because of the ongoing pandemic. This conclusion is supported by the fact that most people notice the hair loss a few months after the stressful event, which coincides with the peak of COVID.
Telogen effluvium is generally temporary, and hair should grow back to normal fullness after six to nine months from when the illness or stressful life event occurred. However, this condition has the potential to become chronic, with recurring cycles of shedding and regrowth but, to date, there isn’t enough medical evidence to determine if COVID-induced telogen effluvium could also be chronic.
Are you currently suffering from hair loss due to COVID-19? Our hair replacement experts at The Salon at 10 Newbury are here to help educate you on your options. We offer free private consultations. Come in and learn about all of your hair replacement options, including luxurious real hair wigs, hairpieces and toppers.
Marlo started experiencing excessive hair shedding after enduring the Covid-19 virus. As her shedding progressed and everything she tried to do to stop it wasn’t working, we were able to help her find a solution – the Trend Topette by Follea. The Trend Topette is the perfect solution for anyone who is experiencing the initial stages of hair loss or shedding. We customized this hair topette by adding a shadow root & lowlight to blend in with Marlo’s existing hair. Finished off with a fresh fringe to stay on trend!
The Salon now offers complimentary, private virtual video consultations with our hair replacement specialist, Pat Wrixon. It is a quick & easy process and it is all done from the comfort & privacy of your home. Learn more on our website.
