Hair Loss with GLP-1’s
Is Hair Loss Common?
During the original clinical trials of Ozempic & Wegovy (the active ingredient is Semaglutide), participants did not report hair loss as a common side-effect. That means there is no DIRECT evidence than taking any form of semaglutide directly causes hair loss. But rapid weight loss has been linked to hair loss for decades. People who go through a period of rapid weight loss can develop a condition called telogen effluvium. Hair follicles go through natural, repeating cycles of growth and rest. During the growth phase, the hair follicles grow hair. During the rest phase, hair stops growing and therefore falls out. Then the follicle goes back into a growth phase. Each hair follicle goes through these cycles at slightly different times. This keeps hair from falling out all at one time.
Telogen effluvium occurs when many hair follicles go into the resting phase at the same time, therefore causing all of the affected hair follicles to shed at the same time, causing noticeable hair loss. This typically occurs after about 3 months of rapid weight loss.
THE GOOD NEWS
Not everyone who has rapid weight loss will develop telogen effluvium. Only some people are prone to this condition. It is not clear who is more susceptible to developing hair loss due to rapid weight loss. Telogen effluvium doesn’t damage the hair follicle, so hair loss isn’t permanent. Hair follicles will go back to their usual growth patterns after a few weeks or months. If you notice substantial hair loss, let us know.
Things that may help with hair loss:
Eat a healthy diet - include lean proteins, fruits, vegetables & whole grains in your daily routine.
Avoid severe calorie restrictions.
Get plenty of sleep, preferably at least 8 hours a night.
The following supplements may help: Biotin, Folic acid, Vitamin E, Zinc
Decrease stress - deep breathing, walking, mediation, reading or whatever helps you cope with or relieve stress (no stress eating!).
Review your medications - some medications can cause hair loss, if you are on medications that have this side effect, notify the doctor that prescribed them and see if there are any alternatives you can take. NEVER stop your medications without talking to your provider first.
Give your hair a break from chemicals that can cause damage to hair follicles. These can include coloring, perming, or relaxing your hair.
Change your hair styling tools or your hairstyle. Avoid heat styling and tight hairstyles that can stress your hair.
We offer exosomes (messenger cells that signal hair follicles to grow more hair). It is a solution rubbed on the scalp daily.
Nutrafol supplements, shampoo, masks, etc can be helpful.
