Telogen Effluvium is a type of temporary hair loss characterized by excessive shedding of hair, typically caused by a disruption in the normal hair growth cycle. This condition can affect both men and women of any age.

 

The hair growth cycle consists of three phases: anagen (growth phase), catagen (transitional phase), and telogen (resting phase). Telogen effluvium occurs when a large number of hair follicles prematurely enter the telogen phase, leading to increased hair shedding and noticeable thinning of the hair.

 

Several factors can trigger telogen effluvium, including but not limited to: childbirth, severe trauma or illness, a stressful or major life event, marked weight loss and extreme dieting, a severe skin problem affecting the scalp, a new medication or withdrawal of a hormone treatment.

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The hallmark of telogen effluvium is increased shedding of hair during daily activities such as washing, brushing, or styling. Unlike other forms of hair loss, telogen effluvium typically does not result in bald patches or noticeable thinning at the scalp's crown.

 

In most cases, telogen effluvium is temporary, and hair growth usually resumes once the underlying trigger or stressor is resolved. Management of telogen effluvium may include identifying and addressing the underlying cause, improving nutrition, reducing stress, and sometimes using topical minoxidil to promote hair regrowth.