Understanding Your Hair Loss After Covid-19 – Causes and Symptoms
Covid-19 has turned the world upside down, and we are still discovering new after-effects of the disease. One of the most common yet lesser-known side-effects is hair loss. It can be a distressing and disheartening condition, especially to those who didn't expect it. Therefore, in this blog post, we aim to educate our readers on the possible reasons why hair loss can occur after Covid-19, the symptoms that accompany it, and available treatments.
1) The Science behind Covid-19 and Hair Loss
Covid-19 is a respiratory illness, but it can also affect the body's integumentary system. The virus can cause inflammation throughout the body, including hair follicles, resulting in hair loss. Hair loss can manifest in two ways – telogen effluvium and alopecia areata. Telogen effluvium is often a temporary condition where hair falls out from all parts of the scalp. Alopecia areata, on the other hand, results in patchy hair loss from certain parts of the scalp.
2) Symptoms and Causes of Hair Loss after Covid-19
Hair loss after Covid-19 can start anywhere from two weeks to three months after the initial infection. Some of the common symptoms of hair loss after Covid-19 include thinning hair, bald spots, and excessive hair fall. Causes of this hair loss may include stress, the trauma the body experienced during the fight, and malnutrition. Lack of physical activity and spending extended periods of time without being outside can also attribute to hair thinning and loss.
3) Available Treatments for Hair Loss after Covid-19
The best way to start treating hair loss is to consult a professional hair specialist. The diagnostic process can determine the root cause of hair loss. Keep in mind, treatment options for hair loss may take time to see visible results. Amongst the treatment options available for hair loss after Covid-19 are:
- This medication stimulates hair growth and thickening of existing hair by increasing blood flow to the scalp.
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: This therapy involves injecting growth factors into the scalp to promote hair growth and thickness.
- Anti-inflammatory medication: This medication is administered to reduce inflammation and irritation in hair follicles resulting from the Covid-19 infection.
4) Lifestyle changes that can Help Prevent Hair Loss
Taking steps to maintain a healthy lifestyle can reduce hair loss caused by Covid-19. Incorporating a healthy diet that consists of iron-rich foods like lean meats, leafy green vegetables, and whole grains is essential for healthy hair growth. Vitamin B12 and D3 supplements are also known to encourage hair growth. Along with a healthy diet, exercise can help reduce stress and boost circulation, aiding in hair growth.
Identifying the Type of Hair Loss You’re Experiencing After Covid - Thinning Hair, Bald Patches, or Excessive Shedding
It’s no secret that Covid has brought about many unprecedented changes to our lives, including physical changes such as hair loss. Hair loss associated with Covid has been observed worldwide and can take many forms, ranging from shedding to excessive thinning and bald patches. Understanding which type of hair loss you’re experiencing can help you identify the best treatment options available to you.
Thinning Hair:
One of the most common types of hair loss associated with Covid is thinning hair. This type of hair loss is characterized by a gradual decrease in hair thickness and volume. Thinning hair can occur for a variety of reasons, including stress, hormonal changes, genetics, and of course, Covid. If you’re experiencing thinning hair, there are many treatments available to help you regain your hair volume. These include topical treatments, laser therapy, and hair transplant surgery. However, it’s important to speak with a dermatologist first before trying any treatments to ensure you receive the proper diagnosis for your hair loss.
Bald Patches:
Another type of hair loss associated with Covid is bald patches. This type of hair loss is characterized by circular, smooth, and sometimes itchy bald patches on the scalp. Bald patches can happen to both men and women and often happen when the immune system attacks hair follicles, resulting in hair loss. The most common treatment recommended for bald patches is cortisone injections, which help to reduce inflammation and stimulate hair regrowth. However, the effectiveness of cortisone injections may vary, and some people may require a hair transplant to achieve successful regrowth.
Excessive Shedding:
Lastly, excessive shedding is another type of hair loss related to Covid. This type of hair loss is characterized by a sudden increase in hair shedding, often leading to noticeable thinning and hair loss in a short period of time. Excessive shedding can be caused by a variety of factors, including hormonal changes, stress, poor nutrition, and viral illnesses. If you’re experiencing excessive shedding, it’s important to consult with your doctor or a dermatologist to help you determine the underlying cause. Depending on the cause of excessive shedding, treatment may include changes in diet, supplementation, or a switch in medication.
Check Ingredients of your Shampoo & Conditioner - Avoid those with Sulphates, Parabens, SLS, etc.
The hair care industry has been rapidly evolving in the recent past, and with organic products and DIY hair care remedies becoming popular, there are a lot of things that we need to be aware of when it comes to our hair maintenance. While it can be tempting to grab whatever shampoo or conditioner that is on offer or that your favorite influencer is promoting, it is important to be aware of the ingredients that go into your hair products. One must particularly watch out for Sulphates, Parabens, and SLS as these chemicals have been linked to hair damage and other health concerns.
1) Sulphates – Sulphates are often found in shampoos and hair products that produce a lot of foam. They are responsible for the foaming in these products but can lead to hair dryness, frizziness and breakage. It can be particularly harmful to those with colored hair as sulphates can strip hair of its natural oils and color. So, if you want to maintain the moisture in your hair, then use shampoo and conditioners that are labeled as sulphate-free.
2) Parabens – Parabens are a class of preservatives used in shampoos and conditioners to extend the shelf life of the product. Although not much evidence is available, Parabens have been associated with Breast Cancer, Skin Allergies, and Hormonal disturbances. So, make sure to read the label carefully to see if there are any Parabens present in your hair products.
3) SLS – Sodium Lauryl Sulfates (SLS) is a common ingredient found in shampoos, conditioners, and other personal care products. They are known to generate foam and lather the hair, but at the same time, they can dry them out. Consistent usage of products containing SLS can lead to hair fall, scalp irritation, and dandruff. For those having sensitive skin or thin hair, it is essential to stay away from SLS containing products.
4) Silicones – While silicones do not have any health concerns per se, they are not the best ingredients when it comes to hair care. Silicones coat the hair and prevent nutrients from penetrating the hair shaft. This results in hair damage, and it becomes harder to manage. So, one must avoid hair care products that contain silicones.
5) DEA – Diethanolamine is an ingredient added to shampoos to make them foam better. However, they are known to react with Nitrites to form a carcinogen, which can potentially lead to cancer. So, it is highly recommended to steer clear of shampoos that contain DEA.
Use the right hair care routine to conquer hair loss from Covid
Are you losing a lot of hair after recovering from Covid? Well, unfortunately, many are suffering from this problem. One of the long-term side effects of Covid is hair loss. The virus damages the immune system of your body. It also leaves the body with deficiencies.
If seeking hair loss treatment, the first step is to go for the best shampoo and conditioner for hair loss after Covid. But can shampoos and toiletries help in the regrowth of the hair? YES! To a large extent, the right choice of hair cleansing products can prove helpful in reversing the damage. Follicle stimulators are needed to improve thinning of the hair follicles . But, a good cleaning can encourage natural hair growth. Keep the scalp clean and fresh
The best way to start maintaining healthy hair is by keeping the scalp clean. This is possible by using the right shampoo and cleansers. Find the type of your hair. Is it dry, oily, or normal texture? Sometimes, your scalp may differ from your hair type. It means your hair is dry and frizzy, but the scalp is too oily. Dandruff, flaky scalp, and sticky head are common problems that lead to hair loss.
You can address this problem by regularly washing the head and conditioning the hair. Look for the ingredients in the shampoo, conditioners and follicle stimulators like biotin, keratin, jojoba, quinoa saw palmetto, and of course vitamin e and vitamin c are some of the terms you can find. It is significant to know that there is a wide range for hair and scalp and the best example is the Biotin Xtreme Hair Care shampoo.
Natural Ingredients to Look for in Shampoo and Conditioner for Hair Loss After Covid
After the pandemic, a lot of us have experienced hair loss and damage, causing panic and distress. Hair loss is common after a high fever or any illness that stresses the body, including COVID-19. The good news is - you can help your hair regrow and become healthy by using the right shampoo and conditioner. However, it is essential to look for natural ingredients that nourish your hair and prevent hair loss.
1. Biotin: Biotin is a B vitamin that contributes to the growth of hair cells. It helps strengthen and thicken your hair by improving its structure and elasticity. Biotin also prevents breakage and split ends. Adding shampoo and conditioner with biotin to your hair care routine reduces hair shedding. You can get biotin through food or supplements, but using biotin-infused hair products also nourishes your scalp and hair.
2. Vitamin B5: Also called panthenol, vitamin B5 is another essential ingredient in shampoo and conditioner for hair loss. It helps hair follicles work efficiently and prevents hair loss. Vitamin B5 makes your hair softer, shinier, and fuller. It also penetrates deep into the hair shaft, strengthening it from the inside out. Look for shampoo and conditioner that contains vitamin B5 for healthy hair growth.
3. Avocado oil: Avocado oil contains vitamins A, D, and E that nourish and moisturize your scalp and hair. It stimulates blood flow to your scalp, which promotes hair growth. Avocado oil also helps seal the cuticle layer, preventing breakage and improving hair elasticity. Regular use of shampoo and conditioner with avocado oil can moisturize and revitalize tired, dull hair.
4. Aloe Vera: Aloe Vera is one of the best natural ingredients to condition and strengthen your hair. It has enzymes that repair dead skin cells on your scalp, promoting hair growth. Aloe Vera also balances the pH level of your scalp, reducing hair loss. It is rich in vitamins and minerals that nourish your hair and prevent damage. Adding shampoo and conditioner with Aloe Vera will leave your hair soft, shiny, and hydrated.
5. Tea tree oil: Tea tree oil has antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties that prevent dandruff and scalp infections. It unclogs hair follicles and promotes hair growth. Tea tree oil also soothes irritated scalp, reducing itching and inflammation. Shampoo and conditioner with tea tree oil can help prevent hair loss and make your hair thick and healthy.
Best shampoo for hair loss due to covid
- Anti-breakage hair care: You can experience hair breakage after covid or during the recovery time. The hair loss does not happen from the roots but damages the hair from the mid-section. Hair breakage is a common issue after any ailment, and Covid makes the hair very brittle. Get a shampoo that contains biotin to treat hair loss after covid. It will strengthen the hair fibers and reduce the breakage while combing and tying.
- Hair-thickening shampoo: Loss of hair after covid can thin the number of follicles on your head. Since covid is an ailment that attacks your immune system, it weakens the hair follicles that cause baldness. You can feel that your hair has lost volume. It is thinning from everywhere. Get hair thickening shampoos and conditioners and boost the hair volume.
- Scalp stimulating hair care: When you start losing hair and are frantically searching for an answer to stop hair loss after covid, you must address the issue by using root stimulating shampoo and biotin restoration spray and follicle stimulator.. The scalp stimulant hair cleansers are ideal for removing any build-ups at the root level. These also help in stimulating the hair follicles that boost hair growth. Using these follicle stimulating products you can combat the further damage that happens for months during the recovery period.
The Wrap – Dos and Don’ts
Do use Biotin Xtremes biotin based shampoo, biotin keratin conditioners, and follicle stimulators to improve blood flow to the follicle and help stimulate hair growth. Used over time these products can help reduce the effects of covid and bring the growth rate back to normal if used consistently and as directed.
Add your diet with biotin and vitamin E supplements to provide nourishment from the inside. When seeking Covid hair loss treatment, targeting internal and external issues is significant.
