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Over the past couple of years, significant changes have taken place in our lives: lockdown, remote work, zoom conferences instead of the usual active live communication … And if we have overcome all this, then the transferred virus itself can remind of itself for quite a long time. Many people complain that their hair falls out after the coronavirus. We will tell you what to do if such a nuisance occurs.
Why does hair fall out after covid in women (and in men too) and what to do in this situation? Urgently run to the trichologist? Or, nevertheless, stock up on patience, and at the same time, auxiliary means for maintaining hair?
To begin with, we recall that after any illness, and especially a viral one, the risk of hair loss is quite high, we have already written about this.
But in the case of COVID-19, there are nuances.
Scientists have found that after a coronavirus infection, hair begins to fall out after an average of 57-58 days, while after other infectious diseases – after 3-4 months. So far, there is no unambiguous scientific explanation for this fact, which is understandable – the virus is new, poorly understood. But research is being done, and there are already hypotheses. So far, it is reliably known that the virus itself does not affect hair follicles. Premature termination of the growth phase (anagen) and the entry of hair follicles into the telogen (loss) stage cause:
intoxication against the background of the infectious process;
elevated temperature (above 38,5 degrees), and even its short-term increase disrupts the normal hair growth cycle;
disruption of the immune system;
violation of the microcirculation of the skin of the scalp as a result of microthrombosis caused by covid;
taking certain drugs used during treatment for coronavirus infection (antiviral, anticoagulants, a number of antibacterial);
damage to the thyroid gland;
deficiency of protein, vitamins and microelements during illness;
stress.
hair begins to fall out about two months after the illness;
hair falls out intensively, sometimes even in bunches, their volume is quickly lost, which becomes additional stress for a person;
the percentage of telogen (falling out) hair increases to 25-30% (with a physiological norm of not more than 10-15%), which indicates a high degree of involvement of hair follicles in the pathological process;
trichologists note a sharply positive tension test (if you stretch a strand of hair between your fingers, a few hairs remain on your hand);
there is a slow, insufficient hair growth instead of the fallen ones, which is usually not typical for diffuse telogen loss against the background of deficiencies, stress, etc.;
hair becomes dull and loses its shine.
How to stop hair loss after covid?
With hair loss, you should carefully approach the choice of care products.
Is it possible to stop hair loss after covid? Theoretically, you can try. But so far no one has succeeded in preventing this process. Why does hair fall out after covid on the head of women? Because during the illness, the state of the body can change very dramatically: the virus often behaves unpredictably, and a mild course in one day can turn into a sharp deterioration, which instantly affects the condition of the hair.
The high temperature during illness disrupts the normal hair growth cycle.
If you were already treated for chronic alopecia before the illness, experts do not recommend interrupting the course prescribed by the specialist.
Even when active hair loss stops, the hair will not immediately regain its former volume. This will take additional time (6-8 months).
First of all, calm down and stop panicking. Hair loss may be noticeable, but this is usually temporary.
Stop counting your fallen hair. These calculations are meaningless and even harmful, as they increase the stress associated with the loss. If anxiety is on the rise, consider seeing your doctor for a possible anti-anxiety medication.
Wash your hair as usual without reducing the frequency. Just do it gently and use the right shampoos. If it is wrong to clean the scalp of sebaceous secretion, there is a risk of prolonging the loss and worsening the condition of the scalp.
You can try products with ingredients that help stop hair loss (such as aminexil) and regrowth, thickening new hair growth (such as stemoxidine lotions). But they must be used systematically and for a long time (the technique and duration of use are indicated on the package).
It makes sense to start taking multivitamin complexes containing B vitamins (pantothenic acid, biotin, nicotinic acid, etc.), omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), antioxidants. The doctor will help you choose the optimal complex.
Proper nutrition
It is equally important to adjust the diet. After illness, the body is weakened. Therefore, it makes sense to lean more on foods rich in amino acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids omega-3, -6, protein, vitamins.
Let there be more often on the table:
fish and seafood, which are rich in phosphorus, iodine and fatty acids;
nuts are a source of vitamin E and polyunsaturated fatty acids;
greens (vitamins C and A, as well as calcium, magnesium and iron will help hair gain strength faster);
vegetables, especially carrots and beets – they contain a lot of vitamins A and B, as well as trace elements – potassium, iron, etc .;
meat, eggs, dairy products (an invaluable source of protein necessary for the growth and strengthening of hair).
Massages
How else to strengthen hair after covid? A simple and accessible way is a regular massage.
You can use a massage brush, running it through your hair every time before going to bed at least 50 – 100 times.
To improve the microcirculation of the scalp, use aroma combing. This pleasant relaxing home ritual does not require special knowledge. Pick up a few aromatic oils that stimulate hair growth (for example, rosemary, lavender, tea tree or bergamot, sandalwood and jojoba). Put a few drops on the teeth of a wooden comb and comb for 10-15 minutes. If you use lavender oil, you can at the same time improve sleep.
Targeted head massage. In general, if hair falls out after the “crown”, any head massage is good. But there is nothing better than manual. And you can do it yourself. Here is a detailed instruction.
Any head massage begins with smoothing the eyebrows.
With the pads of the thumb and forefinger, lightly pinching movements, first walk along the eyebrows, and then move your fingers a little higher. Pressing on the skin, move from the center of the face to the periphery (temples).
Rub the area behind the ears with the bones of your fingers (in a circular motion).
Place your palm on your forehead with your fingers pointing towards your hairline. Run your fingers through your hair as if you were combing it. Repeat the movement 5-10 times.
With fingertips, massage the hair roots, moving from the crown to the growth line over the entire surface of the scalp. Repeat 7-10 times.
Put your hands on your temples. Run the pads of your fingers into the hair and massaging the skin in a circular motion, move to the crown and back. And so on the entire surface of the head 7-10 times.
Cosmetics for hair loss
These tools include the following components:
caffeine;
nicotinic acid;
ginkgo biloba;
an aminexil molecule (prevents the hardening of collagen around the mouth of the hair follicle, thus maintaining its normal blood supply);
peptides (stimulate hair growth, increase their strength).
We have collected for you the means that, in the opinion of the editors of Healthy-Food, will support the hair and scalp after the coronavirus and help you feel more confident. Here are our favourites.
Means against hair loss for women Dercos Aminexil Intensive 5, Vichy
Dercos toning shampoo against hair loss, Vichy
The action of the shampoo is most effective if used in combination with aminexil ampoules. The shampoo also includes aminexil, vitamins PP (B3), B5 and B6.
Serum for hair growth Dercos Densi-Solutions, Vichy
According to the editors, this is one of the best means to combat hair loss and to accelerate hair growth. Concentrated scalp serum intensively affects the skin, helping to strengthen the hair and stimulating the growth of new hair. Contains Stemoxidin and Resveratrol, a polyphenol derived from Reinutria japonica that protects and repairs the scalp from free radical damage.
Complex cream “Growth in full force 10-in-1” Fructis, Garnier
The apple extract and vegetable glycerin included in the product have a positive effect on hair prone to falling out due to brittleness. The product strengthens, protects against damage, helps prevent split ends and brittle hair, moisturizes well, smoothes strands, and gives hair shine. Apply to hair along the entire length.
Strengthening shampoo “Growth in full force” Fructis, Garnier
Strengthening mask “Growth in full force” Fructis, Garnier
The mask does not contain parabens. The formula nourishes the strands, helps to restore very dry, dyed, damaged or weakened hair.
Shampoo against hair loss Botanic Therapy “Castor oil and almonds”, Garnier
Cream-oil against hair loss Botanic Therapy “Castor oil and almonds”, Garnier
Promotes hair restoration. The formula does not weigh down the hair, has an antistatic effect, does not contain parabens.
Mask Power Mask against hair loss “Ultra Strength” Elseve, L’Oréal Paris
The mask is enriched with active ingredients such as biotin (vitamin B7), vitamin B5 and arginine. All these components in the composition of the mask are struggling with brittle hair. The mask, unlike the rest of the products listed in our review, can also be applied to the scalp, as it has strengthening properties and promotes active hair growth.
Salon procedures
What to do at home, we told in the previous chapter. Now let’s figure out how to restore hair after covid using salon procedures.
Darsonvalization
Physiotherapeutic massage with a comb darsonval shows itself to be very effective. This device acts on the scalp by means of an alternating pulsed high-frequency current. In the salon, you will be asked to remove all metal objects from yourself, and then they will slowly comb your hair. During the procedure, the power of exposure increases. You should feel a slight tingling sensation (very comfortable and pleasant). In general, the session lasts no more than 10 minutes. The course will require about 25 sessions (daily). Darsonval devices are also available for home use.
As salon procedures to stimulate hair growth are also recommended:
mesotherapy – will help stimulate hair growth thanks to special vitamin and mineral cocktails with amino acids;
plasmolifting – injections of one’s own platelet-rich plasma can provide significant assistance with hair loss.
It is recommended to combine any salon procedures for hair restoration after covid, and in another situation, with competent and systematic home care.
How long does hair fall out after covid?
If we are talking about loss caused by the consequences of COVID-19, then this process can take from 2 to 6 months. It should be borne in mind that the growth of new hair also takes time.
If the loss does not stop, then it makes sense to contact a trichologist. This recommendation should also not be neglected if the parting on the hair has become wider, redness has appeared on the scalp, and it seems to you that there are pockets of baldness.
Remember to regularly cleanse your hair and scalp with a shampoo that is suitable for your scalp type.
Try to give up hair dye and any aggressive procedures such as chemistry for a while.
Pay attention to your diet – it should be balanced.
In care, use products to stimulate hair growth – special shampoos and lotions. Follow the scheme: apply shampoo for hair loss, massage the scalp, lather hair, rinse, then apply shampoo again, leave for a few minutes, rinse (usually this is the scheme that is supposed to be used for shampoos against hair loss, carefully read the instructions; if another scheme for using the product is recommended, follow it). Apply leave-in lotion to clean, damp hair (massaging).
If possible, do not resort to the use of thermal devices, and if you use them, then always in the company with a thermal protective spray.
Summary results
If there is no chronic hair loss and other diseases, then after covid, hair can fall out within 3-6 months. During this time, there is a risk of losing up to 70% of hair. But then, as a rule, everything is restored. The volume returns a little later, since hair growth also takes a certain time (everything is individual).
Should I see a doctor for hair loss after the “corona”?
If you are concerned about hair loss, of course, you can consult a doctor. Especially if the process of falling out was delayed.
Be sure to check the level of vitamin D, exclude iron and zinc deficiency. If a deficiency of certain substances is detected, the doctor should prescribe medication for correction.
How to stop hair loss after COVID-19 with salon treatments?
Various home care products will help, as well as procedures prescribed by a trichologist. These procedures include:
mesotherapy – intradermal injection of vitamin complexes into the scalp;
the introduction of PRP-plasma enriched with growth factors;
peelings that promote exfoliation of the stratum corneum of the epidermis (help improve microcirculation in the skin and blood supply to hair follicles);
laser therapy.
These techniques allow you to awaken dormant follicles and transfer them to the active growth phase.