COVID-19 has affected people in various ways. Apart from respiratory issues, hair loss is another distressing problem that some people face after recovering from COVID-19. In this article, we will discuss the causes of hair loss after COVID-19 and how to prevent it.
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Causes of Hair Loss After COVID-19
Hair loss after COVID-19 can be attributed to various factors, including:
Stress
COVID-19 can be a stressful experience for many people. Stress can lead to hair loss, as it causes hair follicles to enter a resting phase. This condition is known as telogen effluvium, and it can cause hair to fall out in clumps.
Illness
Illnesses like COVID-19 can cause hair loss, as the body diverts nutrients to fight the infection instead of nourishing hair follicles. This can result in hair thinning and hair fall.
Medications
Some medications used to treat COVID-19, such as remdesivir and tocilizumab, can cause hair loss as a side effect. Hair loss can also result from the stress of taking multiple medications.
Preventing Hair Loss After COVID-19
The following tips can help prevent hair loss after COVID-19:
Manage Stress
Stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing can help reduce stress levels and prevent hair loss.
Eat a Balanced Diet
Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can help nourish hair follicles and prevent hair loss. Include foods like leafy greens, nuts, and fish in your diet.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking enough water can help keep hair hydrated and healthy. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day.
Get Enough Sleep
Getting enough sleep can help reduce stress levels and prevent hair loss. Aim for at least seven to eight hours of sleep a night.
Avoid Tight Hairstyles
Avoid tight hairstyles like braids, buns, and ponytails, as they can pull on hair and cause damage and hair loss.
Hair Care Tips
The following hair care tips can help prevent hair loss after COVID-19:
Use a Mild Shampoo
Use a mild shampoo to wash your hair, as harsh shampoos can strip hair of its natural oils and cause damage and hair loss.
Avoid Heat Styling
Avoid using heat styling tools like straighteners and curling irons, as they can damage hair and cause hair loss.
Avoid Chemical Treatments
Avoid chemical treatments like hair dye and perms, as they can damage hair and cause hair loss.
Use a Wide-Tooth Comb
Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle your hair, as it is less likely to cause breakage and hair loss.
FAQs
How long does hair loss last after COVID-19?
Hair loss after COVID-19 can last for several months. However, it is usually temporary and resolves on its own.
Can hair loss after COVID-19 be permanent?
Although rare, hair loss after COVID-19 can be permanent in some cases. If you are concerned about your hair loss, consult a doctor or dermatologist.
What vitamins help prevent hair loss?
Vitamins like biotin, vitamin D, and iron can help prevent hair loss. Consult a doctor or dietitian before taking any supplements.
Can hair loss after COVID-19 be prevented?
Although hair loss after COVID-19 cannot be prevented completely, following a healthy lifestyle and hair care routine can help reduce the risk of hair loss.
By following the tips and advice given in this article, you can prevent hair loss after COVID-19 and promote healthy, lustrous hair.
