Anagen Scalp
17 Sept 2025
One of the unexpected aftereffects of COVID-19 for many people has been Post COVID Hair Loss. Weeks or even months after recovering, patients report unusual hair shedding.
One of the unexpected aftereffects of COVID-19 for many people has been Post COVID Hair Loss. Weeks or even months after recovering from the virus, patients report unusual shedding, thinner ponytails, and hair coming out in clumps during showering or brushing. While alarming, this type of hair loss is typically temporary and linked to stress on the body during and after infection.
What Is Post COVID Hair Loss?
Post COVID Hair Loss refers to excessive hair shedding that occurs after a COVID-19 infection. Doctors categorize this as a form of telogen effluvium, a condition where more hair follicles than usual shift into the resting phase of the hair cycle. After 2–3 months, those resting hairs shed at once, leading to noticeable thinning.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, this shedding is not caused by the virus directly attacking hair follicles. Instead, it’s a side effect of physical and emotional stress on the body.
Key points:
Typically starts 2–3 months after infection.
Can cause shedding of 100–300 hairs daily.
More common in women but occurs in men too.
Usually temporary, resolving within 6–9 months.
Causes of Post COVID Hair Loss
Why does COVID-19 trigger hair shedding? Experts highlight several contributing factors:
Physiological stress – The illness itself puts stress on the body.
Fever and inflammation – High fever is a well-known trigger for temporary hair loss.
Immune system response – The immune reaction to COVID-19 can disrupt normal follicle activity.
Emotional stress – Anxiety, isolation, or post-illness recovery fatigue may worsen shedding.
Nutritional changes – Loss of appetite or changes in diet during recovery can affect hair health.
Table: Causes and How They Impact Hair
Cause | Mechanism | Effect on Hair Cycle |
Fever / Illness Stress | Shock pushes follicles into resting phase | Sudden shedding |
Immune system changes | Inflammation impacts follicle environment | Thinning, slowed regrowth |
Emotional stress | Stress hormones shorten growth phase | Diffuse shedding |
Nutritional deficiencies | Lack of protein, iron, vitamin D, zinc | Brittle, shedding hair |
How Long Does Post COVID Hair Loss Last?
Post COVID Hair Loss is usually temporary. Most patients notice improvement within 6 months, though full recovery can take 9–12 months.
Timeline overview:
0–3 months post-infection – Little change, follicles in “resting” mode.
2–3 months after recovery – Sudden shedding begins.
3–6 months – Peak shedding, hair looks noticeably thinner.
6–9 months – Shedding slows, regrowth begins.
9–12 months – Most people regain previous hair density.
If shedding continues beyond a year, other causes (like thyroid disease, anemia, or hereditary conditions) should be investigated.
Who Is More Likely to Experience Post COVID Hair Loss?
Studies show that certain groups are more affected:
Women in their 30s–50s.
People who experienced high fever during infection.
Patients with pre-existing stress, anxiety, or nutritional deficiencies.
Individuals with autoimmune tendencies.
What Can You Do About Post COVID Hair Loss?
While shedding usually resolves on its own, supportive care can make a big difference in scalp health and hair regrowth.
Lifestyle and Home Care
Balanced nutrition – Eat iron, zinc, vitamin D, and protein-rich foods.
Stress reduction – Practice relaxation, yoga, or breathing exercises.
Gentle scalp care – Avoid harsh chemicals and tight hairstyles.
Hydration and sleep – Support the body’s recovery processes.
Medical and Clinical Support
Dermatology consultation – To rule out other causes of shedding.
Topical or oral treatments – Prescribed in some cases.
Regenerative scalp therapies – Non-drug options such as plasma infusion to nourish follicles.
innovative option available locally is the Plasma Scalp Boost Hair Loss Treatment, designed to strengthen follicles, reduce inflammation, and support recovery after stress-induced hair loss.
Myths vs Facts About Post COVID Hair Loss
Myth | Fact |
COVID permanently damages hair follicles | Shedding is temporary; follicles recover |
Only older people get hair loss after COVID | It affects men and women of all ages |
Hair won’t regrow once it sheds | Regrowth is the norm within 6–12 months |
Special shampoos alone can stop shedding | Scalp health helps, but recovery is systemic |
When to See a Doctor
You should consult a healthcare provider or professional scalp center if:
Shedding continues beyond 12 months.
Bald patches appear (could indicate alopecia areata).
Hair loss is accompanied by fatigue, weight changes, or hormonal symptoms.
Final Thoughts
Post COVID Hair Loss is a real but temporary phenomenon caused by the body’s stress response to illness. Although shedding can be distressing, most patients recover within a year with full regrowth. Supporting scalp health, nutrition, and stress management can speed up recovery.
For long-lasting scalp health, clinical treatments such as the Plasma Scalp Boost Hair Loss Treatment offer a science-backed option.
For more background on COVID-19’s systemic effects, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s COVID-19 resource hub.
