Some people notice their hair thinning or shedding more than usual while losing weight. Hair loss is listed as a possible side effect in the patient information leaflets for some weight management medicines. It can also happen following significant or rapid weight loss.
This type of temporary hair shedding is known as telogen effluvium. It happens when more hairs than usual enter the resting phase of the hair growth cycle and are shed a few months later.
Shedding may start a few months after weight loss begins and often improves as your weight and nutrition stabilise. For many people, it is temporary and the hair grows back. Please contact us if the shedding continues, becomes significant or you are worried about it, so a pharmacist can review your treatment.
Eating enough
It is normal for your appetite to reduce during weight management treatment. However, eating too little or not getting enough nutrients may contribute to hair shedding.
Try not to skip meals. Aim for small, regular, nutrient-dense meals that include sources of protein and nutrients such as iron, zinc, biotin and vitamin D. A gradual and sustainable rate of weight loss may also help reduce the likelihood of hair shedding associated with rapid weight change.
Fluid intake
Aim to drink 2 to 3 litres of fluid a day, spread throughout the day to help you stay well hydrated.
Looking after your hair
Try to avoid excessive heat styling, harsh chemical treatments and tight hairstyles, as these can cause additional hair breakage. Hair regrowth takes time, so you may not notice an improvement straight away.
Speak to your local pharmacy
Your local pharmacist can advise whether a supplement may be appropriate for you and check that it is suitable alongside any other medicines you take. Let them know that you are using weight management treatment so they can take this into account.
When should I contact Simple Online Pharmacy?
Contact us so a pharmacist can review your treatment if:
- The shedding is heavy or you are worried about how much hair you are losing.
- It has continued for more than six months.
- It started later in your treatment rather than around a period of significant weight loss.
- You are eating much less than usual or are struggling to maintain a balanced diet.
Do not stop your treatment or change your dose because of hair loss without speaking to us first. Contact us so that a pharmacist can review your symptoms and treatment.
When should I see my GP?
Not all hair loss is related to weight loss or weight management treatment. Speak to your GP if:
- You develop bald patches or hair loss in defined areas rather than general thinning.
- Your scalp is sore, scaly, red or inflamed.
- Your hair loss is accompanied by other symptoms, such as feeling unusually cold, constipation, unusually heavy periods or persistent tiredness.
- The hair loss continues despite your weight and diet becoming more stable.
Your GP can assess whether there may be another cause for your hair loss, such as thyroid problems or iron-deficiency anaemia.