Hair & Scalp
Telogen Effluvium
WHAT IS IT
Temporary, diffuse hair shedding
HOW COMMON
Very common; a frequent cause of shedding
CONTAGIOUS?
No — you cannot catch it or spread it
CURABLE?
Yes — usually recovers on its own
What Is It?
Telogen effluvium is a temporary increase in hair shedding, where more hairs than usual enter the resting phase and fall out a few months after a trigger. You may notice lots of hair on the pillow, in the shower, or in your brush, and overall thinning — but not bald patches. It usually recovers on its own once the trigger passes.
Signs & Symptoms
-
Noticeably increased hair shedding all over the scalp
-
Diffuse thinning without distinct bald patches
-
Often begins 2–3 months after a trigger
-
More hair in the brush, shower, or on the pillow
-
Scalp looks normal (no rash or scarring)
Why Does It Happen?
A stress to the body pushes many hairs into the resting (telogen) phase at once; they shed about 2–3 months later. Common triggers include illness or high fever, childbirth, surgery, rapid weight loss, major stress, thyroid problems, low iron, and certain medications. Because there's a delay, the trigger may have been months earlier. It is NOT permanent hair loss.
Treatment Options
The main step is identifying and correcting the trigger; hair then regrows over months. Checking for iron, thyroid, and other contributors is often worthwhile.
ADDRESS THE TRIGGER
Treating illness, correcting iron/thyroid, and reducing stress.
REASSURANCE & TIME
Shedding usually settles and hair regrows over 3–6 months.
CHECK BLOODWORK
Iron, thyroid, and other tests when shedding is prolonged.
GENTLE HAIR CARE
Avoid harsh treatments; support regrowth while you recover.
Tips for Managing It at Home
-
Know that shedding usually reflects a trigger months earlier
-
Eat well and address low iron or thyroid issues if present
-
Be gentle with your hair; avoid tight styles and harsh treatments
-
Be patient — most people recover fully within 6–12 months
When to Call Your Provider
-
Shedding continues beyond about 6 months
-
Bald patches, scarring, scalp redness, or scaling
-
Signs of thyroid problems or heavy periods (possible iron loss)
-
Distress or uncertainty about the cause
Sources & further reading
The information in this handout is based on general dermatology guidance from the reputable organizations below. These links are provided for patients who wish to read more from trusted sources.
American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Hair Loss: Causes. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/hair-loss/causes/18-causes
Canadian Dermatology Association (CDA). Alopecia. https://dermatology.ca/public-patients/diseases-conditions/hair-conditions/alopecia/
DermNet. Telogen Effluvium. https://dermnetnz.org/topics/telogen-effluvium
MSD/Merck Manual. Alopecia. https://www.msdmanuals.com/professional/dermatologic-disorders/hair-disorders/alopecia
This handout is for general education and does not replace advice from your own provider. Always follow your provider’s specific instructions.
← Back to all handouts