Why am I going through hair loss after weight loss?

A weight-loss journey is not easy, especially for women who have never entered a gym or don’t believe in working out. Food lovers will also find it hard to follow strict diet plans. But if weight loss is your goal, you need to make some sacrifices. Before you start the journey, you should know that it’s not just extra pounds that you will be losing. There may be some side effects of weight loss, and that includes hair loss!

Health Shots connected with Dr Kuna Ramdas, Senior Dermatologist, Kamineni Hospitals, Hyderabad, to find out how hair loss and weight loss are connected. He says one of the most common side effects of weight loss is hair loss. So, it is important to understand why it happens and what can be done about it.

Causes of hair loss after weight loss

In this day and age, we want everything to be done quickly. We want to wrap up work fast, reach a place within minutes or finish meals quickly and even lose weight within a week! There is always the rapid weight loss option women can go for, but that comes with side effects. Dr Ramdas says that when you lose weight rapidly, your body experiences stress. This can cause changes in your hormone levels and nutrient deficiencies, both of which can lead to hair loss. Also, when you are in calorie deficit, your body may prioritise vital organs over hair growth, leading to hair thinning or shedding.

Regrowth after hair loss from weight loss

The good news is that hair loss from weight loss is often temporary. Once your body starts adjusting to your new weight and your nutrient levels are restored, your hair should start to grow back. However, it may take several months for noticeable regrowth, says the expert.

Tips to stop hair loss after weight loss

The best way to prevent hair loss during weight loss is to lose weight slowly and in a healthy manner. This means eating a balanced diet with plenty of protein, vitamins, and minerals, and avoiding crash diets. If you are already experiencing hair loss, there are a few things you can do,

1. Speak to your doctor

Your doctor can help you to identify any nutrient deficiency or hormonal imbalance that may be contributing to your hair loss. The expert may tell you to go for supplements or treatments if needed.

2. Be gentle with your hair

Avoid pulling or twisting your hair, and be gentle while combing your hair. Also, use mild shampoos and conditioners.

3. Reduce stress

Stress over work or even fitness goals can exacerbate hair loss, so try to incorporate stress-reducing activities like yoga, meditation or deep breathing into your routine.

Ways to regrow hair after weight loss

If you don’t want to wait for long, you can try out a few things.

1. Scalp massage

The expert says massaging your scalp increases blood flow to the hair follicles, which can promote growth. Use your fingertips (try not to have long nails) to gently massage your scalp for a few minutes each day.

2. Essential oils

Some essential oils such as lavender and peppermint have been shown to promote hair growth, says Dr Ramdas. Mix a few drops with a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba, and apply it to your scalp.

3. Aloe vera

Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to soothe an irritated scalp and promote hair growth. Go for fresh aloe vera gel and apply it to your scalp. Let it stay on your scalp for 30 minutes then wash it off.

4. Biotin

Dr Ramdas says biotin is a B vitamin, which is needed for healthy hair growth. You can easily find its supplements at health food stores.

Hair loss after weight loss can be frustrating, but don’t stress over it as it is usually temporary.