Does it seem like you're suddenly losing handfuls of hair? Are you noticing more hair coming out in the shower, in your hairbrush, or as you run your hands through your hair?

Though it’s normal to lose 50 to 100 hairs a day, if you're experiencing sudden, increased hair loss (such as 200-300 hairs per day) over your entire scalp, you may have “telogen effluvium" (TE).

Telogen effluvium may occur when there has been some type of significant shock to your system, either physical or emotional. This can cause your hair roots to be prematurely pushed into their ‘resting stage’ (telogen phase), which causes the hair to fall out in more noticeable amounts.

The shock can be something such as surgery, illness, a stressful event, medications, diets, or pregnancy. The subsequent hair loss usually occurs anywhere from 1 to 4 months after the event (but can take longer).

A checkup to rule out other possible causes for hair loss is a good idea; medical conditions such as thyroid disorders, hormonal imbalances, iron deficiency, fungal infections of the scalp, and certain medications (including antidepressants, birth control pills, others) can also cause hair loss.

The good news? With telogen effluvium, hair will typically regrow once the stressful situation or condition has resolved. Though recovery can take a few months, treatment is not usually necessary other than supportive measures such as a healthy diet and key supplements.

To speed the hair regrowth process, consider Hair Essentials™. Hair Essentials™ nourishes your follicles with the nutrients they need to promote healthy, thicker new hair growth!