Telogen Effluvium

Telogen is the TRANSIENT increased shedding of normal club hairs (telogen) from the resting scalp follicles caused by an accelerated shift of anagen (growth phase) into catagen and telogen (resting phase). Understanding the normal hair growth cycle is important.

This condition can occur at any age, but is more common in women. It is a diagnosis of exclusion which is caused by physical and emotional stress. It is the second most common cause of hair loss. This is a very common occurrence after a "crash diet". Whatever the precipitating event, the telogen effluvium occurs about 6-16 weeks LATER.

The hair loss is diffuse and includes the sides and back of the scalp. This is sometimes associated with fingernail changes called Beau's lines which are transverse lines in the fingernail and toenails.

COMPLETE REGROWTH OF HAIR IS THE RULE. Telegen can continue for 6-12 months after the initial insult to the hair occurs. No intervention is needed or required usually but PRP is considered a promising option.