Some people have reported losing hair after recovering from COVID-19. This condition is called Telogen Effluvium (TE). It is a form of temporary hair loss that can occur due to stress, shock, or an illness. 

People who have recovered from COVID-19 might still be battling the after-effects of the infectious Coronavirus. Hair loss in recuperated COVID-19 patients could also be aggravated due to the effect of medications, panic, and isolation.  

Telogen effluvium typically affects the top of your scalp. It is characterized by hair thinning or excessive hair shedding. Also, it is more common in women and is triggered by disturbances in the hair cycle (hair growth).

Telogen effluvium or temporary hair loss typically starts 2 to 3 months after recovery from COVID-19. It may last up to 6 to 9 months. You may notice more hair fall than normal when you comb or shampoo your hair. You may also find more hair on your pillow or on the floor. 

There are some easy and effective hair care and dietary tips to prevent and treat hair fall after recovering from COVID-19. 

1. Consult a hair specialist or a dermatologist for hair loss. 

2. Try meditation and calming exercises to keep anxiety, fear, and stress at bay.

3. Avoid chemical and heat treatments for your hair or scalp as they can do more harm than good. 

4. Have a balanced and healthy diet to prevent nutritional deficiencies as these may impact both hair structure and hair growth.

What To Eat For Healthy Hair And Scalp

Include foods rich in these nutrients in your diet to improve hair quality and promote the growth of hair follicles. 

1. Iron and Zinc

These are two essential minerals that not only nourish your body but also help hair follicles to grow. 

Easily available sources of iron and zinc include lean red meat, lentils, soya bean, grapefruit, lemon, tomato, strawberry, almond, apricot, raisin, and pumpkin.

Spinach is also a rich source of iron and zinc. Apart from this, it is rich in nutrients such as vitamin A, K, E, C, B, and manganese. Consumption of spinach keeps your scalp healthy by improving keratin levels and promoting hair growth.

2. Protein 

Protein is the main building block of your body. It promotes cell repair and growth and strengthens your hair. 

Some dietary sources including chicken, egg white, lentils, pulses, and paneer supply protein to your body and improve hair quality. 

3. Vitamin B

One of the B vitamins, Biotin or vitamin B7, is considered essential for hair health. There are studies that show that biotin deficiency causes hair loss in humans. 

The other B vitamins help in the formation of red blood cells, which carry oxygen and nutrients to your scalp and hair follicles and thus promote hair growth.

Whole grains (whole wheat, oats, and barley), almonds, leafy greens, meat, fish, and seafood are good sources of vitamin B. 

4. Vitamin D

Vitamin D helps activate hair growth by stimulating your hair follicles. Its deficiency may lead to hair loss. 

Include dairy products, oranges, cheese, egg yolk, and fatty fish like tuna and salmon in your diet to get your daily dose of Vitamin D.

5. Vitamin C

Vitamin C is an antioxidant (it helps protect against the damage caused by free radicals to your cells). It is also needed to create collagen, a protein that is an important part of your hair structure. 

Further, vitamin C helps your body absorb iron, whose importance for hair growth has already been elucidated. Rich sources of vitamin C include citrus fruits, strawberries, bell peppers, and guava. 

Amla or Indian gooseberry is a popular ancient remedy for hair fall and is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. It purifies your blood and prevents premature greying of hair. You can either make amla juice or consume it in the form of murabba or pickle.

A balanced diet can help prevent hair fall, speed up hair growth, and increase hair strength. You can try these tips to regain your hair’s natural glory. 

If your hair fall does not reduce with these dietary and lifestyle changes, do not hesitate to seek medical help. 


Disclaimer: This article is written by the Practitioner for informational and educational purposes only. The content presented on this page should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. Please "DO NOT SELF-MEDICATE" and seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns. Practo will not be responsible for any act or omission arising from the interpretation of the content present on this page.