When you think about long-term Covid 19 side effects, you may think of the loss of taste and smell, brain fog, and fatigue. Unfortunately hair loss caused by Covid 19 is another commonly reported side effect. Medical studies estimate that 22% of people hospitalized with Covid 19 experienced hair loss after their illness.
Hair Shedding
On a positive note, it is important to note that the hair loss associated with Covid 19 is not permanent. This type of sudden and temporary hair loss is a condition called telogen effluvium. It’s hair shedding.
Normally, our hair goes through a cycle of growing, resting, and shedding. Some hair shedding is normal. On average people shed about 100 hairs a day, but people with telogen effluvium may shed between 300 and 1,000 hairs per day.
Covid 19 and Hair Loss
Some people who have tested positive for Covid 19 experience hair shedding 2-3 months after infection. Hair shedding is often noticed during washing, brushing, or styling hair. Doctors are not certain what causes hair loss in people who have had Covid 19, but there are several theories.
One theory is that hair loss is caused by the fever associated with Covid 19. High or prolonged periods of fever can prematurely force hair into a shedding phase. Another possibility is that hair loss is stress-related. Like a fever, stress can also force hair into the shedding phase. Being sick, especially with a serious illness like Covid 19, is certainly stressful.
The hair shedding may last 6 to 9 months, or longer in some cases. No matter what the cause, the hair will grow back and return to normal on its own. Most people see their hair return to its normal fullness in 6 to 9 months or up to 2 years for long hair.
Hair Loss and Wigs
Wigs are a common solution for those dealing with hair loss, no matter what the cause. Wearing a wig can also help combat the stress associated with illness and hair loss. Wigs can help relieve feelings of stress or embarrassment, make hair styling easier, restore confidence, and also protect hair as it regrows.
Your hair will grow back, but this newly grown hair is delicate and fragile. As it regrows, you don’t want to style your hair with harsh chemicals or heat tools like curling iron or straighteners. It can also be damaged by excessive sun exposure. With a wig, you can protect your growing hair from damage and still sport a stylish look.
Some people who wear wigs during hair loss actually continue to wear wigs even after their hair grows back. It’s just a matter of finding the right wig for you. Maybe finding the beauty and convenience of wearing wigs will be a silver lining post Covid 19!
At Wig Elegance, we understand the stress and feelings surrounding any type of hair loss. Our compassionate staff will conduct consultations and wig fittings in a private area. It’s our goal to help you find a wig that maintains your natural appearance, restores your self-esteem and confidence, and looks amazing!
For help finding your perfect wig, call the experts at Wig Elegance at 215-945-4900.