Last updated on September 3, 2025
Hair shedding is normal. We lose between 50 and 100 hairs every day. But when clumps start coming out in the shower or you’re vacuuming your pillowcase each morning, it can be alarming. Telogen effluvium is a common reason for this sudden increase in hair fall. It’s usually temporary and manageable, but understanding it early helps you treat it and deal with it more effectively.
This guide covers the key telogen effluvium symptoms, what causes it, how to recognise signs of recovery, and practical advice for getting your hair back on track.
What is Telogen Effluvium?
Telogen effluvium is a temporary type of hair loss that occurs when more hair follicles than usual enter the resting (telogen) phase of the hair cycle. After a delay of two to three months, those resting hairs shed, often all at once. Unlike other forms of hair loss, this condition rarely causes baldness. Instead, it leads to diffuse thinning across the scalp.
Common Telogen Effluvium Symptoms
The most noticeable sign is sudden hair shedding. You might find more hairs in your brush, on your pillow, in the shower drain, or on your clothes. Some people also report:
- Thinner ponytails or patches of thinner scalp
- A wider parting in the hair
- A general feeling that their hair looks less full
- Scalp sensitivity or discomfort (not always present)
Telogen effluvium symptoms can vary in severity. Some people lose a small percentage of their hair, while others may lose up to 50%. It affects both men and women, though it is more commonly reported by women, possibly because longer hair makes the shedding more noticeable.
What Causes Telogen Effluvium?
Telogen effluvium usually starts 2–3 months after a trigger. The causes vary widely and often involve a shock to the system. Common triggers include:
Major illness or fever
Conditions like COVID-19 or the flu can cause the body to pause non-essential functions like hair growth, while anaemia, thyroid conditions, and autoimmune diseases can cause hair fall.
- Stress
Emotional or physical stress, such as surgery, trauma, or a significant life change, is a frequent cause. - Hormonal changes
Post-pregnancy is a well-known trigger. Thyroid issues or stopping hormonal contraception can also be involved. - Poor nutrition
Sudden weight loss, restrictive diets, or deficiencies in iron, zinc, or protein can disrupt the hair cycle. - Medications
Certain medications such as antidepressants, beta-blockers, and blood pressure medications have been linked to shedding.
Pinpointing the exact cause can be tricky, especially when multiple factors are at play. A full hair and scalp analysis with a trained hair loss specialist can help determine the root of the problem.
How Long Does Telogen Effluvium Last?
One of the most frequently asked questions is, how long does telogen effluvium last? The good news is that for most people, it’s temporary. The shedding phase usually lasts between 3 and 6 months. In some cases, especially where the trigger remains (like chronic stress or ongoing illness), it may last longer.
The regrowth phase begins once the shedding stops, but because hair grows slowly, visible improvement can take months. A regrowth rate of about one centimetre per month is typical. That means it can take 6 to 12 months for hair to regain its previous volume.
To stop telogen effluvium, it’s important to identify and address the underlying trigger, whether that’s stress, illness, or nutritional deficiency, while supporting the scalp with gentle care. At Hair Doctors, our medical hair growth treatments, including scalp mesotherapy, exosome therapy, and plasma growth factor treatments, are designed to stimulate regrowth and restore healthy hair faster under doctor-led care.
Telogen Effluvium Recovery Signs
Noticing recovery can feel just as important as recognising the initial symptoms. Here are some telogen effluvium recovery signs to watch for:
- Baby hairs or short regrowing strands appearing, especially around the hairline or temples
- A gradual decline in daily shedding
- Hair that feels thicker or more textured than before
- Hair regrowth with a tapered end (this means the strand is new and not broken)
Keep in mind that recovery is not instant. Hair grows about 1 to 1.5 centimetres per month, which works out to around 12 to 15 centimetres per year, so hair growth takes time, and patience is key. However, there are medical hair regrowth treatments that can help improve hair health and regrowth that you can explore.
How to Stop Telogen Effluvium
If you’re wondering how to stop telogen effluvium, it starts with removing or managing the trigger. You can’t completely stop the shedding once it starts, but you can support the hair regrowth process with the following:
- Identify and address the cause
If it was stress, prioritise stress management. If it was illness or medication, speak with your GP about alternatives or ways to support recovery. Also, if you are unsure why your hair is shedding, it’s best to get a hair and scalp analysis to find out the underlying cause so treatment can be correctly planned. - Improve your nutrition
Include iron-rich foods, lean proteins, nuts, seeds, and leafy greens in your diet. Consider a blood test to check for deficiencies. - Gentle hair care
Avoid heat styling, harsh shampoos, and tight hairstyles. Use mild products and be gentle when brushing or towel drying. - Medical support
Hair growth treatments like growth factor therapy, scalp mesotherapy, or exosome treatments can help stimulate growth and reduce further shedding. These are typically performed in specialised hair restoration clinics under medical supervision. - Scalp care
Use shampoos that support scalp health, and avoid product build-up. Scalp massages may help increase blood flow to the follicles.
When to Seek Help for Your Hair Loss
While telogen effluvium is temporary, it can still be distressing. If your hair shedding continues beyond six months, or you’re unsure what’s causing it, it’s a good idea to see a specialist. You might be dealing with chronic telogen effluvium or another condition entirely, such as androgenetic alopecia.
Hair Doctors clinics in Sydney, Melbourne, and Parramatta offer in-depth scalp and hair analysis using advanced diagnostic tools. Our doctor-led team provides a clear diagnosis and a personalised treatment plan designed to support healthy regrowth and prevent further shedding.
Get Medical Hair Growth Treatments for Telogen Effluvium
Spotting telogen effluvium symptoms early can help you take action and support your hair’s recovery. While the condition often resolves on its own, there are practical steps you can take to manage it. By identifying the cause, making healthy lifestyle changes, and seeking professional advice when needed, you can improve your chances of a quicker and fuller recovery.
If you’ve been asking yourself, how long does telogen effluvium last or wondering about telogen effluvium recovery signs, remember: patience, support, and the right care go a long way. If you’re not sure how to stop telogen effluvium or need help with a treatment plan, get in touch with our experienced team for a private consultation in Melbourne, Sydney or Parramatta.
FAQs
How long does telogen effluvium last?
Most cases last around 3 to 6 months, though recovery can take up to a year depending on the trigger and your overall health. Shedding generally reduces before regrowth becomes visible. If you’re unsure whether your condition is temporary or something else is going on, book a consultation at Hair Doctors in Melbourne, Sydney or Parramatta.. Our doctor-led team will assess your scalp using the latest and most advanced artificial intelligence-driven hair analyzer called the HairMetrix, and provide a tailored plan using the latest in medical hair growth treatments.
How can I tell the difference between telogen effluvium and permanent hair loss?
Telogen effluvium usually involves uniform thinning rather than patchy or patterned hair loss. It also follows a clear event or trigger. If the shedding continues for more than 6 months or you notice recession or bald patches, another form of hair loss may be present. At Hair Doctors, our AI-powered scalp imaging technology helps distinguish between types of hair loss so you receive the right treatment.
Can stress really cause this much hair loss?
Yes. Significant stress can disrupt the hair growth cycle and push large numbers of follicles into the resting phase. Hair loss may start a few months after the stressful event. Chronic stress can also delay regrowth. At Hair Doctors in Melbourne, Sydney and Parramatta, we not only treat the physical symptoms with our Hair Growth Protocol but also guide you on holistic approaches to support your recovery, including nutrition and scalp health. Book your consultation today.
What treatments are available for telogen effluvium?
Treatment focuses on removing or managing the trigger, improving nutrition, and supporting the scalp and hair follicles. At Hair Doctors, we offer medical treatments such as growth factor treatment, exosome treatment, and scalp-health mesotherapy to enhance regrowth. Every treatment plan starts with a personalised consultation and a thorough hair and scalp analysis, so you get the most effective support for your specific condition.
Will all my hair grow back after telogen effluvium?
In most cases, yes. Once the cause is resolved, shedding decreases and new hair begins to grow. Full regrowth may take 6–12 months. However, recovery can vary based on age, health, and other conditions. At Hair Doctors, our experienced team monitors your progress and adjusts your hair growth treatment plan accordingly. We’re committed to helping you achieve a healthier, fuller head of hair through proven, evidence-based care.
Can diet and supplements help with telogen effluvium?
Yes. Iron, zinc, vitamin D, biotin, and protein are vital for hair growth. A lack of these can worsen or even trigger telogen effluvium. Improving your diet and using supplements (if recommended after blood testing) can support regrowth. At Hair Doctors, we assess your nutritional status as part of our in-depth consultation and offer evidence-based advice alongside medical treatments for best results. Book your hair loss consult today.
About The Author
Dr. Ossman Ashraf
In 2009, Dr Oz graduated from the University of Dundee, UK with a qualification in Men’s Health and Aesthetic Medicine. He then furthered his qualifications in medical education and is currently the Medical Advisor/Educator for MOSH, Australia’s leading online Men’s Health platform. He is accredited by the London Hair Restoration Academy and specialises in using the most up-to-date micro FUE extraction and DHI implantation techniques for transplant surgery.
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