Hairstylists and medical professionals are reporting a noticeable increase in clients experiencing temporary hair loss while using weight-loss medications like Ozempic and other GLP-1 drugs. This phenomenon, referred to as telogen effluvium, is attributed to the body’s stress response to rapid weight loss, which can lead to hair shedding and thinning. Experts caution that although the condition is temporary, it can be managed through proper nutrition and medical consultation.
According to Dr. Philip Rabito, an endocrinologist in New York City, telogen effluvium occurs when the body perceives a sudden weight loss as starvation. This triggers a physiological stress response that impacts the hair follicle, resulting in hair shedding. He explained that once the body stabilizes and weight loss slows, hair typically regrows. Rabito emphasized that the severity of the effect is linked to the magnitude and speed of weight loss, making it more pronounced in patients experiencing significant weight reduction.
Hairstylists Ashley DiMatteo and Briana Delvecchio have observed a rise in clients reporting hair loss as a side effect of weight-loss medications. They advise clients to consult medical professionals to check for vitamin deficiencies and adjust their hair care routines to support regrowth. DiMatteo and Delvecchio recommend reducing the use of heat-based styling tools, avoiding harsh treatments, and focusing on scalp health to mitigate further damage.
Novo Nordisk, the company responsible for Ozempic and Wegovy, confirmed that hair loss is an identified risk for semaglutide, a class of GLP-1 drugs. The company reports that in clinical trials of Wegovy, 2.5% of patients experienced hair loss compared to 1.0% of those on a placebo. Novo Nordisk noted that hair loss was more commonly reported in patients with greater weight loss, which indicates a potential correlation between the extent of weight reduction and the likelihood of experiencing hair thinning.
Medical professionals warn that while hair loss can be distressing, it is a temporary side effect of weight loss and not a permanent condition. Patients are encouraged to monitor their vitamin levels, maintain adequate nutrition, and consult with their healthcare provider to ensure their weight management plan is balanced and sustainable. Experts emphasize that the condition is a sign that the therapy is working, as the body is adjusting to the new weight, and with proper care, hair regrowth is expected.
Additionally, hairstylists like Becky Watt have reported that clients who lose weight more rapidly or experience repeated weight loss cycles are at a higher risk for hair loss. Watt advises her clients to be mindful of their diet and to seek professional guidance to maintain healthy hair and overall wellness. The situation highlights the importance of a holistic approach to weight management, combining pharmacological treatment with nutritional support and medical monitoring to ensure long-term health outcomes.