Telogen Effluvium: Causes, Hair Shedding & How to Restore Hair Growth in Scotland

A Trichologist’s Guide

If you’ve noticed sudden hair shedding, thinning hair, or excessive hair fall, you may be experiencing telogen effluvium—one of the most common types of hair loss seen in trichology clinics across Glasgow, and Edinburgh.

At Trichology Scotland, we regularly support clients dealing with stress-related hair loss, post-illness shedding, and hair loss after weight loss or medications.

The good news? In most cases, telogen effluvium is temporary and treatable.

What Is Telogen Effluvium?

Telogen effluvium is a condition where a large number of hair follicles enter the shedding phase (telogen phase) at the same time.

Normally, only around 10% of your hair is in this phase—but with telogen effluvium, this increases significantly, leading to noticeable hair loss.

What Happens During Telogen Effluvium?

Hair grows in cycles:

• Growth phase (anagen)
• Transition phase (catagen)
• Resting/shedding phase (telogen)

When the body experiences stress, it can shock the hair cycle, pushing more hairs into shedding.

This results in:

• Increased hair fall when brushing or washing
• Hair thinning across the scalp
• Reduced volume and density
• A widening parting

Common Causes of Telogen Effluvium

We see a wide range of triggers across Scotland, including:

Physical Stress

• Illness (including viral infections)
• Surgery
• Rapid weight loss (including GLP-1 medications)

Emotional Stress

• Anxiety
• Life events
• Chronic stress

Hormonal Changes

• Postpartum hair loss
• Menopause
• Thyroid imbalance

Nutritional Deficiencies

• Low iron
• Low protein intake
• Vitamin deficiencies

Vitamins and Minerals to Focus On

Nutritional support is key in recovering from hair shedding and telogen effluvium.

Iron

One of the most important nutrients for hair growth. Low levels are a major cause of hair loss in women across the UK.

Protein

Essential for building strong, healthy hair. Low intake can worsen shedding.

Zinc

Supports hair follicle repair and growth.

Vitamin D

Commonly low in Scotland, particularly during winter months.

B Vitamins (B12, Biotin)

Support scalp health and energy production.

How Long Does Telogen Effluvium Last?

Hair shedding typically begins:

• 6–12 weeks after a trigger

Recovery can take:

• 3–6 months (sometimes longer depending on cause)

Early intervention can significantly improve recovery time.

How to Treat Telogen Effluvium

At Trichology Scotland, treatment focuses on:

• Identifying the root cause
• Correcting nutritional deficiencies
• Supporting scalp health
• Restoring the hair growth cycle

When to See a Trichologist in Scotland

If you are experiencing:

• Sudden hair shedding
• Hair thinning across the scalp
• Hair loss after illness or weight loss

It’s important to seek professional advice.

We support clients across:

• Glasgow
• Edinburgh
• Aberdeen
• Dundee
• Central Scotland

Key Takeaways

• Telogen effluvium is one of the most common causes of hair shedding in Scotland
• It is usually temporary and reversible
• Nutrition plays a key role in recovery

• Early diagnosis improves outcomes