A scenario whereby the hair growth rhythm is altered and a larger percentage of hairs enter and remain in the telogen phase of the hair growth cycle. As a result, more hair falls out and sometimes in handfuls. Normally around 10% of hairs are in the telogen phase, but under telogen effluvium up to 40% of hairs can enter the telogen phase.

This is usually a temporary condition and that will reverse itself once the hair growth cycle is back in rhythm.

Some reasons for Telogen Effluvium

• Child birth
• Severe stress or emotional loss
• Rapid weight loss
• Surgery
• Medication
• Thyroid problems