Trichologist Addresses Six Common Hair-Health Questions in the Wake of Weight‑Loss Jabs

Hair-loss concerns have surged in the wake of weight-loss medicines such as Mounjaro, Ozempic, and Wegovy, with social media forums filling with reports of thinning tresses and shed hairs. While the drugs themselves are not a direct cause of hair loss, their appetite-suppressing effects can lead to malnutrition in some users, which in turn may compromise hair health. For many seeking answers, trichologists offer a clear framework: hair health begins from within, and a structured plan can help hair recover and thrive once more.

Diet is foundational to healthy hair. Experts say vitamins A, C, D, and E support energy production, oxygen delivery to follicles, and keratin formation—the protein hair is built from. Foods rich in keratin-friendly nutrients include eggs, oily fish, sweet potatoes, and leafy greens. Protein is essential, with guidance to include roughly a palm-sized portion with breakfast and lunch, drawing on options like eggs, salmon, cottage cheese, nuts, and pulses. Iron also plays a crucial role; ferritin, the iron-storage protein, is a common bottleneck in hair loss among women. Red meat remains a strong source, while beetroot and dried apricots can contribute iron as well.

Beyond diet, the public often asks about supplements. The guidance is cautious: supplements help only if hair loss stems from nutritional deficiency, and the best path is to start with blood tests to identify actual needs. A food-first approach is favored, with a daily protein supplement recommended for many women who do not meet their protein targets through food alone. Collagen, while popular, shows limited evidence for boosting hair growth, and, if cost is a consideration, investing in groceries tends to deliver broader benefits. As one trichologist notes, there’s likely little risk to taking a collagen supplement, but it should not replace nutrient-dense meals.

Grey hair is another common topic. There is no proven reversal product, and premature greying can be influenced by stress, certain medical conditions, and Vitamin B12 deficiency. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and managing stress may help delay grey appearance, but aging remains a natural process. Hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause can also affect hair quality and shedding, as oil production declines and the growth phase naturally shortens.

Many people worry about shedding versus breakage. Hair can look sparse not only from loss but from breakage due to brushing, heat styling, or chemical damage from overprocessing. A gentle detangling routine is essential: start at the ends and work upward. The choice of brush matters, as rough or harsh brushes can exacerbate damage. When styling at home, reducing heat exposure or pairing heat with protective products helps minimize harm. For ongoing protection, specialists recommend weekly deep-conditioning masks and bond-building products that fortify the hair’s internal bonds. Brands such as Elasticizer and Bond Builder pre-shampoo treatments are cited as helpful options to reduce breakage and improve resilience.

Perimenopausal and menopausal years often bring brittle or thinner hair due to hormonal shifts. Lower levels of estrogen and testosterone can reduce scalp oil production, which affects hair texture and overall quality. The guidance emphasizes not expecting rapid reversals but adopting a holistic approach: a balanced diet, stress management, and appropriate hair care practices can support better hair health during hormonal transitions.

When it comes to reversing hair loss, understanding the hair growth cycle is key. Hair follicles cycle through four phases: anagen (active growth), catagen (a brief transition), telogen (a resting phase), and exogen (shedding). The idea that hair loss can be halted overnight is a myth; new strands require time to grow. For those with persistent shedding, some salon-based options may offer benefits. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is one such modality, involving scalp injections of concentrated platelets to stimulate growth, typically over a three-month treatment window with costs ranging roughly from £200 to £500 per session depending on the clinic. Microneedling can be an alternative for those preferring non-medicated approaches, though caution is advised with home devices. Dermastamping—performed by medical professionals—uses fine needles to stimulate collagen production and improve product absorption, potentially aiding hair growth. Consumers are advised to avoid DIY dermarollers due to risks of breakage, nonsterile tools, and repeated trauma to the same areas.

Finally, washing frequency is not one-size-fits-all. Scalp cleansing is important to remove oils, skin cells, and environmental buildup, but hair-care schedules should reflect hair type and styling habits. The scalp should be cleaned at least every other day, while the frequency of washing hair itself depends on texture and styling: those with fine, straight, or wavy hair may prefer daily washing, whereas people with coarse, curly, or coiled hair may find alternate-day washing more suitable. Excessive heat styling on wash days can negate the benefits, so a sensible balance that protects the scalp while maintaining hair health is encouraged.

The overarching message from trichologists is practical and patient-centered: address potential nutritional gaps with medical guidance, be mindful of supplements, and adopt hair-care practices that minimize damage. For anyone experiencing persistent shedding, consulting a hair-health professional can help identify underlying causes and tailor a plan that supports the hair-growth cycle, scalp health, and overall well-being.