Letter: Telogen Effluvium Secondary to Starvation Diet

A person experienced hair loss due to a crash diet and is now seeking advice on recovery, including dietary changes and potential treatments like biotin and pumpkin seed oil. They are concerned about nutrient deficiencies and considering a dermatologist visit for further guidance.

The user experienced significant hair loss after extended fasting, initially thought to be Telogen Effluvium, but later suspected male pattern baldness. They tried finasteride briefly but stopped due to concerns about side effects, and are unsure if the hair loss is due to Telogen Effluvium or another cause.

The user experienced hair thinning from chromium and alpha lipoic acid supplements, which stopped after discontinuing them. Someone mentioned this could be telogen effluvium, a temporary condition.

Chronic Telogen Effluvium can be managed by avoiding inflammatory foods, exercising, staying hydrated, and using supplements like krill oil, saw palmetto, or licorice root. Minoxidil is discouraged due to its cost and potential for worsening hair loss, while castor oil is recommended to strengthen hair roots and reduce shedding.

A user shared their experience with telogen effluvium triggered by a keratin treatment, leading to significant hair loss. They found improvement using aloe vera with rosemary, a protein and iron-rich diet, and patience.