A temporary, diffuse shedding when a stressor — illness, surgery, childbirth, rapid weight loss, low iron — pushes many follicles into the resting (telogen) phase at once. It usually starts 2-3 months after the trigger and recovers within 6-12 months. It is reversible, unlike pattern loss.
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Not medical advice. General education only; it does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a licensed professional. Consult a board-certified dermatologist before starting, stopping or changing any treatment.
⚠️ When to see a doctor — don’t self-treat
- Sudden patchy or circular bald spots
- Redness, scaling, pus, pain or itch (possible scarring alopecia — treat urgently)
- Broken hairs or rapid loss
- Loss with body-wide signs (weight loss, fatigue, cycle changes, acne, extra hair)
- Loss right after a new medication
- Any hair loss in a child