TLDR Some people lose a lot of hair after having COVID-19.
The review article by Szendzielorz and Bednarek discusses the observation of excessive hair loss as a complication after infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19. This hair loss is seen in both asymptomatic and symptomatic patients and is primarily telogen in nature. The issue affects both men and women, regardless of age and coexisting diseases. If left undiagnosed, this excessive hair loss can lead to hair thinning and even baldness.
2 citations,
July 2023 in “Life” COVID-19 can cause temporary hair loss, which is commonly reversible with treatment.
June 2024 in “Archives of dermatological research” Dietary supplements might help prevent post-COVID hair loss, but serum ferritin is not a reliable indicator.
7 citations,
May 2022 in “The Journal of Dermatology” Hair loss is a frequent long-term effect of COVID-19, and oral minoxidil is the most common effective treatment.
25 citations,
August 2021 in “Irish Journal of Medical Science (1971 -)” COVID-19 infection can significantly cause temporary hair loss.
3 citations,
August 2022 in “International Journal of Molecular Sciences” COVID-19 can cause hair loss, and treatments like PRP and stem cells might help.
4 citations,
January 2022 in “Indian Dermatology Online Journal” COVID-19 may cause temporary hair loss due to direct damage to hair follicles, but it usually gets better on its own.