Post-COVID-19 Alopecia Universalis: Autoimmune Hair Loss and the Challenge of Relapse Management

The user is experiencing sudden hair loss and is considering micro-needling, low-level light therapy, iron supplements, folihair, and Omega 3. They are hesitant to start finasteride, suspecting the hair loss might be due to telogen effluvium from a past COVID-19 infection.

Corticosterone inhibits GAS6, affecting hair follicle stem-cell activity, with potential implications for stress-related hair loss. Ashwagandha and Vitamin K are suggested for reducing cortisol, but their effectiveness is debated.

A user started using oral minoxidil (2.5 mg) and dutasteride (1 mg) for hair loss three months ago and noticed no side effects, possibly due to regular exercise. They speculate a possible link between COVID-19 and accelerated hair loss.

The user is experiencing severe hair loss after starting Minoxidil 5% and is seeking advice, as their hair loss worsened following a second COVID infection. Despite normal hormone and vitamin levels, the user is considering additional treatments like Ketoconazole shampoo, massages, and low-level laser therapy.

A 20-year-old male has been experiencing hair loss since age 15-16 and is using oral minoxidil, dutasteride, and ketoconazole shampoo, with previous use of oral finasteride and topical minoxidil. He has stabilized hair loss but seeks to rule out inflammatory or immune-related causes, considering a scalp biopsy, and is supplementing with vitamin D3, B12, and iron.

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.