Hair loss or thinning is an unexpected side effect of popular weight loss medications, particularly GLP-1 drugs, though it’s not widely known.
Some hair stylists have noted an uptick in clients expressing concerns about hair loss during their weight loss journeys.
Ashlie Di Matto, who owns Ashley Lauren Beauty Lounge in Westchester, New York, along with Briana Del Becchio, a color specialist at Di Matteo’s salon, shared their observations in an interview.
DiMatteo mentioned, “Clients are definitely increasing in terms of hair loss complaints,” noting the experiences range from slow thinning to more severe cases of complete hair loss.
Delvecchio added that a few clients have reported their hair becoming thinner and drier.
According to hairstylists using GLP-1 medications, there could be multiple reasons for these hair changes, such as stress from new medications, vitamin deficiencies, and rapid weight loss.
Becky Watt, a hairstylist from Ohio with over two decades of experience, remarked that she has witnessed clients losing hair while on weight loss medication.
“I’ve noticed my hair getting thinner and falling out more easily, especially during washing,” she explained. “I’m not sure what the cause is.”
Interestingly, she also mentioned having a client on similar medication who experienced no hair loss.
Medical Perspectives
Dr. Philip Rabito, an endocrinologist in New York City, explained that the hair loss could be a temporary stress response related to weight loss, affecting hair follicles.
He reassured that this reaction would stabilize eventually, with hair regrowth occurring once weight loss levels off over a few months.
“It’s a response to physical stress, and significant weight loss can mimic starvation,” he noted. “How fast you lose weight plays a role in the degree of hair loss.”
Rabito indicated that traditional bariatric surgery usually leads to a substantial weight loss of about 70% in six months, emphasizing that the body does not always recognize this as healthy weight loss.
“It’s a common experience, affecting many, though some more than others,” he added.
Those who undergo rapid weight loss are at a greater risk for hair loss, especially if there are underlying issues or deficiencies in micronutrients like iron, vitamin B12, or vitamin D.
Doctors warn that these deficiencies can worsen with weight loss, so working with healthcare professionals to manage these levels is critical.
“From my discussions with clients, those who maintain their appetite seem less likely to face hair loss,” Watt mentioned.
She elaborated, “Clients who are less inclined to eat are often the ones who experience the most hair loss. Though I’m no expert, it seems related to nutrient and protein deficiencies.”
Hair Loss Management Tips
DiMatteo and DelVecchio typically encourage clients to consult their doctors about checking vitamin levels.
“We also recommend adjusting their hair care routines,” DiMatteo added. “It’s about reducing hair removal as well.”
Some suggested practices include scalp treatments, minimizing heat exposure, brushing from the ends first, and avoiding going to bed with wet hair.
“It’s vital to ensure you consult a weight loss physician or endocrinologist to rule out deficiencies like iron or vitamin D before coming to us,” they advised.
“Then, we’ll focus on improving scalp health through gentle shampoos and conditioners,” DiMatteo mentioned.
“Scalp stimulation is crucial,” she emphasized. “And rinsing with cold water and minimizing aggressive treatments can help too.”
Rabito reminded that some hair loss is common and should not be a surprise. He often tells patients that this is a likely outcome and can be seen as a sign of success.
“They will experience hair loss,” he stated. “It’s common that it gets worse before it improves.”
“As long as nutrients are managed properly, hair will eventually grow back. If a patient’s weight stabilizes after a month or two, the body adjusts, leading to potential hair regrowth,” he continued.
Watt recommends hair vitamins to clients facing hair issues during weight loss, observing that diet plays a significant role.
They’ve also pointed out the benefits of using shampoos and conditioners designed to combat thinning, as well as products that reinforce hair structure.
DiMatteo and DelVecchio comfort clients dealing with hair loss, assuring them that regrowth takes time and does not typically require extensive treatments.
DelVecchio insisted that “hair loss is temporary. It’s a positive type of stress and totally worth it.”
Novo Nordisk, the maker of Ozempic and Wegovy, previously acknowledged that hair loss is a recognized risk associated with Semaglutide and is included in the product’s side effects.
“In Wegovy’s clinical trials, 2.5% of adults reported hair loss, compared to 1.0% of those on placebo,” a company spokesperson stated. They noted that hair loss occurrences are more frequent with significant weight loss (>20%), suggesting a correlation with how much weight a person loses.
“Patient safety remains a top consideration for Novo Nordisk,” the statement concluded. “We continuously monitor product safety and collaborate with authorities to ensure patients receive accurate information about hair loss risks.”
