GLP-1’S and hair loss

GLP-1s don't directly "cause hair loss." What they do is shift nutrition, metabolism, and appetite — all things the hair growth cycle relies on.

If you've started a GLP-1 medication (Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, Zepbound) and noticed increased shedding a few months later, you're not alone — and you're not imagining it. Here's what's actually happening and what you can do about it.

Why This Happens

GLP-1 medications create a perfect storm of factors that can trigger temporary hair shedding:

- Reduced appetite → lower protein intake: When you're eating less overall, you're often eating less protein. Hair is made of keratin (a protein), and your body needs adequate protein to build strong hair. When intake drops, hair growth suffers.

- Rapid weight loss → telogen effluvium: Losing weight quickly is a physical stressor on your body. This can push a large number of hair follicles into the resting (telogen) phase all at once, leading to increased shedding 2-3 months later.

- Decreased nutrient absorption:GLP-1s slow gastric emptying, which can affect how well you absorb key nutrients like iron, zinc, and B-vitamins — all critical for healthy hair growth.

- Blood sugar changes → follicle stress: Even positive metabolic changes can temporarily stress hair follicles as your body adjusts to new blood sugar patterns and insulin sensitivity.

The important thing to understand: this isn't permanent damage. It's your hair growth cycle responding to significant metabolic and nutritional changes.

What to Do About It

The good news is that you can actively support your hair while your body adjusts to the medication.

Prioritize protein:

- Aim for 60-90g of protein daily, spread across meals

- Focus on high-quality sources: eggs, Greek yogurt, fish, chicken, legumes, protein shakes if needed

- Track it for a week to see where you actually are — most people are surprised by how little they're getting

Support with key nutrients:

- Add iron-rich foods (red meat, spinach, lentils, fortified cereals)

- Include zinc sources (pumpkin seeds, oysters, beef, chickpeas)

- Don't skip B-vitamins (whole grains, eggs, leafy greens, nutritional yeast)

- Consider having your levels tested — especially ferritin (iron storage)

Maintain scalp health:

- Keep your wash routine consistent (don't suddenly change frequency- I think 2-3x’s a week is balanced)

- Use gentle scalp massage or a scalp brush to stimulate circulation

- Don't skip conditioner — your hair needs moisture and protection

Address inflammation:

- Prioritize sleep (7-9 hours)

- Stay hydrated (this gets harder when appetite is suppressed, but it matters)

- Manage stress where you can

- Gentle movement supports circulation and overall health

Be strategic about styling:

- Avoid tight hairstyles that create tension on the scalp

- Minimize heat styling when possible ( typically keep heat under 350)

- Be gentle when detangling — use a wide-tooth comb, start at the ends

What to Expect: Timeline

Understanding the timeline helps you stay calm and consistent:

Months 1-3 on medication: You likely won't notice any hair changes yet. Your body is adjusting to the medication and metabolic shifts are beginning.

Months 3-6: This is when shedding typically starts if it's going to happen. Remember the 2-3 month delay between the trigger (starting medication, rapid weight loss) and visible shedding.

Months 6-9: If you've been supporting your nutrition and scalp health, shedding should start to slow down. You might notice small new growth (baby hairs) around your hairline.

Months 9-12+: Hair growth normalizes. New hair that started growing at month 6 is now a few inches long and filling in.

Most people see shedding peak around months 4-5 and then gradually improve. The key is staying consistent with nutritional support throughout this entire period — not just when you notice shedding.

When to Talk to Your Doctor

While GLP-1-related shedding is usually temporary and self-resolving with proper support, you should talk to your doctor if:

- Shedding is severe (coming out in clumps, visible bald patches)

- You're experiencing other symptoms like extreme fatigue, dizziness, or weakness

- Your hair loss continues beyond 6 months despite nutritional support

- You're struggling to meet basic protein and nutrient needs due to appetite suppression

- You have a history of hair loss conditions (alopecia, thyroid issues)

- You're concerned about nutrient deficiencies

Your doctor can order bloodwork to check ferritin, vitamin D, B12, zinc, and thyroid function. They can also adjust your medication dosage or timing if needed, or refer you to a registered dietitian who specializes in GLP-1 nutrition.

The Bottom Line

Hair shedding on GLP-1 medications is real, common, and usually temporary. It's not the medication directly attacking your hair follicles — it's your body responding to significant metabolic and nutritional changes.

The best thing you can do is be proactive about nutrition from day one. Don't wait until you see shedding to start prioritizing protein and nutrients. Support your body through the transition, be patient with the timeline, and trust that your hair growth cycle will normalize as your body adjusts.

This is a phase, not a permanent condition. With the right support, your hair will recover.