The Real Reason You Might Be Losing Hair on GLP-1 Medications
If you’ve started taking a GLP-1 medication for weight loss and noticed an increase in hair shedding, you’re not alone. But before you blame the medication itself, let’s clear something up: It’s not the GLP-1. It’s the weight loss.
Why Am I Losing Hair?
Hair shedding is a common side effect of rapid or significant weight loss, regardless of the method used. It’s something we see with crash diets, bariatric surgery, and even extreme calorie restriction. The body views sudden weight loss as a form of physical stress—and one of its first responses is to redirect energy away from “non-essential” functions like hair growth.
This type of shedding is called telogen effluvium, and it typically occurs 2–3 months after a major stressor, such as:
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Losing more than 10% of your body weight quickly
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Nutritional deficiencies
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Hormonal shifts
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Emotional stress
So while GLP-1s are the tool, it’s the rapid fat loss they create that’s triggering the hair loss.
What You Can Do to Support Hair Health
The good news? This kind of hair shedding is usually temporary. That said, there are several things you can do to minimize the impact and support healthy regrowth:
Use High-Quality Hair Products
Look for formulas that support the scalp and promote growth — think biotin, keratin, or scalp-stimulating ingredients like rosemary or peppermint oil.
Wash Your Hair (Yes, Really)
One myth is that washing your hair too often causes shedding. In reality, keeping your scalp clean and healthy is key. Use gentle, nourishing shampoos and avoid heavy buildup.
Take Your Supplements
Make sure you’re getting enough:
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Omega-3 fatty acids
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Vitamin D
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Vitamin B12
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Iron and zinc
Low levels of these nutrients can make shedding worse or slow regrowth.
Eat a Protein-Rich Diet
Hair is made of keratin, a type of protein. If you’re eating fewer calories overall, make sure your protein intake stays high to support follicle strength and recovery.
Consider In-Office Treatments
At Leawood Total Wellness, we offer advanced options to boost hair health and stimulate regrowth:
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Medical-grade hair serums
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PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) injections
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Exosome therapy — a next-generation regenerative treatment that supports cell repair and hair regeneration
When to See a Provider
If your hair shedding is significant, doesn’t improve within 3–6 months, or you have other symptoms like fatigue, brittle nails, or hormonal changes — it’s worth getting your labs checked. Hormonal imbalances or nutrient deficiencies could be at play.
At Leawood Total Wellness, we offer full lab panels and personalized support to help you stay healthy and confident throughout your weight loss journey — inside and out.
Book a Hair Health Consultation
Whether you’re already on a GLP-1 or just starting your weight loss journey, our team is here to support your results from every angle.
📞 Call or text us at 913-227-9150 to book your consultation.
