If you’ve started a weight loss injection programme, have you noticed your hair feeling thinner or shedding more than usual? A few clients have mentioned it lately, says Rosemaree. It can feel worrying, especially when you’re doing something positive for your health and confidence.
These medications work by mimicking a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), which helps regulate appetite. Some people report hair loss as a side-effect, but right now there’s no direct clinical evidence proving the injections themselves cause it.
In most cases, this type of hair loss is temporary. Once your body adjusts, your hair usually bounces back beautifully.
Why your hair is shedding.
When you lose weight quickly (whatever the reason), your body goes through a period of stress and adjustment explains Rosemaree. It focuses on essential functions like hormone and energy levels, so things like hair growth can take a temporary back seat.
This can trigger something called telogen effluvium. That simply means more hairs than usual move into the resting or ‘shedding’ phase of the growth cycle. You might see extra strands in your brush or the shower for a few months.
It’s often not the injections themselves causing it, but the rapid changes in your body. Just like you might see after an illness, stress, trauma or pregnancy.
Check it out
Hair shedding linked to weight loss injections usually starts 2–4 months after beginning the treatment. It tends to show up as overall thinning rather than bald spots or patches.
If you’re unsure, always speak to your GP. They can check for other causes such as iron or thyroid issues, especially if the shedding is severe or lasts longer than six months.
If everything else checks out, it’s very likely your hair is simply reacting to the changes in your body and it will settle down.
Simple ways to help your hair bounce back
There’s plenty you can do to support your hair while this phase passes!
Feed it from the inside
Healthy hair starts with good nutrition. Because skinny jabs reduce the appetite it’s important to be mindful about what you’re eating. Make sure you’re getting enough protein (like lean meat, fish, legumes and eggs are good sources), as well as iron, zinc and B vitamins (especially biotin B7) which help fuel strong, healthy hair.
Strengthen from the outside
Use gentle, strengthening shampoos and conditioners designed to protect fragile strands.
Your scalp matter too as it’s the foundation for healthy growth. Scalp serums and stimulating tonics can help boost circulation and encourage growth.
In the salon, we offer nourishing scalp and repair treatments that can make a real difference. They help rebalance your scalp and give your hair extra support while it’s in recovery. Just ask us for advice!
Be kind to your hair
Avoid tight ponytails, harsh brushing and too much heat styling as these can lead to breakage. Let your hair air-dry more often where you can.
A trim can also help your hair look fuller while your new growth catches up.
What to expect over the next few months
Hair grows in cycles, so it may take a few months before you start seeing new regrowth. Once your body finds its new balance, shedding slows down and those little baby hairs begin to make a comeback.
Try not to stress too much (easier said than done, I know) as stress itself can make shedding worse. Take care of yourself and your hair will follow.
We’re here to help
If you’ve noticed more shedding than usual, book in for a chat with us. We’ll examine your hair and scalp, recommend the right strengthening products and suggest treatments to help speed up recovery.
Hair loss linked to weight loss injections is usually just a temporary phase – with the right support, you’ll be back to thicker, fuller hair that feels like you again.
