What is the Origin of Telogen Effluvium?

The term is rooted in trichology, combining "telogen," the Greek term for the resting phase of the hair cycle, with "effluvium," meaning a flowing out or shedding. This nomenclature accurately describes the pathological event: an excessive exit of hair follicles from the active growth phase into the resting phase simultaneously. It points directly to a disruption in the normal hair cycle kinetics.

What is the Mechanism of Telogen Effluvium?

The underlying mechanism involves a sudden, synchronized entry of numerous anagen follicles into the telogen phase, typically triggered by high systemic levels of catabolic hormones like cortisol or sudden withdrawal of growth-promoting signals such as estrogen. This synchronized resting phase means that the subsequent synchronized shedding phase occurs weeks later when the follicles naturally attempt to re-enter anagen. While often transient, persistent TE suggests an ongoing underlying systemic imbalance impacting follicular cycling regulation.

Telogen Effluvium

Meaning

Telogen Effluvium (TE) is a common, non-scarring form of diffuse hair shedding resulting from a premature shift of a large proportion of growing hairs (anagen phase) into the resting phase (telogen). This acute event is frequently triggered by a significant systemic physiological stressor, which can include severe illness, surgery, major psychological trauma, or, importantly in our domain, acute hormonal fluctuations or the initiation/cessation of certain endocrine therapies. We observe this increased shedding approximately two to four months post-insult.

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What Is the Biological Reason for the Delay between a Lifestyle Change and New Hair Growth?

New hair growth after lifestyle changes requires months, as follicles undergo a complete, complex biological regeneration cycle.

∞ Dihydrotestosterone
∞ Anagen Phase
∞ Telogen Effluvium

HRTioAugust 27, 2025

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Can Lifestyle Factors like Diet and Stress Influence the Outcome of Hormonal Therapies on Hair?

Lifestyle factors like diet and stress profoundly modulate the cellular environment, directly influencing hair follicle responsiveness to hormonal therapies.

∞ Telogen Effluvium
∞ Endocrine System Support
∞ Androgen Receptor Sensitivity

HRTioAugust 26, 2025