Losing Weight, But Noticing More Hair Shedding?
GLP-1 medications have gained significant attention for their role in weight management. In Malaysia, medications such as Ozempic® & Wegovy® (semaglutide), and Mounjaro® (tirzepatide) are among the prescription treatments used by doctors to support eligible patients with diabetes management or weight management. As more people explore medically supervised weight-loss treatments, another concern is becoming increasingly relevant: hair thinning and increased hair shedding. But is it the medication itself, or could there be more to the story?
Why Can Hair Shedding Happen During Weight Loss?
Hair health is closely connected to the body’s overall nutritional and physiological condition. During significant or rapid weight loss, several changes may influence the normal hair growth cycle.
1. Rapid Weight Loss
Significant weight changes can place physiological stress on the body. This may trigger a condition known as telogen effluvium, where more hair follicles enter the resting phase, resulting in increased shedding, often several months after the triggering event.
2. Changes in Nutritional Intake
GLP-1 medications may reduce appetite and food intake. When overall nutritional intake becomes insufficient, the body may not receive adequate protein, vitamins and minerals needed to support normal hair growth.
3. Physiological and Emotional Stress
Weight management is not just a physical journey. Changes in eating habits, lifestyle and the body’s response to weight loss may also contribute to physiological stress, which can influence the hair growth cycle.
Importantly, hair shedding is not inevitable for everyone taking GLP-1 medication, and other underlying causes should also be considered.
How Can You Support Your Hair During Weight Loss?
Weight management should go beyond the number on the weighing scale. Maintaining overall nutritional health is equally important.
Here are a few considerations:
- Prioritise Protein: Ensure adequate protein intake to support normal tissue maintenance and hair structure.
- Maintain Nutritional Balance: Include a variety of nutrient-rich foods to meet your body’s nutritional requirements.
- Manage Stress: Prioritise sleep, recovery and stress management as part of your daily routine.
- Look After Your Hair: Maintain a consistent hair-care routine and avoid excessive heat or harsh treatments.
If hair shedding is persistent, excessive or accompanied by other symptoms, seek professional advice to identify the underlying cause.
Don’t Overlook Your Hair During Your Weight-Loss Journey
Weight management and hair health should not be treated as separate priorities.
At Eldon, we believe nutritional support should consider the bigger picture. This is why we developed Heirmony, bringing together three dimensions of support:
- Structural Support: Cynatine HNS® patented keratin to support hair structure.
- Stress Support: KSM-66® Ashwagandha as part of a stress-management approach.
- Nutritional Support: Biotin, zinc, silica and amla extract to complement everyday hair nutrition.
Because your weight-loss journey should also be a journey towards better overall wellness.
Disclaimer
This article is intended for general educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, nor does it imply that hair loss is directly caused by any of the medications mentioned. Hair shedding may have multiple contributing factors, and individual experiences may vary.
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised medical advice. Do not change the dosage, discontinue or stop any prescribed medication without first consulting your prescribing healthcare professional.
Reference:
1. Gupta, A. K., Teasell, E. M., Economopoulos, V., & Mirmirani, P. (2026). GLP-1 therapies and hair loss: A systematic review of current evidence and implications for counseling. Science progress, 109(2), 368504261444578. https://doi.org/10.1177/00368504261444578
2. Kang, D. H., Kwon, S. H., Sim, W. Y., & Lew, B. L. (2024). Telogen Effluvium Associated With Weight Loss: A Single Center Retrospective Study. Annals of dermatology, 36(6), 384–388. https://doi.org/10.5021/ad.24.043
3. Tang, H., Zhang, B., Lu, Y., Zhang, D., Liu, R., Lu, Y., Cotsarelis, G., Asch, D. A., & Chen, Y. (2026). Risk of hair loss associated with glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists in adults with type 2 diabetes: Target trial emulation. BMJ, 394, e100077. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj-2026-100077
