Noticing more hair on your brush than usual after weight loss surgery?
Don’t panic—hair loss after bariatric surgery is common, temporary, and totally
manageable. Let’s break down why it happens, when it starts, and how you can prevent it (or at
least minimize it).
Why Does Hair Loss Happen After Bariatric Surgery?
This type of hair loss is usually called telogen effluvium—a temporary condition triggered by
physical stress, hormonal changes, and nutritional shifts.
The Main Causes:
Rapid weight loss
After surgery, your body shifts into survival mode, focusing nutrients on essential organs—not
hair follicles.
This can lead to temporary shedding.
Nutrient deficiencies
Lack of key nutrients—like protein, biotin, iron, and zinc—can weaken hair health.
After bariatric surgery, your body absorbs nutrients differently, increasing your risk of
deficiencies.
Surgical stress & hormonal shifts
Surgery itself is a major event. Combined with hormonal changes (especially after gastric bypass
or sleeve), this can push more hair follicles into a “resting” phase, which leads to shedding a few
months later.
When Does Bariatric Hair Loss Start?
Most patients notice hair loss around 3 months post-op, with peak shedding between 3–6
months.
The good news? It’s temporary—and in most cases, hair starts to regrow within 6–12 months,
especially with the right care and nutrition.
How to Prevent or Minimize Hair Loss
You can’t always stop it completely—but you can reduce the severity and speed up regrowth.
Here’s how:
1. Prioritize Protein
Your hair is made of keratin, a protein—so you need enough dietary protein to support growth.
Aim for 60–100 grams of protein per day, depending on your surgery type and body needs.
2. Take Your Vitamins Religiously
Choose a bariatric-specific multivitamin and supplement if needed with:
- Biotin: 5,000–10,000 mcg/day
- Zinc: 8–11 mg/day
- Iron: 45–60 mg/day (as advised by your care team)
- Collagen peptides: Optional, but may support skin and hair health
Always follow your surgeon or nutritionist’s recommendations before starting high-dose
supplements.
3. Stay Hydrated
Dehydration slows cell function, including hair regrowth. Drink water consistently throughout
the day.
4. Be Gentle With Your Hair
- Avoid tight hairstyles, rough brushing, or chemical treatments.
- Let your hair rest and breathe—heat styling and dyes can increase breakage during this
vulnerable phase.
5. Reduce Stress
High stress = more shedding.
Try breathing exercises, meditation, walking, or yoga to calm your body and promote healing.
Final Thoughts
Hair loss after bariatric surgery can feel discouraging—but it’s almost always temporary. With
proper protein intake, supplementation, and patience, your hair will bounce back.
Remember: You’re nourishing a healthier body from the inside out—and that includes your
hair, too.
💬 Are you experiencing hair loss after surgery? What’s helped you the most?
Share your story in the comments below—we’re here to support one another! 👇