Maria - Zazú Elmhurst

What can we actually suggest? 💁🏻‍♀️

I’d think about it as FEED → STIMULATE → PROTECT → MONITOR.

1. FEED the follicle

This is probably the biggest conversation.

GLP-1 medications can dramatically decrease appetite, so some people simply aren’t getting enough protein, calories or micronutrients. The AAD specifically identifies inadequate protein, iron and other nutrients as potential contributors to hair loss.

2. STIMULATE the scalp

scalp-health protocol:

We would work to create the healthiest scalp environment possible while your body works through the shedding cycle.

3. PROTECT what is still present

Hair that’s actively shedding/thinning is often more fragile, so I’d recommend temporarily changing how you work with it.

Things like:

Less tension
Avoid consistently tight ponytails or buns
Gentle brushing
Detangler
Conditioner every wash
Leave-in protection
Lower heat when possible
Avoid aggressive extensions if the scalp/hair can’t tolerate the weight
Be careful with lightening services
Don’t repeatedly pull through fragile areas

4. Understanding the timeline

If the cause really is telogen effluvium and the trigger is corrected, the shedding can eventually settle and fullness can return. The AAD notes that hair commonly regains its normal fullness within roughly 6–9 months after the shedding trigger resolves. (Keep in mind individual cases vary).

And remember:

Hair grows slowly.

The American Academy of Dermatology notes that significant weight loss can trigger telogen effluvium, a temporary form of excessive shedding. Reduced calorie intake and lower protein or nutrient levels may also contribute.

🕰️ Timing matters: Telogen effluvium often appears a few months after the triggering event—not necessarily immediately.

My role, as your stylist, is to recognize the signs, protect the hair, educate and refer when medical support is needed. A few 🔑 questions will help guide us both on how to proceed in the best way!

Yes — this is becoming a very real salon conversation, and I think the most important thing I can do as a hairstylist is to separate what I can responsibly recommend in the salon from what needs to be handled by a physician or dermatologist.

You’re not imagining it. We are seeing more clients experiencing significant shedding while taking GLP-1 medications. It doesn’t necessarily mean the medication is permanently damaging your hair. A lot of the time, your body is responding to rapid weight loss, reduced food intake, or nutritional changes by temporarily shifting more hairs into the shedding phase.

Stay with me these next few weeks as I dive in a little deeper. I’ve done the research 🧐 now I want to share and help others…especially my clients. 💕

Tag the stylist that knows your entire lore 💇🏼‍♀️

I love us then & now!!! 🥰😂