Hair loss due to a new coronavirus infection: Treatment approaches

Abstract

Stress has always been one of the triggers of hair loss. The global pandemic of COVID-19 infection has become such a factor for many people. Considering that the pathogenesis of hair loss in this infection has not been sufficiently studied yet, many authors suggest that, as the infection itself and the associated psychoemotional condition and the therapy can cause diffuse thinning of hair and androgenic alopecia. Several studies demonstrate a link between androgens involved in the pathogenesis of COVID-19 and the possible development of androgenic alopecia. Other researchers have observed many cases of telogen hair loss associated with this infection. In our practice, we also encounter diffuse hair thinning, presumably caused by COVID-19. Often, many patients do not consider necessity of consulting with doctor for hair loss. They look for medical help only when self-medication does not give the expected result. After these attempts to independently conduct therapy in some cases patients develop negative attitude towards certain drugs. In such cases, the doctor’s task is to adequately assess the patient’s condition and offer the optimal therapy in each specific case. Often, diffuse hair thinning of a telogen nature, which has arisen against the background of various infections, can be stopped without the help of drugs. The article describes the experience of applying care products with natural and innovative components in the fight against COVID-19-induced alopecia, which can be applied in the practice of a dermatologist.