Stress-Induced Hair Loss: Telogen Effluvium vs. Alopecia Areata

Stress triggers two distinct hair loss types:

• Telogen Effluvium (TE): Diffuse shedding 2–3 months after stressor (illness, surgery, emotional shock). Usually reversible; hair regrows in 6–12 months once trigger resolves.
• Alopecia Areata (AA): Autoimmune, patchy loss. Stress may precipitate flares. Can be chronic or permanent; requires dermatologist management (steroids, JAK inhibitors, immunotherapy).

If shedding is diffuse and recent, TE is likely. If patches appear, see a dermatologist promptly. Both benefit from stress reduction, but AA needs medical treatment.