Last year, after struggling with persistent bloating, fatigue, and severe back pain, I decided it was time to seek medical help.
I had gained weight due to peri-menopause, reaching 11 stone—equivalent to what I weighed at full-term pregnancy 13 years ago.
Although I was still within a healthy weight range for my height of 5ft 6in, I felt far from my best. My blood test results confirmed my fears: I was pre-diabetic.
Determined to make a change, I embarked on a new health regime. I started taking a variety of supplements, increased my exercise routine, and adopted a more mindful approach to eating.
This included cooking from scratch whenever possible and slowing down to truly savor my meals.
Despite these efforts, the breakthrough came when I visited a private GP in London who recommended weekly injections of the weight-loss drug Ozempic. That’s when I began to see real improvements in my health—though not without a significant challenge.
I started my Ozempic journey in April last year with a low 0.25mg dose. This cautious approach helped me avoid common side effects like nausea and stomach cramps, allowing me to gradually increase my dose over time.
Eventually, after a few months, I reached the full 1mg dose. Since then, I have lost 22 pounds, my severe lower back pain has disappeared, my cholesterol has dropped from 6.6mmol/L to a healthier 5.5, and my bloodwork indicates that I am no longer pre-diabetic.
However, an unexpected side effect soon became apparent.
About six months ago, I noticed clumps of my long, blonde hair falling out in the shower. I was alarmed when I saw wisps of hair coming out with each touch. My once thick ponytail had thinned by around 30%, and my hairline around my temples became patchy.
While I appreciated my slimmer figure, I was deeply concerned about the prospect of going bald.
Initially, I didn’t connect the hair loss to Ozempic. But when I visited my hairdresser, Tom Smith, he revealed that many of his clients had reported similar issues after starting Ozempic.
Curious, I consulted Jane Martins, a senior consultant trichologist at Philip Kingsley. She explained that while there is no concrete evidence linking Ozempic to hair loss, some users have experienced increased hair shedding.
This is likely due to rapid weight loss, a condition known as telogen effluvium, which is typically temporary and related to changes in diet and nutritional deficiencies.
Solutions and Results
Specialists like Kelly Morrell from Scalp Confidential and cosmetic doctor Munir Somji also noted an increase in clients experiencing hair shedding due to weight-loss injections.
One recommended solution is the Calecim Advanced Hair Regrowth System, a stem cell serum therapy that can be used at home or administered in a clinic. I’ve been using it consistently for six months, and the results have been promising.
After just eight weeks, I noticed new baby hairs sprouting, and my ponytail has visibly thickened over the past three months.
Embracing the Change
It’s been challenging to accept that my weight loss came with the trade-off of hair loss. Nevertheless, my focus remains on my overall health rather than just my hair.
While I cherish my hair and am grateful for the effective treatment that has improved it, my priority is maintaining the health of my body.
— Olivia Falcon, founder of @theeditorslist
TDPel Media
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