Different kinds of stress may it be physical stress or psychological stress may cause hair to enter into a state of "telogen effluvium". This is a condition which may occur when the normal phase of growth is disrupted and the follicles of the scalp go into an inactive stage together. When this happens, there is an unexpected and abrupt hair loss.

There are instances that may cause telogen effluvium such as chemotherapy, high fevers, childbirth, major surgery, acute infections or severe illnesses. Dieting which may result to loss of iron and protein may also trigger telogen effluvium. Also, excessive ingestion of Vitamin A supplements may also result to such condition.

Telogen effluvium is not a permanent condition. Hair may recover when the resting follicles reactivate. Decrease of hair loss normally takes up to eight months. Restoration of the normal appearance of the scalp may take longer because hair grows at roughly at the rate of 1.25 cm per month.

Telogen effluvium is particularly noticeable during shampooing although shampoo does not set off or aggravate the condition. This condition is known to have an effect on dyed hair more that any grey or white hair.

Telogen effluvium may easily be confused with Female Pattern Hair Loss. Correct diagnosis is important as there are various treatment options available. When the General Practitioner or Dermatologist find out that one is suffering from telogen effluvium, the most effective means to manage this is by using hair replacement prosthesis or scalp make up. Other hair replacement tools may also be used to conceal patches of hair loss.