Going through topical steroid withdrawal (TSW) is an incredibly challenging journey that affects the body in numerous ways. For many, hair loss recovery becomes a primary concern as they notice thinning or shedding during the healing process.
While seeing hair fall can be distressing, it is often a temporary reaction to the intense physiological stress your body is enduring. Understanding the connection between your skin's healing and your hair follicles is the first step toward regaining confidence.
At a glance
- Understand why systemic stress during TSW can lead to temporary hair thinning
- Adapt your hair routine, either avoiding hair care altogether or choosing only gentle products
- You may like to try our scalp-kind Scent Free Shampoo and Scent Free Conditioner
- Adopt protective, low-tension styling habits to prevent mechanical breakage
The connection between scalp inflammation and hair thinning
During TSW, the skin often enters a state of high inflammation as it attempts to recalibrate its natural functions. When this inflammation occurs on the scalp, it can disrupt the normal hair growth cycle, leading to a condition known as telogen effluvium.
This type of hair thinning after topical steroids is typically a "shuttling" of the hair follicles into a resting phase. Because your body is prioritising the repair of the skin barrier, hair growth - which is a non-essential function - temporarily takes a back seat.
Best ingredients to support your scalp during TSW recovery
To encourage regrowth, the focus must shift to creating an optimal environment for the hair follicles. Ingredients that soothe the skin and provide essential fatty acids are vital for maintaining scalp elasticity and health.
Look for anti-inflammatory botanical extracts such as Aloe Vera and Green Tea. These help to calm some of the discomfort often associated with TSW while providing a hit of hydration to dry, flaky patches on the scalp.
"When experiencing TSW, the skin can become highly reactive and easily overwhelmed. At this point, gentle, minimal care is essential - avoiding harsh foaming agents and ethyl alcohol, and choosing organic, irritant-free ingredients to help reduce further stress on the scalp while the body works to repair and renew."
— Charlotte Vøhtz, Founder of Green People
Discover a gentle shampoo and conditioner to support your scalp
You may choose to take a no shampoo approach to caring for your hair during TSW. Although it may take a few weeks for your hair to adapt to washing only with water, it will find its new balance and many people choose this route.
If you do wish to continue using a shampoo and conditioner, choosing the right hair care is critical during TSW, as the scalp is often hyper-reactive to synthetic fragrances and harsh foaming agents. Our Scent Free Shampoo is COSMOS Organic certified and dermatologically tested for ultra-sensitive skin.
This formula uses Green Tea and Aloe Vera to purify the hair without stripping the delicate scalp oils. It is entirely free from SLS and all fragrances, making it a gentle choice for those experiencing hair thinning after topical steroids.
Following up with a moisture-locking treatment is essential to prevent the hair from becoming brittle. The Scent Free Conditioner is a natural, fragrance-free solution designed for scalp comfort.
It is clinically proven to be kind to sensitive skin and helps to make hair easier to comb, which reduces the risk of tugging and breakage. By keeping the hair soft and manageable, you protect the fragile new growth as it emerges.
Scent Free Conditioner 200ml
Our gentlest conditioner for your silkiest hair and a sensitive scalp£18.50
Protective hairstyles for a sensitive TSW scalp
While you wait for regrowth, how you style your hair can make a significant difference in preserving your current hair density. Avoid heavy styling products, gels or hairsprays that can cake on the scalp and cause further irritation.
Opt for low-tension hairstyles like loose braids or low ponytails using silk scrunchies. This prevents mechanical stress on the hair follicles and allows the scalp to "breathe," which is essential for scalp health for hair regrowth TSW.
For more advice on managing delicate skin, you may find our guide on caring for delicate skin during topical steroid withdrawal helpful.
Medical Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. If you are concerned about hair loss or skin health during TSW, please consult a healthcare professional. You can find more information on TSW from the NHS or the British Skin Foundation.
We hope you have found a shampoo and conditioner to help you care for your hair during tsw recovery. If you need any more help or advice, our friendly UK customer care team are happy to help on 01403 740350 or on social @GreenPeopleUK.
MEET CHARLOTTE, FOUNDER OF GREEN PEOPLE
Charlotte Vøhtz, founder of Green People, has 25+ years of experience in the natural and organic beauty industry.
A recognised leader in the field of organic beauty, Charlotte helped inform the UK's first organic beauty standards and was voted the People's Choice in the 2023 list of Who's Who in Natural Beauty.
A published author, she wrote the organic beauty bible 'Naturally Gorgeous'. Previously, she qualified as a nurse and spent over 10 years working in pharmaceuticals.
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