What is a GLP-1?

Ozempic, Mounjaro, Wegovy are just a few of the GLP-1 medications that starting making headlines in the last couple of years.

They were originally used to treat Type 2 diabetes when it was noticed that people on these drugs who had a significant amount of extra weight actually started to lose pounds.

As with all medications, GLP-1 medications can cause a range of side effects. One of which seems to be hair loss. Many people do not experience this but for those who do, this can be quite upsetting.     Studies have shown that there is a small chance of experiencing some hair loss if you take a weight loss drug. One study found that 3% of users on Wegovy experienced alopecia. Another noted that around 4.9% of Mounjaro users experienced some hair loss.

Thankfully the percentages are low and it isn’t yet clear if it is the medication causing the hair loss or the extreme weight loss.  Rapid weight loss causes a  phenomenon known as telogen effluvium. **Telogen effluvium is a temporary condition that occurs when a higher-than-normal number of hair follicles enter the resting (telogen) phase, leading to increased hair loss**                                                                                                                                                                                      Is it the weight loss caused by these medications the culprit or is it the GLP-1 medications themselves? Since these GLP-1 meds are new among the masses, it seems clear that more studies are needed.

What Can You Do to Prevent Hair Loss if You Are Taking These Medications?

Let’s minimize the potential for hair loss during weight loss. Take your medication as prescribed and if you do experience any hair loss, bring this to the attention of your healthcare provider.

Often when on these medications (or any weight loss program) some people forget to eat foods that are nutritionally dense. Lack of nutrients can also cause our hair to go into the telogen effluvium phase, which we know causes hair loss.

Stick to a healthy diet while on the medication. Avoid processed foods and foods with little nutritional value. Seek out foods with natural ingredients and be sure to eat your fruits and vegetables. This will ensure that you can get a good range of vitamins and minerals and encourage natural hair growth (whether you are on these medications or not) and may assist in helping to combat any hair loss that could occur while taking the medication.

Will My Hair Grow Back After Taking GLP-1 Medications?

The good news about this type of hair loss is that it is temporary. People tend to find that once their weight begins to stabilize, their body becomes used to it and things go back to normal. It may take a 6-9 months to notice a difference. The new hairs need time to grow.

We’ll keep an eye on further studies that go into this topic.

If you are on a GLP-1 medication and see excessive hair shedding contact the team at Hair Solutions of Long Island for a complimentary, private, in-person hair and scalp analysis. We have been helping people with hair loss and thinning hair for over 30 years. Call us and come see!

Did you know that alopecia it is an autoimmune disease?

Alopecia Areata attacks the healthy hair follicles on the head resulting in patches of hair falling out. They are usually round in shape and about the size of a quarter. Some have more severe hair loss while others lose only a small.  For many, it creates a host of concerns especially when it comes to self-awareness and image.

More than 6.8 million people have been diagnosed with some form of alopecia in the United States, and as many as 147 million people globally experience some form of this condition.

WHAT CAUSES IT TO HAPPEN?

A reason has not yet been determined.  Researchers are studying to understand what triggers the body’s immune system to respond in this way. Many studies have indicated that STRESS plays a significant role in the development and early onset of the condition. Stress (which can affect all people of all ages) can be a catalyst to this condition as well as hair loss in general. In these difficult times most of us are feeling extremely high levels of stress. Suggested ways to help combat stress: yoga, meditation, or some simple breathing exercises can help. There is also a possibility that there is a genetic susceptibility.

WHAT CAN YOU DO ABOUT IT?

People with mild symptoms (like small coin-sized area(s) of hair loss); the condition may correct itself within a few months.
Sometimes corticosteroids can help because they are anti-inflammatory drugs that can help to suppress the immune system. They help to possibly reduce the frequency of flare ups or the severity of alopecia and is often given as a topical ointment, but it can also be in the form of an oral pill or injection.

JOIN IN

The National Alopecia Areata Foundation would love you to get out there and educate the public on what this condition is and how it impacts the quality of life for many men and women. The organization offers a variety of ideas like hosting an awareness day, craft fair, or other family-friendly events. Of course that needs to be adjusted during these times of social distancing. Learn more about Alopecia Areata by visiting the NAAF.org website. You can help be a part of changing the image and the lives of those who are living with this condition.

Contact our team at Hair Solutions of Long Island a complimentary, private consultation to learn about the options we have available for Alopecia Areata.

Summer Hair Tips for 2025!

Summertime and while the livin’ may be easy, the heat is on! Isn’t it challenging to keep your hair looking fabulous in this weather? Your hair is exposed to all kinds of damaging conditions throughout the summer season.

Here’s What Can Help

Less Heat!

This is important! Reduce your amount of heat styling! Blow dryers, flat irons, and curling irons, in addition to sun exposure, create high levels of damage or the potential for it. Try some leave-in products that allow you to wash and wear. Many of them are also good for your hair!

Deep Condition!

Look for products that address the areas of concern specific to your hair. Deep conditioning is a very effective way to heal your hair. It restores the overall balance and boosts its shine and beauty.

Use Hair Products with UV Protection!

IMPORTANT! Do you apply sunscreen to your skin? Of course you do! You probably do not go outside without it. Most people don’t think about UV damage to their hair. These days, most face makeup has an SPF factor in it. Did you know that you can find many fantastic and highly effective hair care products that include UV protection in them also? Using these products on your hair can help to protect your hair and your scalp from UV rays, one of the highest risks to your hair and scalp’s health. Have you ever had a sunburn on your scalp? Not only does it hurt but when it starts to peel, it flakes and leaves dry skin on your hair. Look for a leave-in conditioner with UV protection and thermal protectants in it. Hats are also your BFF and so cute!!

Wide Comb Instead of Brush!

Use a wide-toothed comb and comb gently from the bottom up. Skipping the brush may be the best way to reduce damage. Remember, at this point, your hair is probably already damaged even if you have taken good care of it. Using a brush puts more stress on your hair and causes further damage. A comb reduces that risk significantly.

Rinse and Wash!

After coming out of the water, whether it’s a pool or the ocean, make sure to rinse your hair. Chlorine and salt water can strip your hair of its natural oils, leaving it feeling dry and like straw. After a cooling dip or all-out swim, rinse your hair with cool water. After that rinse, wash your hair with a mild sulfate-free shampoo, condition, and rinse well. Now it’s time to use your UV protection LEAVE-IN conditioning spray again.

Maintain Healthy Hair All Summer

You can significantly improve the way your hair looks and feels by following those steps. The key is to focus on simple things that can reduce the intensity of damage to your hair. With a little bit of extra effort, and maybe a visit to your hair care professional, you can definitely see improvement all summer long and see less overall damage to your hair in the short and long term.

Ask us about our healing scalp and hair treatments.

Contact the hair specialists at Hair Solutions of Long Island to learn more!

If you’re searching for scalp inflammation treatment in Long Island, you’re likely dealing with itching, soreness, or painful bumps on your scalp. These symptoms are often early signs of inflammation—and if ignored, they can lead to infection, scarring, or even permanent hair loss. The good news? When caught early, inflammation is treatable. At Hair Solutions of Long Island, we’re here to help you heal your scalp and protect your hair.

Common Signs of Scalp Folliculitis

Scalp Pain or Tenderness

Do you feel discomfort when brushing or touching your scalp? This may indicate inflammation of the nerve endings. Left untreated, the area may become increasingly itchy, sore, or even develop a burning sensation. You might feel the urge to scratch, but resist the temptation—scratching can lead to further irritation and infection, making things worse.

Red or White Bumps

Ask a trusted friend, loved one, or your stylist to examine any area of concern. If they notice red bumps or white-headed pimples, especially clustered around the hair follicles, this may be a telltale sign of folliculitis. These bumps not only impact comfort but can also interfere with healthy hair growth.

Why You Should Act Quickly

If you notice these signs, don’t wait—early intervention is key. When scalp folliculitis is caught early—when the skin is just tender or only a few bumps appear—it’s usually easy to treat. But delaying treatment increases the risk of scarring and permanent follicle damage, which can lead to lasting hair loss.

Take the First Step Toward a Healthier Scalp

At Hair Solutions of Long Island, our hair and scalp professionals offer complimentary scalp analyses to determine the root cause of your discomfort. We also provide trichology-based scalp treatments tailored to your unique needs. Our goal is to restore your scalp health and support long-term hair growth.

While you’re here, we highly recommend trying a ROST (Residual On Scalp Treatment)—a relaxing and restorative service designed to deeply cleanse and soothe the scalp.

Book Your Free, Private Consultation

Your scalp health matters. Don’t wait for the symptoms to worsen. Visit Hair Solutions of Long Island for your free consultation and discover customized solutions that bring relief, restore comfort, and help prevent hair loss.

Stay connected and get more scalp & hair care tips by visiting us on Facebook: Hair Solutions of Long Island Facebook Page

It’s not just Rover or Kitty who shed—we do too! When the seasons change, so does our hair. If you’ve noticed more strands in your brush or the shower drain, don’t panic! Seasonal hair shedding is real, and as we transition into Spring, it’s completely normal to experience temporary hair loss.

Why Do We Shed More in Spring?

On average, we lose 50 to 100 strands of hair every day. However, when the weather shifts, that number can increase due to various environmental and physiological factors. Some key reasons include:

• Seasonal changes in temperature, humidity, and sunlight exposure affect hair growth cycles.
• Studies suggest that melatonin production drops in Spring. Since melatonin helps regulate hair growth, lower levels can contribute to increased shedding.
• Our hair follicles enter a natural resting phase during certain times of the year, leading to more noticeable hair fall.

What Is Seasonal Hair Shedding?

Seasonal hair shedding happens when more follicles than usual enter a temporary resting phase (telogen phase), causing increased shedding. This is most noticeable in Spring due to longer daylight hours and increased exposure to sunlight. The good news? It’s temporary! Your hair should naturally regrow within a few months.

How to Support Healthy Hair Growth During Seasonal Shedding

Just like our gardens need tending to in the Spring, so does our hair and scalp! Here are some key ways to maintain healthy hair during this time:

• Nourish your scalp: Product buildup and excess oil can clog hair follicles. Scalp detox treatments, such as our Trichology treatments, can cleanse and stimulate your follicles, encouraging healthy growth.
• Hydrate & nourish: Use deep-conditioning treatments and hair growth-boosting serums to support strong, resilient strands.
• Protect your hair: Avoid excessive heat styling and harsh chemical treatments that can weaken hair and lead to more shedding.

When to See a Hair Specialist

While seasonal shedding is normal, there are signs that indicate it’s time to seek professional help:

• If you notice patchy hair loss or thinning at the crown or temples
• If hair shedding persists beyond a few months
• If you’re experiencing excessive scalp dryness, irritation, or discomfort

At Hair Solutions of Long Island, we offer free, private consultations to assess your hair health and recommend solutions tailored to your needs. Whether you need scalp treatments, hair restoration solutions, or simply expert advice, we’re here to help!

Ask us about our Trichology treatments to help you cleanse and rejuvenate your scalp. Schedule your appointment today and treat yourself to a ROST (Residual On Scalp Treatment) for a healthier scalp and hair!

Connect with us on Facebook for updates, tips, and more: Hair Solutions of Long Island Facebook

FEBRUARY IS THE MONTH TO LOVE YOUR HAIR!!

Forget traditional love—it’s time for self-love! And what better way to start than by giving your hair the attention it deserves? Healthy, beautiful hair isn’t just about looks; it’s about confidence and care. Here’s how you can show your hair some love this February.

INVEST IN A PROFESSIONAL HAIRCUT

Ever walked out of a salon feeling fabulous, only to struggle recreating the look at home? The key is getting a cut that fits your lifestyle! Bring pictures of styles that appeal to you and communicate with your stylist about what works best for your daily routine. Do you prefer wash-and-go styles, or are you comfortable using styling tools? Sharing these details helps your stylist craft a look that not only suits you but is easy to maintain.

TAKE CARE OF YOUR HAIR & SCALP

We all know that maintaining healthy hair is important, but what about your scalp? A healthy scalp is the foundation for strong, beautiful hair! Over-washing, excessive heat, and using the wrong products can strip your hair of its natural oils, leading to breakage and hair loss. Choosing the right products can make all the difference.

Did you know that a healthy scalp can boost hair growth by up to 30%? At Hair Solutions of Long Island, we offer a complimentary scalp analysis and consultation to help you understand your scalp’s unique needs. We’ll also discuss the advantages of our trichology treatments and how they can promote healthier, fuller-looking hair.

USE CUSTOMIZED HAIR PRODUCTS

No two heads of hair are the same! Whether your hair is straight, wavy, curly, or thinning, the right products can make a world of difference. Our trichology program is designed to help manage, nourish, and strengthen your hair with formulas tailored to your specific needs. The right shampoo, conditioner, and treatments can improve scalp health and make your hair appear fuller and thicker.

A skilled stylist plays a crucial role in product selection, ensuring you get the best results for your hair type. Not sure what works best for you? Let our specialists guide you toward the perfect hair care routine!

DON’T HESITATE TO EXPERIMENT

We’ve all felt stuck with our hair from time to time. Don’t be afraid to mix things up! A new color, fresh highlights, or a bold cut can give you an entirely new look. Trying something different can be incredibly liberating—so why not make this the month you step outside your comfort zone?

BE POSITIVE & BREATHE

Great hair days start with great habits! Whether it’s taking time to pamper your hair or simply stepping back from stress, self-care is essential. Breathe, relax, and embrace the process of keeping your hair healthy and beautiful.

Your hair is an investment, so protect it with a custom treatment plan and LOVE YOUR HAIR!

READY TO GIVE YOUR HAIR THE LOVE IT DESERVES?

Your best hair days start with expert care! Schedule your complimentary scalp analysis at Hair Solutions of Long Island today and discover a treatment plan designed just for you.

We hear it all the time in January: “New Year, New You!” It’s the rallying cry of the weight-loss industry, a reminder that many people use the new year as an opportunity for change. While improving your diet and lifestyle is commendable, one surprising side effect of rapid weight loss can be hair loss. Here’s why it happens and how you can prevent it while reaching your goals.

Low-Calorie Diets and Hair Loss: What’s the Connection?

Very low-calorie diets—typically under 1,000 calories per day—can lead to quick weight loss, but they’re also hard on your body. When your body lacks sufficient calories, hair follicles may not receive enough energy to support hair growth, resulting in thinning or brittle hair. This condition is often temporary but can be frustrating.

Another contributor is telogen effluvium, a form of hair loss caused by stress or abrupt body changes:

• Dieting can trigger this condition.
• You might notice hair loss three to four months after starting a weight-loss regimen.
• Hair usually grows back within three to six months as your body adjusts.

How to Prevent Hair Thinning During Weight Loss

Avoid extreme measures and focus on a balanced approach to dieting:

• Choose sustainable changes: Gradual weight loss is kinder to your body and less likely to stress your hair follicles.
• Focus on macronutrients: Ensure your meals include proteins, healthy fats, and carbohydrates to support overall health and hair strength.
• Add supplements: A daily multivitamin with minerals can help make up for any nutrient gaps caused by calorie reduction.
• Don’t skimp on protein: Hair is made of keratin, a protein. Include foods like lean meats, eggs, and beans in your diet.
• Include biotin-rich foods: Biotin is vital for hair health. Add biotin-rich foods like salmon and nuts to your meals.
• Be mindful of zinc: Zinc deficiencies can lead to brittle hair. Foods like pumpkin seeds, spinach, and whole grains can help.

FAQ: Hair Loss and Weight Loss

Why does hair loss occur during weight loss?

Hair loss during weight loss is often caused by nutrient deficiencies, stress, or very low-calorie diets, which can lead to a condition called telogen effluvium. This temporarily pushes hair follicles into a resting phase, causing shedding.

How can I prevent hair loss while losing weight?

Prevent hair loss by focusing on a balanced diet, including adequate protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. Avoid extreme calorie restrictions and prioritize gradual weight loss for better overall health and hair retention.

What nutrients are essential for healthy hair?

Key nutrients for hair health include protein, biotin, zinc, and vitamins like A, C, D, and E. Incorporate foods such as eggs, nuts, salmon, spinach, and whole grains into your diet.

How long does it take for hair to grow back after weight loss?

Hair typically regrows within 3–6 months after your body adjusts to changes. If hair loss persists, consult a specialist for personalized treatment options.

Can supplements help prevent hair loss during weight loss?

Yes, taking a multivitamin with essential minerals can help address nutrient deficiencies and support hair health during weight loss. However, supplements should complement a healthy diet, not replace it.

What treatments are available for hair loss?

Non-surgical options such as laser hair therapy, topical treatments, or dietary adjustments can stimulate hair regrowth. Hair specialists can provide customized solutions based on your needs.

Where can I find hair loss support in Long Island, New York?

At Hair Solutions of Long Island, we offer complimentary hair and scalp analyses and personalized treatments to help restore your hair and confidence.

Experiencing Hair Loss? We Can Help

If you’ve noticed hair shedding or thinning while losing weight, you’re not alone. At Hair Solutions of Long Island, we specialize in helping clients restore their hair and confidence. With over 20 years of experience in non-surgical hair restoration, we provide personalized treatments tailored to your needs, including laser hair therapy to stimulate growth. We offer complimentary hair and scalp analyses at our locations in Nassau and Suffolk, helping you understand the root cause of your hair loss and the best path forward.

Don’t let hair loss derail your journey to a healthier you. Contact Hair Solutions today to learn how we can support you in achieving your goals while keeping your hair healthy and beautiful.

Achieve your “New Year, New You” goals—without compromising your hair!

Did you know that that the change of seasons can affect your hair? Your hair texture can actually change as the temperature gets cooler. Let’s talk about keeping it nurtured, protected and healthy.

Get a Deep Conditioning Scalp and Hair Treatment

Sadly the summer sun has set and possibly left you with chlorine, salt, and sun damaged dry hair. The best way to overcome this damage is with a scalp and hair trichology treatment. This type of treatment can help restore the health of your hair. Book it now before it gets super cold outside causing more dryness to your scalp and hair.

Yes! Improve Your Diet

There is no better time than the fall and winter season to adjust your diet and get your hair looking good. Hormones change during this time of the year. Studies have found that the human body experiences elevated levels of the Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) in the winter. As a result, your body is in need of added nutrition to boost the function of cells. Your hair can benefit from this as well. Here are a few tips for improving your hair through your diet.

• Start with removing processed foods from your diet. It’s the single most important step you can take to improving your overall health and that includes your hair.
• Give it a huge dose of vitamins and minerals on a daily basis. It’s more difficult to absorb vitamin D when the days are shorter and a lack of vitamin D can impact the body’s mood, energy levels and immune system. The winter can also cause our bodies to release less serotonin, the feel-good brain chemical that dictates our mood. For this to occur, you need to focus on eating more variety in the fruits and vegetables you consume.
• Focus on lean proteins. These can help your hair to grow and develop strength.

You can also boost your hair’s overall condition by investing in a daily high-quality vitamin supplement. Your diet really is at the heart of the health of your hair.

Some More Tips for Fall and Winter Hair Care

There are a few more things to keep in mind as we head into this season.

• Use shampoos that are SLS-free (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate) products. Most shampoos are very harsh filled with fragrance, and heavy detergents. Those detergents are added just to create a foamy lather. Those harsh chemicals strip away the luster in your hair. Shampoos free of SLS are mild and free of harsh surfactants. Surfactants are a primary component of cleaning detergents.
• Keeping your hair trimmed every four weeks or so even if you do not want to remove much length. It helps maintain the ends during the harsh weather.
• A suggestion to wear a silk scarf rather than a hat. This helps protect your hair.
• Use a humidifier in your bedroom to help with hair breakage. This also aids in your breathing and keeps your skin from drying out too!
• Talk to your stylist about any specific steps you need to take based on the condition of your hair.
• You may find you love the way your hair looks this season because that is one advantage of less humidity.

Contact the hair specialists at Hair Solutions of Long Island to learn more.

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness month. Let’s take a moment to pause and think of the women we love who have dealt with or dealing with this diagnosis. To those we lost and to the survivors – we keep you near and dear.

Should you get that diagnosis, one of the many thoughts and questions that go through your head will be about losing your hair. So let’s discuss.

We know that one of the potential side effects of some breast cancer treatments can cause hair loss or thinning. Did you know that it is not just limited to chemotherapy?

Other treatments that can cause you to lose hair include certain types of:

hormonal therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, radiation therapy

In most cases, hair grows back after treatment is finished. But some people may experience longer term or permanent hair loss or thinning. Not all treatments cause hair loss so ask your doctor(s) if the treatments you will be receiving are likely to cause it, to what degree, and when it might occur.

Why does chemotherapy cause hair loss?

The reason chemotherapy can cause hair loss is that it targets all rapidly dividing cells in our body and that includes healthy cells as well as the cancer cells. The cell structures in the skin that hair grows from are called hair follicles. As chemotherapy does its job against cancer cells, it also can damage healthy hair follicle cells.

When does hair grow back after chemotherapy?

How long it takes for the hair on your head to grow back after chemotherapy (and other body hair, such as pubic hair, eyelashes, and eyebrows) varies a lot from person to person. Here’s a typical timetable for hair regrowth on the head:

• 3–4 weeks after chemotherapy ends: soft fuzz
• 1 month to 6 weeks after: real hair starts to grow
• 2–3 months after: about an inch of hair
• 3–6 months: about 2–3 inches of hair
• 12 months: 4–6 inches of hair

The hair on your head may come back a different color, texture, or volume. If you were coloring or chemically treating your hair before you started chemotherapy, you might be surprised (& pleased) to see what your natural hair looks like when it grows back.

In many cases, hair eventually returns to the way it was before treatment. Some people have incomplete hair regrowth. And sometimes permanent baldness and loss of eyebrows and eyelashes can occur.

To assist with your treatment needs, HSLI is pleased to work with Recover with Confidence in providing comfortable, personalized wigs and hair prostheses to women facing medical hair loss. We’re very familiar with the unique situation of expecting complete hair loss and can be there for you to help with your hair needs.  We are well aware of the details that can make or break the experience of wearing a hairpiece. If you or someone you know has an upcoming medical treatment that will cause hair loss, we can help ease the transition into and out of a personalized hair solution.

Recover with Confidence is a national program that partners with hair restoration salons because we are equipped to understand women’s hair loss. The program gives salons like ours the tools we need to be an important resource for women as they lose their hair as a result of chemotherapy by providing personalized wigs and hair prostheses.

HSLI promises:

• To help guide her through the process. When the time comes, we will even clipper her hair if she’d like. We will have her wig (cranial prosthetic) ready and customized for a perfect fit.
• To provide a product with materials specifically created for women whose skin is sensitive due to the treatment. All materials are soft, natural, breathable and very comfortable.
• Our technicians are all licensed cosmetologists who are also trained wig fitters, and stylists.
• To assist with the proper receipt for you to submit to your insurance company
• To provide a warm, caring and private environment. Our goal is to provide a relaxing and positive experience.

Please call us for a complimentary consultation: Hair Solutions of Long Island

Did you know that split ends tend to get worse in the heat due to humidity, pony tails, clips, chlorine, salt water, etc.? You might want to start with a fresh cut or trim.

Sweat, sun, and sunscreens will have you washing your hair more often. When you do, make sure to use a good quality shampoo and conditioner that moisturizes your hair more than usual. Your stylist can recommend something that works for your hair type.

After swimming make sure to rinse each time you exit the pool. It’ll help maintain your hair. If you swim regularly, whether in the pool or the beach, shop for a shampoo and conditioner that’s designed to help swimmers maintain the condition of their hair.

How Can I Protect My Hair When It’s Hot Outside?

We already know that heat styling can damage our hair, but the heat and UV rays from the sun can be especially damaging. It roughs up the hair shaft (also known as the cuticle). Frizzy hair is the result of that and you probably already know that’s when your hair can become unmanageable and dry.

We suggest wearing a wide brimmed hat. Some hats include protection against ultraviolet rays too! If you’re not the hat-wearing type then look for hair products that provide sun protection.

After swimming or sunbathing, it’s tempting to wash your hair and style it, so it looks good again. Using heat styling tools can add more damage to whatever the sun has already done so, if you can,  try gently towel drying and letting it dry au naturel.

Hair Masks Are Ideal

There are tons of recipes online for a DIY mask, or go easy on yourself and buy something that works for you. Ask your stylist for advice on which hair mask would work best with your hair type. Once a week is all you need. If you spend a lot of time in the sun or swim a lot, you might want to increase this to two or three times a week.

Enjoy the summer, the heat is on! To learn more, contact the team at Hair Solutions of Long Island.