Causes of Hair Loss After Gastric Sleeve Surgery and the 8 Best Hair Care Products

Even though you’re happy about losing weight after gastric sleeve surgery, you may notice your hair is shedding more than usual. Hair loss is a common occurrence after bariatric surgery, possibly due to weight loss or nutrient deficiencies. But regardless of the cause, it is possible to prevent hair loss and maintain an attractive appearance along with your slimmer physique. So how can you avoid hair loss after sleeve surgery? And what are the best supplements to help with that?

Causes of Hair Loss After Gastric Sleeve Surgery

It’s normal to lose 50–100 hairs per day, but after a gastric sleeve procedure, you might notice increased hair shedding. The possible causes include:

1. Telogen Effluvium

Beyond the surgery itself, telogen effluvium is a natural phenomenon that happens a few months after the body undergoes significant changes. The body redirects nutrients from the hair to vital organs.

This condition occurs when most of your hair enters the “telogen” or resting phase—opposite to the growth phase—causing the hair to stop growing and fall out after 3–4 months, sometimes sooner.

However, this type of hair loss doesn’t cause complete baldness or distinct bald patches. You’ll simply notice more hair shedding than usual.

2. Nutrient Deficiencies

Hair loss can follow any weight loss procedure—not just gastric sleeve surgery—because the digestive system may have reduced ability to absorb nutrients after such operations. This can lead to deficiencies in nutrients essential for hair health, which results in hair loss.

Examples of nutrients whose deficiency can lead to hair loss include:

• Iron

• Zinc

• Folic acid

• Protein

• Vitamin A and Vitamin C

When Does Hair Loss Stop After Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Telogen effluvium typically lasts 3–6 months. After that, hair follicles begin a new growth cycle, and your hair starts growing again. However, this may not be immediately noticeable since hair growth is slow—it may take months to return to its normal volume.

If hair loss worsens, consult your doctor. Hair shedding beyond 6 months post-surgery may be due to nutritional deficiencies, and you may need supplements as prescribed by your physician.

When Will My Hair Return to Normal After the Surgery?

Most people notice their hair returning to its normal volume and length about one year after gastric sleeve surgery. Shedding generally starts to subside around the 6-month mark.

How to stop hair loss after gastric sleeve?

It’s certainly possible to prevent hair loss after gastric sleeve surgery. First, you should strictly follow the nutrition plan recommended by your doctor. Additionally, consider the following tips:

1. Get Enough Protein

Ensure your main meals and snacks include protein—but avoid exceeding the amount recommended by your doctor, as that could interfere with your weight-loss goals. Common dietary protein sources include:

• Eggs

• Fish

• Poultry

• Meat

• Legumes

• Tofu

2. Take Oral Nutritional Supplements

Your doctor may prescribe supplements such as zinc, iron, vitamin A, vitamin C, or others to address nutrient deficiencies and promote hair regrowth.

3. Avoid Overusing Supplements

This doesn’t mean you should take supplements randomly. Overuse may lead to the opposite effect—increased hair loss—especially with excessive intake of vitamin E or selenium.

4. Care for Your Hair

Avoid putting extra stress on your hair, particularly during the first 6 months after surgery. For example, stay away from tight hairstyles that pull on your hair and avoid using harsh products that may damage it.

Best Hair Care Products After Gastric Sleeve Surgery

You may need supplements to correct nutrient deficiencies and protect your hair from shedding. Below is a list of some best vitamins for hair loss after bariatric surgery — but always consult your doctor to determine which ones suit you:

1. Priohair Supplement

Priohair is a nutritional supplement with natural ingredients that support hair growth and strengthen the roots. It contains L-cystine (which promotes keratin production, the main hair protein), millet extract, wheat germ oil, and yeast extract.

2. Pure Zinc

Pure Zinc capsules are among one of the best vitamins for hair loss after gastric sleeve, as they compensate for zinc deficiency which is a major factor in hair loss. This makes it a great option for preventing post-op hair shedding.

3. Biovitin High-Dose Biotin (10,000 mcg)

Biotin deficiency (vitamin B7) may also cause hair loss. Biovitin offers a high dose to restore hair growth, but consult your doctor to determine the correct dose and treatment duration.

4. Feroglobin

Feroglobin capsules provide many essential vitamins and minerals that support hair growth and prevent shedding. It’s considered one of the best post-surgery multivitamins, containing:

• Iron

• Folic acid

• Zinc

• Copper

• Vitamin B12

• Vitamin B6

• Iodine

5. Neurobion

Neurobion tablets contain a group of B vitamins, especially B12, which helps produce red blood cells and supports oxygen delivery to the scalp. It also promotes nerve health. Each tablet contains:

• Vitamin B1

• Vitamin B6

• Vitamin B12

6. Nestlé Beneprotein

Protein deficiency is a common cause of hair loss after gastric sleeve surgery. Nestlé Beneprotein (227g) is ideal, especially if it’s hard to meet protein needs through food. It contains whey protein and can be added easily to various meals and liquids.

7. Medavita Nutrisubstance Nourishing Hair Mask

Medavita Nutrisubstance Nourishing Mask for Dry Hair contains shea butter, which moisturizes and nourishes the hair. It also repairs the hair fibers, and provides long-lasting nourishment.

8. Medavita Trattante Anti-Hair Loss Shampoo (250 ml)

Medavita Trattante Anti-Hair Loss Shampoo is considered the best shampoo for thinning hair after bariatric surgery.

This shampoo strengthens hair and anchors it to the roots, making it softer and shinier. It contains extracts that enhance oxygenation and metabolism—both of which support hair growth.