The Shot & Your Strands: How Weight Loss Medications Can Affect Your Hair

If you have heard friends, coworkers, or even your stylist whispering about “the shot,” you are not alone. GLP-1 weight loss medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro are everywhere right now, and while the results on the scale can be exciting, many people are surprised by the changes they notice in their hair along the way.

At Tease Hair Boutique in Norwell MA, healthy hair always comes first. So let’s break down what these medications are, why they can affect your hair, and how to keep your strands feeling as strong and beautiful as possible during your journey.

What Are GLP-1s and Why Are People Using Them?

GLP-1 medications are part of a class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists. Originally developed to help manage type 2 diabetes, they are now commonly prescribed for weight loss as well.

These medications work by slowing digestion, regulating blood sugar, and reducing appetite. The result for many people is significant weight loss in a relatively short period of time. While this can be life-changing in many positive ways, rapid changes in the body can sometimes show up where you least expect it, including your hair.

Common Side Effects

We’ve all heard chatter about both the positive - and negative - effects weight loss drugs can have. And like most medications, GLP-1s can come with side effects. Some of the most commonly reported include nausea, fatigue, digestive changes, and appetite suppression. 

From a beauty perspective, people may also notice changes in skin texture, dryness, or shifts in nail strength. Or - as it relates to us here at Tease, one of the most talked-about side effects lately is hair shedding, which can feel especially alarming as your hair volume changes.

How GLP-1s Can Affect Your Hair

Hair changes linked to GLP-1 medications are usually not caused directly by the drug itself. Instead, they are most often tied to rapid weight loss and changes in nutrition. When the body experiences physical stress, it can shift hair follicles into a resting phase called telogen effluvium.

What this can look like:

• Increased shedding in the shower or on your brush

• A thinner ponytail or less volume overall

• Hair that feels weaker or more fragile

  
  

The good news is that this type of hair loss is typically temporary. Once weight stabilizes and the body adjusts, hair growth often resumes. Patience and proper care are key.

What You Can Do to Counteract Hair Changes

If you are on a GLP-1 medication and noticing changes in your hair, there are supportive steps you can take.

Focus on nutrition first. 

Hair loves protein, so make sure you are getting enough each day. Vitamins and minerals like iron, biotin, zinc, vitamin D, and B vitamins can also support healthy growth, but always check with your doctor before starting supplements. We also recommend Nutrafol (sold at Tease) for hair loss prevention!

Gentle hair care matters more than ever. 

Use strengthening, sulfate-free products and be mindful with heat styling. Loose hairstyles are your best friend during periods of shedding.

Hydration is also essential.

Drinking enough water supports scalp health, elasticity, and overall hair vitality.

Treatments and Services to Avoid at the Salon

When hair is shedding or feeling fragile, certain services may need to be paused or modified. Your Tease Hair Boutique stylist will be able to make a recommendation based on your unique hair loss situation. 

Hit pause on extensions. 

Extensions may not be the best option during active hair loss. Extensions rely on strong, healthy anchor hair, and if your hair is thinning, they can add stress and lead to breakage. Your stylist can help determine when your hair is ready again.

Lighten up on chemical treatments.

Chemical services like heavy lightening or high-lift color should be approached with extra care. Hair that is already under stress may not tolerate aggressive treatments as well.

Keep your locks loose.

Tight styles, heavy clip-ins, or anything that creates tension at the scalp should also be avoided until shedding slows and regrowth begins.

On the flip side, gentle scalp treatments, conditioning masks, and customized care plans can be incredibly supportive during this phase. A few of our favorites: 

Tease Favorites for Hair Strength & Scalp Support

Kerastase Genesis Fortifiant Hair Serum 

A daily strengthening serum designed for weakened hair prone to breakage. Helps fortify strands and reduce hair fall from brushing.

Kerastase Initialiste Scalp & Hair Serum 

A leave-in concentrate that works at the scalp to thicken fibers and improve resilience, giving strands a healthier, more vibrant look.

Kerastase Densifique Thinning Luxury Hair Products 

A curated set ideal if you’re noticing overall thinning. Boosts hair density and body with a routine of shampoo, conditioner, and treatment.

Kerastase Nutri-Supplement Scalp Serum 

A hydrating scalp serum rich in niacinamide that supports a healthy environment for hair growth and soothes dryness or irritation.

Kerastase Genesis Fortifying Luxury Hair Care Set

A hair-fortifying routine from the Genesis line that targets breakage and weak strands while nourishing the scalp.

 Tips for Using These Treatments

• Apply scalp serums to clean, towel-dried hair, focusing on the roots for best absorption.

• Combine strengthening serums with gentle shampoos and conditioners to support overall hair health.

• Consistency is key. Most treatments require several weeks of regular use before you notice visible improvement.

  
  

The Bottom Line

GLP-1 weight loss medications can bring powerful changes to the body, and sometimes your hair comes along for the ride. While shedding and thinning can feel scary, these changes are often temporary and manageable with the right approach.

Listening to your body, nourishing it properly, and working closely with your stylist can make all the difference. At Tease Hair Boutique, we are here to guide you through every phase, whether that means adjusting your color plan, focusing on hair health, or simply giving your strands a little extra love.

Beautiful hair is a journey, and we are always in it with you. If you’ve recently started GLP-1 and want a custom plan for caring for your hair to lessen effects of hair loss, speak to a Tease Hair Boutique Stylist by booking an appointment today!