New Year, New You: Resolutions, Weight Loss, and How It Affects Your Hair

As we ring in a new year, many of us are diving headfirst into our resolutions—especially the ever-popular goal of weight loss. Whether it’s through healthier eating, exercise, or the help of medications like Ozempic or Wegovy, these changes can be incredibly rewarding. But here’s something people don’t always talk about: what happens to your hair during this transformation?

I’m no doctor (though I do feel like one when I’m mixing up hair color formulas or consulting Google at 2 a.m.), but after 26 years behind the chair and my own personal experiences, I’ve learned a thing or two about how your health journey can affect your hair. And let me tell you, weight loss and hair don’t always get along.

Here’s what I discovered during my own 2024 weight-loss journey—and how you can keep your hair looking fabulous while crushing your goals.

How Weight Loss Can Impact Hair

Let’s start with the science (don’t worry, I’ll keep it short):

1. Nutritional Deficiencies: When you cut calories or food groups, your body might skimp on nutrients your hair loves, like protein, biotin, and iron. Hair doesn’t say “thank you” for your green drinks—it says “feed me everything.”

2. Stress on the Body: Rapid weight loss can put your body into a mild state of shock, leading to a condition called telogen effluvium. Translation? Your hair gets dramatic and starts falling out.

3. Side Effects of Medications: Weight-loss meds like Ozempic or Wegovy can sometimes trigger hair thinning. The good news? It’s usually temporary.

My 2024 Journey: Hair, Weight Loss, and Extensions

In 2024, I set out to lose 30 pounds, focusing on Weight Watchers, Nutrafol vitamins, and daily exercise. It worked—but like most of us, I was worried about how this would affect my hair.

That’s where my extensions came to the rescue. Not only did they keep me looking put-together (even when I wasn’t feeling it), but they also saved me from stressing over shedding or spending hours styling my hair. My extensions gave me instant volume and confidence, so I could focus on my health goals without constantly worrying about my hair.

What I Recommend

If you’re on your own weight-loss journey and want to keep your hair looking fabulous, here are some tips I’ve learned the hard way:

• Eat Your Vitamins: I took Nutrafol every day. Think of it as a little insurance policy for your hair.

• Feed Your Hair: If your diet is starting to look like a rabbit’s meal plan, make sure you’re getting protein, biotin, and iron—your hair will thank you.

• Hydrate Like It’s Your Job: Water is your hair’s best friend. (Okay, wine is a close second, but moderation!)

• Scalp Love: Regular scalp treatments are a game-changer. Think of it like giving your hair a spa day.

• Get Extensions: When in doubt, add a row of beaded extensions. They’re like Spanx for your hair—instant confidence boost!

Solutions for Hair Loss During Weight Loss

If shedding happens (because let’s face it, hair sometimes has a mind of its own), there are options:

• Beaded Row Extensions: These blend seamlessly and give you that full, gorgeous look while protecting your natural hair.

• Crown Toppers: Perfect for thinning in one area and super lightweight.

The Bottom Line

Weight loss is an incredible journey, but it doesn’t have to come at the expense of your hair. Whether you’re rocking extensions, treating your scalp like royalty, or just learning to laugh at the shedding strands in the shower, there’s always a solution.

So, here’s to 2024—a year of healthier habits, stronger hair, and feeling fabulous. And if you need help along the way, Studio One Hair Design has your back (and your hair).

Ready to start your year with confidence and great hair? Book a consultation with us today, and let’s make sure your hair goals match your life goals!