Telogen Effluvium – a review of the science and current obstacles

•Telogen effluvium (TE) is a common form of diffuse non-scarring hair loss, which occurs after physiological and emotional stress.•Although it is common and predictable, the mechanisms of TE in humans are unexplored.•Treatments for other forms of hair loss (ie. Minoxidil, anti-androgen medication) may not be suitable for certain subsets of TE patients.•More rigorous basic science and translational studies are required before we can provide effective treatments for TE patients. Telogen effluvium (TE) is a common cause of diffuse non-scarring hair loss that is usually precipitated by physiological stress such as childbirth or sudden weight loss. Despite its high rate of remission, this phenomenon of sudden excessive hair loss can be very worrisome and upsetting for affected individuals and may significantly impact their quality of life. Due to the multifactorial causes and precipitants of TE, it is often challenging to diagnose and manage. Further, the mechanisms through which physiological stress influences the human hair cycle is unknown, and there are no targeted treatments for the management of TE. This review will describe the approach in making a diagnosis of TE, summarize the latest developments made in understanding the mechanisms of TE, outline the treatments tried, and recommend ways for advancing the study of this dermatological condition.