Link between Stress and Hair Loss
Can stress cause hair loss? This question worries many people who experience sudden shedding or thinning hair during difficult times. The answer is yes. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, high levels of stress can disrupt the natural hair growth cycle and trigger a condition called telogen effluvium, where hair prematurely enters the shedding phase. This type of hair loss usually becomes noticeable a few weeks to months after a stressful event.
How Can Stress Cause Hair Loss in the Body?
Stress impacts the body in multiple ways, and your hair is no exception. When you face chronic emotional or physical stress—such as illness, surgery, financial strain, or even intense dieting—your body diverts its energy away from non-essential functions like hair growth. Research from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) shows that stress increases levels of cortisol, a hormone that can disrupt the hair follicle’s normal cycle. As a result, hair follicles go into a resting state, leading to increased shedding.
Moreover, stress can lead to poor eating habits, sleep disturbances, and digestive issues, which in turn affect your hair’s access to essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and protein. This nutrient imbalance makes it even harder for the hair to regrow. So, can stress cause hair loss? Yes—and often more than we realize.
Managing Stress to Reduce Hair Loss Naturally
The good news is that stress-related hair loss is often temporary. As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), managing stress through regular physical activity, a balanced diet, mindfulness practices, and good sleep can help restore your body’s equilibrium and promote healthier hair growth. In some cases, dermatologists may recommend supplements or topical treatments to support recovery. But which type of diet is useful for hair loss? If u want to know.. Stay tuned for the next blog.
Healthcare Note:
If you’re experiencing persistent or patchy hair loss, consult a dermatologist to rule out underlying medical conditions such as thyroid disorders, alopecia areata, or nutrient deficiencies.
