Does stress really cause hair loss?

Are you experiencing sudden hair loss after a stressful period? You're not alone in experiencing this.

Before we begin, you should know that it is completely normal to lose between 50 and 100 hairs per day. But if you notice that you are losing a little more hair than before, especially when brushing or washing your hair, this is where the situation becomes more worrying. One of the triggers of such hair loss is unsurprisingly stress or anxiety . Without further ado, we will explain the link between stress and hair loss .

The Impact of Stress on Hair Loss: What Does the Science Say?

Stress-induced hair loss , also known medically as telogen effluvium or reactive hair loss , causes up to a 20% to 30% reduction in hair density. “ This phenomenon is explained by the close link between stress, hormones, and the hair growth cycle ,” say our hair care specialists at sssKin .

A study published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology showed that when our bodies are subjected to major physical or emotional stress, the hair growth cycle is disrupted.

Our hair goes through three phases: anagen (active growth), catagen (transition phase), and telogen (resting phase). Typically, only 15% of hair is in the telogen phase, but under stress, the growth phase (anagen) is abruptly shortened, and a large number of hair follicles enter the telogen phase prematurely. This disruption of the hair life cycle leads to hair loss and a much greater loss of mass, which occurs approximately 3 to 6 months after the stress triggers.

The different types of stress and their impact on hair

Sources of stress can manifest themselves in different forms, each with a distinct impact on hair health.

Emotional stress

Intense emotional stress is triggered by traumatic events such as psychological shocks, bereavement, family tensions, professional pressures which manifest themselves through fatigue and extreme nervousness.

Its impact on hair

When we experience emotional stress , our bodies release stress hormones such as cortisol, which can dramatically disrupt the hair growth cycle and cause telogen effluvium. In addition to its effect on the hair growth cycle, high cortisol production causes chronic inflammation in the scalp, creating conditions conducive to hair loss.

Physiological stress

Physiological stresses are caused by illness, surgery, nutritional deficiencies, physical overexertion and hormonal changes or even childbirth.

Its impact on hair

When we experience these events, the body begins to draw on its reserves to maintain its vital functions, and the hair follicles are deprived of the resources they need to produce new hair.

Environmental stress

Environmental stress includes external factors such as pollution, extreme weather conditions, prolonged exposure to toxins and any other tension that destabilizes our nervous system and the natural balance of the scalp.

Its impact on hair

A buildup of pollutants on the scalp can clog hair follicles, causing inflammation and oxidative stress, accelerating premature hair aging and contributing to hair loss. Finally, climatic conditions and prolonged exposure to toxins weaken the hair fiber and make it less resistant to stress and external aggressions.

There is also chronic stress which can also aggravate existing conditions like alopecia areata, an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks hair follicles, causing bald patches.

How to Know if Hair Loss is Due to Stress

Symptoms to watch for:

• The fall is more brutal and sudden.

• Change in hair texture, becoming increasingly thin and fragile.

• You notice more hair in the shower, on your pillow, brush, or even around your hair tie.

• Triggering of the fall 2 to 6 months after major stress.

• Sore scalp.

• Depigmentation potential.

How to stop and prevent stress-related hair loss?

To manage and stop stress-related hair loss, it's recommended to address the sources of stress. Here are three solutions you can implement daily to help you avoid making the situation worse and protect your hair from stress.

1. Eliminate or reduce stressors with:

• Relaxation techniques (controlled breathing and meditation) offer your mind a restful break. It's also a solution for lowering cortisol levels by helping to calm the nervous system.

• A physical activity to release endorphins which have natural analgesic effects.

• A regular sleep routine helps regulate stress hormones.

2. Strengthen your hair from within with targeted nutrition:

• Essential vitamins and minerals including iron for oxygenation of follicles, zinc and biotin to promote hair growth, omega-3 to reduce inflammation and nourish hair.

• Protein-rich foods to strengthen hair.

• Drink enough water for a healthy scalp.

3. A well-thought-out anti-hair loss routine and care:

• Gentle and specific anti-hair loss shampoos to strengthen hair from the roots, rich in stimulating ingredients such as biotin or plant extracts.

• Adapted hair care (anti-hair loss serums or lotions) based on peptides or vitamins.

• Daily scalp massage to activate blood circulation

• Stop using tight hairstyles and excessively hot heating tools.

Actions to avoid in the event of telogen effluvium

Some common practices worsen hair loss instead of improving it. Adopt these healthy practices during this period of stress-related hair loss.

• Do not overwash your hair, which can dry it out.

• Avoid products containing harsh sulfates or heavy silicones.

• Limit chemical treatments such as repeated coloring and bleaching.

How long does stress-related hair loss last?

• A stress-related fall can last around 6 months: if the sources of stress were managed in time in combination with appropriate care.

• Regrowth begins after 6 months: The first signs of regrowth appear in the form of "baby hairs." This gives the follicles time to reactivate and produce new hair.

• Complete regrowth after one year: you will regain visible and uniform hair density.

In cases where stress is prolonged or intense, or if other factors occur during this period (deficiencies, poor hair habits), hair loss can be prolonged and regrowth can be delayed. This is when you should consult a hair specialist for a personalized diagnosis and to offer you professional medical therapies or drug treatments or perhaps even both, depending on your needs.

You should definitely not ignore the warning signs!

Our PRP treatment for stress-related hair loss

Our PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) protocol is specifically designed to treat stress-induced hair loss. Thanks to its ability to revitalize weakened follicles, it can significantly slow hair loss, stimulate natural and lasting regrowth, and improve hair density.

PRP also improves blood circulation in the scalp and soothes inflammation often caused by stress.

Find out more about our PRP hair treatment!

Conclusion: Does stress really cause hair loss?

Yes, stress can actually cause hair loss. This loss is often reversible if the source of stress is identified and managed.

Not sure about your symptoms? Start a hair diagnosis today

Take advantage of our hair specialists' expertise to conduct a comprehensive hair loss diagnosis. Identify the exact cause of your hair loss and discover if PRP treatment is the best solution to effectively reverse it.

Book your free consultation session

FAQ: Stress and Hair Loss

How to stop stress-related hair loss?

To stop stress-related hair loss, massage your scalp daily to stimulate blood circulation. Use gentle shampoos free of sulfates and parabens. Apply essential oils like lavender, peppermint, rosemary, or orange to soothe and revitalize the scalp to slow hair loss. Incorporate stress management techniques, like meditation or yoga, to reduce its impact on hair health, and eat a balanced diet.

How do you know if hair loss is due to stress?

Stress-induced hair loss is diffuse, where hair falls out evenly, and occurs 2 to 3 months after intense emotional or physical stress. If hair falls out very suddenly and in unusual amounts, it is likely telogen effluvium.

Does anxiety cause hair loss?

Yes, anxiety and stress release hormones like cortisol, which can disrupt the hair growth cycle. This causes follicles to prematurely enter the resting phase (telogen), leading to excessive hair loss.

When to worry about hair loss?

If you lose more than 150 hairs per day or notice thinning areas, consult a specialist. Persistent hair loss lasting more than three months requires treatment.

Does hair always grow back after stress-related hair loss?

Yes, hair typically grows back within 6 to 12 months once the stressor is removed. Hair follicles reactivate and the growth cycle begins again. Regrowth, however, depends on the severity of the stress and the overall health of your hair.

Can stress cause permanent baldness?

Stress alone doesn't cause permanent baldness, but it can worsen conditions like androgenetic alopecia. Early treatment is essential to preserve follicles.