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October 14, 2024Stress is an inevitable part of modern life. From work pressures to personal challenges, our minds and bodies are constantly dealing with stressful situations. But what many people don’t realise is that prolonged or extreme stress can have profound effects on our physical health, including one of the most distressing consequences—hair loss. Losing hair can add to the already existing stress, creating a vicious cycle that can feel difficult to break. However, understanding the link between stress and hair loss, along with the range of treatment options available, can offer hope and guidance for those affected. We spoke to the Trichology team at the My Hair UK healthcare group for some expert advice. (If you are considering surgical treatment visit their website for a free confidential consultation.)
Understanding the Link Between Stress and Hair Loss
There are several ways that stress can trigger hair loss, each with its own mechanism and impact on hair health. The most common conditions where stress plays a significant role include:

1. Telogen Effluvium
Telogen effluvium is one of the most common types of stress-related hair loss. Normally, around 85-90% of hair follicles are in the growth phase (anagen), while the remaining 10-15% are in the resting (telogen) phase. When the body is subjected to severe or prolonged stress, a larger proportion of hair follicles prematurely enter the telogen phase, where they remain dormant for several months before shedding. This leads to noticeable thinning or increased hair shedding, often several months after the stressful event.
Common triggers for telogen effluvium include emotional stress, childbirth, illness, significant weight loss, or major life changes. While the condition is usually temporary, it can cause significant anxiety, which in turn can perpetuate the cycle of hair loss.
2. Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, causing hair to fall out in small, round patches. Stress is a well-known trigger for alopecia areata, although the precise mechanism is not fully understood. The condition can progress to more extensive hair loss, and in some cases, may result in the complete loss of hair from the scalp or body.
3. Trichotillomania
Trichotillomania is a psychological condition in which individuals feel compelled to pull out their own hair, often as a coping mechanism for dealing with stress, anxiety, or boredom. Over time, this behaviour can lead to significant hair loss, bald patches, and damage to hair follicles, which may impair future hair growth.
4. Androgenetic Alopecia (Male and Female Pattern Baldness)
Although androgenetic alopecia is largely driven by genetics and hormonal changes, stress can exacerbate the condition. Prolonged periods of stress can accelerate the progression of pattern baldness, particularly in those who are already predisposed to the condition. In men, this typically results in a receding hairline and thinning at the crown, while women may experience diffuse thinning across the scalp.
How to Combat Stress-Related Hair Loss
The good news is that stress-related hair loss is often reversible, particularly when the underlying stress is managed, and the body is given the time and resources it needs to recover. Below are various treatments and lifestyle changes that can help restore hair health and mitigate further hair loss.
1. Stress Management and Lifestyle Adjustments
Addressing the root cause of stress is the first and most important step in managing stress-induced hair loss. Techniques that promote relaxation and help the body cope with stress include:
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Mindfulness and Meditation: Mindfulness-based stress reduction techniques, such as meditation and deep breathing exercises, can help reduce anxiety and lower stress levels, benefiting both mental and physical health. Regular practice can help calm the mind, regulate cortisol levels, and create a more balanced environment for hair growth.
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Exercise: Physical activity is a natural stress reliever that promotes the release of endorphins, the body’s “feel-good” hormones. Regular exercise can also improve blood circulation, which in turn ensures that hair follicles receive a steady supply of oxygen and nutrients. Activities like yoga, walking, or swimming are excellent ways to manage stress while promoting overall well-being.
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Sleep Hygiene: Chronic stress often goes hand-in-hand with poor sleep, which can further contribute to hair loss. Prioritising quality sleep is essential for allowing the body to recover and maintain healthy hair growth. Establishing a consistent bedtime routine, limiting screen time before bed, and creating a calm sleep environment can all contribute to better sleep and reduced stress.
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Balanced Diet: Nutritional deficiencies can exacerbate hair loss, especially when coupled with stress. A diet rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly iron, zinc, and B-vitamins, is essential for healthy hair growth. Including foods like leafy greens, nuts, seeds, fish, and lean meats can ensure the body has the nutrients it needs to support healthy hair.
2. Topical Treatments
When stress-related hair loss becomes more noticeable, there are several over-the-counter and prescription treatments that can help stimulate hair growth and reduce shedding.
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Minoxidil (Rogaine): Minoxidil is one of the most commonly used treatments for hair loss, available in both foam and liquid formulations. It is applied directly to the scalp and works by increasing blood flow to the hair follicles, prolonging the growth phase and encouraging hair regrowth. Minoxidil is effective for both men and women and is particularly useful for those experiencing telogen effluvium or androgenetic alopecia.
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Corticosteroids: In cases of alopecia areata, where an overactive immune system is attacking hair follicles, corticosteroid treatments can help reduce inflammation and suppress the immune response. These treatments are available in topical, oral, or injectable forms and can help promote regrowth in areas affected by patchy hair loss.
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Hair Growth Serums and Supplements: In addition to minoxidil, there are a number of hair growth serums and supplements on the market that contain ingredients like biotin, zinc, and peptides. These products aim to nourish the scalp, strengthen hair strands, and encourage healthy growth.
3. Hair Transplants: A Permanent Solution
For those experiencing significant hair loss that does not respond to less invasive treatments, hair transplants offer a permanent solution. While hair transplants were once considered an extreme measure, advancements in surgical techniques have made the procedure more refined, with natural-looking results.
Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) and Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT)
There are two primary techniques used in hair transplantation: Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) and Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT).
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FUE: In this minimally invasive procedure, individual hair follicles are harvested from a donor area (typically the back of the head) and transplanted into thinning or balding areas. FUE leaves minimal scarring and has a faster recovery time compared to traditional methods, making it a popular choice for men and women alike.
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FUT: In this procedure, a strip of skin containing hair follicles is removed from the donor area and then divided into individual grafts. While FUT may leave a linear scar at the donor site, it is a more cost-effective option for individuals requiring a larger number of grafts.
Both FUE and FUT offer long-lasting results, and the transplanted hair will grow naturally in the new location. However, it’s important to note that hair transplants are not suitable for everyone. Those with active autoimmune conditions, such as alopecia areata, may not be ideal candidates, as the transplanted follicles could still be attacked by the immune system.
4. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
Platelet-rich plasma therapy is a non-surgical treatment that uses the body’s own platelets to stimulate hair growth. The process involves drawing a small amount of the patient’s blood, processing it to concentrate the platelets, and then injecting the platelet-rich plasma directly into the scalp. PRP contains growth factors that promote healing and encourage hair follicles to enter the growth phase.
PRP is often used as an adjunct therapy to hair transplants, but it can also be effective as a stand-alone treatment for individuals experiencing hair thinning or shedding due to stress.
5. Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)
Low-level laser therapy is an emerging treatment for hair loss that involves using red light lasers to stimulate hair follicles and promote regrowth. The light increases cellular activity within the follicles, enhancing hair production and reducing shedding. LLLT can be used in conjunction with other treatments, such as minoxidil or PRP, to maximise results.
Preventing Future Hair Loss
While treating hair loss is important, taking steps to prevent future loss is equally crucial. Here are some preventative measures to incorporate into your routine:
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Gentle Hair Care: Avoid harsh chemical treatments, excessive heat styling, or tight hairstyles that can damage hair and contribute to shedding. Opt for gentle, sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners that nourish the scalp without stripping it of natural oils.
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Regular Scalp Massages: A simple scalp massage can do wonders for hair health by promoting blood circulation to the hair follicles. Massaging the scalp with a nourishing oil, such as rosemary or jojoba oil, can help reduce stress while also supporting hair growth.
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Routine Check-Ups: Hair loss can sometimes be a sign of an underlying health condition, such as thyroid dysfunction or anaemia. Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider can help identify any potential issues before they affect your hair.
Conclusion
Stress and hair loss often go hand in hand, but the situation is far from hopeless. By addressing the root causes of stress, adopting healthy lifestyle practices, and exploring treatment options—from topical solutions to hair transplants—many individuals can reverse the effects of stress-induced hair loss and enjoy a fuller, healthier head of hair. While the journey to regrowth may take time and patience, the rewards of a restored hairline and renewed confidence are well worth the effort.