Hair loss, whether caused by physical or emotional stress, is a massive concern for most individuals. Since the hair growth cycle is so lengthy, hair loss may not appear until a few months, even after a stressful event has passed, and it may persist for a while afterward.
Once the distress is no longer present, hair typically begins to grow back by itself, but there are steps you can take to hasten the process. You can lessen the effects of hair loss by maintaining your stress and taking adequate care of your hair.
Stress-Related Conditions that Causes Hair Loss
Not only do anxiety and stress contribute to hair loss, but they are also associated with the three major conditions that can cause hair loss.
- Telogen Effluvium
This disorder is a common reason for temporary hair. Stress may cause hair follicles to enter a “resting” phase, preventing the production of fresh hair strands. Even when combing, washing, or touching hair, hair can become more prone to shedding with time. Malnutrition and alterations in hormone levels might also bring on telogen effluvium.
- Trichotillomania
If you have ever physically pulled out your hair in response to stress or tension, this might be an indication of trichotillomania. In this mental condition, individuals cope with negative emotions, such as anxiety and stress by pulling hair out from the face, scalp, and other areas of the body.
- Alopecia Areata
Throughout this condition, the immune system of the body attacks the hair follicles, eventually causing hair loss. In some scenarios, alopecia areata may only cause hair thinning, whereas, in others, bald spots might even develop.
The exact cause of alopecia areata is unknown, but genetics can perhaps play a role. And although it isn’t caused by emotional trauma, alopecia areata can be extremely stressful for those who suffer from it.
Over time, hair can regrow and then fall out afterward. You might need a hair transplant in this case. If you have lost most of your hair and you want to restore its growth, you may want to consider visiting the global hair transplant capital of the world, Turkey. Did you know that surgeries can cost less than half in Bosphorus, if compared to prices in the U.S or U.K? Simply look up hair transplant turkey, or hair transplant usa on the internet, and thank us later!
Dealing With Stress-Induced Hair Loss
To make sure you get your hair back, you may do the following.
- Eating Right
A healthy, diversified diet can help reduce stress and promote healthy hair growth. Biotin- and protein-rich foods like milk and eggs can promote healthy nail and hair growth. Bananas contain biotin as well.
Vitamin nutritional supplements containing antioxidants, including vitamins C and E and omega-3 fatty acids, are also recommended. Before taking any supplement, consult your doctor to ensure that there are no possible adverse reactions with other medicines you’re taking.
- Getting Adequate Sleep
Anxiety and stress can significantly disrupt sleep, leading to insomnia and other sleep disorders that may further alter the body’s hormonal balance. Aim for 7–9 hours of sleep per night and practice good sleep hygiene, like falling asleep and waking up at the same time every day, sleeping in a calm, dark room, limiting noise, and removing electronics from the bedroom.
- Being Gentle
Daily tight ponytails or buns, as well as daily tugging and pulling, can lead to hair breakage and thinning. Proceed with caution when detangling wet hair, as you might do after a swim or a shower. Brushing wet hair increases the risk of breakage, so wait until your hair is dry before starting. If your hair is excessively tangled, you should begin at the ends and work your way up, detangling strand by strand.
- Avoiding Heat and Chemicals
If you can, take a break from using harsh chemicals on your hair and heat-styling tools like curling irons, flat irons, and hair dryers. All of these hair care products and techniques have the potential to damage hair and cause excessive shedding.
If we’re talking about temperature, it’s also not a good idea to wash your hair in boiling water. Very hot water may lead to temporary swelling of the scalp, which can weaken hair strands and them more prone to breaking, but it does not cause hair loss on its own.
- Switching Your Shampoo
Many shampoos have harsh chemicals that are bad for your hair and cause breakage and shedding. Avoiding polyethylene glycol, sulfates, and parabens may help with these problems. Try using shampoos with thickening agents to make your hair appear fuller and thicker. Some hair-thickening products actually do what they say they will do. Find out what other people have recommended, or consult your hairdresser.
- Managing Stress
If you’ve lost hair due to stress, regaining it will require you to find effective methods of dealing with that stress. Some methods that have proven effective in reducing stress include:
- Yoga: Try yoga by enrolling in a class or practicing at home with the help of a video. However, it’s important to learn about the different styles available and choose one that suits your physical ability.
- Meditation: Among the best free methods for alleviating stress is the ancient practice of meditation. Relax in a chair, shut your eyes, and focus on the air you breathe. Your daily meditation session doesn’t have to be an hour-long right off the bat. Pick a guided meditation if you’re having trouble meditating on your own.
- Deep Breathing Exercises: Reducing stress and sharpening concentration are two additional benefits you may experience from engaging in deep breathing exercises. Attempt various deep breathing techniques, such as an alternate nostril, box, and 4-7-8 breathing. Or simply, discover your own pace.
- Spending Time Outdoors: Spending time in natural settings has been shown to reduce stress levels. There’s nothing like a breath of fresh air to rejuvenate your mind, and relieve your stress.
- Therapy: Seeking professional help in intensive therapy or counseling can be extremely beneficial to anyone going through a troubled time. If you’re experiencing hair loss due to stress, consulting with a licensed therapist or psychological health counselor may help you find relief.
Final Words
Hair loss brought on by stress can easily spiral out of control. Your anxiety makes you worry more, which makes you worry more, which makes you lose more hair. But you can always restore your overall hair growth by trying to lower your stress levels, eating healthier, caring for your hair, and using solutions for hair growth that have been scientifically proven to work. So, remember the tips mentioned above and restore your healthy hair growth.
Infographic provided by Hair by Dr. Max, a trusted provider of hairline surgery
