How Stress and Anxiety Contribute to Hair Loss (and What to Do About It)

Stress and anxiety are well-known contributors to a range of health issues, including digestive problems, poor sleep, and weakened immunity. However, one lesser-known effect of chronic stress is its impact on hair health. If you’ve noticed increased hair shedding or changes in scalp health during stressful periods, you’re not alone.

How Does Stress Cause Hair Loss?

There are several ways in which stress and anxiety can trigger or worsen hair loss:

1. Telogen Effluvium (Stress-Induced Hair Shedding)

Telogen effluvium is a condition where a significant number of hair follicles prematurely enter the resting phase (telogen) of the hair growth cycle. This results in increased hair shedding approximately 2–3 months after a stressful event. Common triggers include:

• Emotional stress (such as grief, anxiety, or work pressure)

• Physical stress (illness, surgery, or childbirth)

• Nutritional deficiencies caused by stress-related poor eating habits

2. Alopecia Areata (Autoimmune Hair Loss)

In some cases, severe stress can contribute to alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks hair follicles, causing patchy hair loss. Stress can act as a trigger for those who are genetically predisposed to the condition.

3. Trichotillomania (Hair-Pulling Disorder)

Chronic anxiety can lead to compulsive hair-pulling, known as trichotillomania. This is an impulse control disorder where individuals feel compelled to pull out hair from the scalp, eyebrows, or other areas as a response to stress or anxiety.

4. Scalp Imbalances from Stress Hormones

Stress increases the production of cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone. Elevated cortisol levels can lead to:

• Increased scalp oil production, resulting in dandruff or seborrhoeic dermatitis

• Inflammation and irritation, making the scalp more sensitive

How to Reduce Stress-Related Hair Loss

The good news is that stress-related hair loss is often reversible once the underlying stress is managed. Here are some strategies to help support hair health:

1. Prioritise Stress Management Techniques

Finding ways to reduce daily stress can help restore balance to the hair growth cycle. Consider incorporating:

• Meditation and deep breathing exercises

• Yoga or gentle movement practices

• Journaling or creative hobbies

• Spending time outdoors

2. Nourish Your Body with the Right Nutrients

Since stress can deplete essential nutrients, focus on a diet rich in:

• Protein: Essential for hair growth (eggs, fish, lean meats, legumes)

• Iron and Zinc: Crucial for scalp health (spinach, nuts, seeds, red meat)

• B Vitamins: Support energy and follicle function (whole grains, leafy greens)

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Reduce inflammation (salmon, chia seeds, walnuts)

3. Improve Sleep Quality

Poor sleep increases stress levels, creating a cycle that contributes to hair loss. Try to:

• Maintain a consistent sleep schedule

• Reduce screen time before bed

• Use relaxation techniques to improve sleep quality

4. Scalp Care and Gentle Hair Treatments

Being kind to your hair and scalp during stressful periods can minimise further damage. Avoid:

• Tight hairstyles that cause tension on the scalp

• Excessive heat styling

• Harsh shampoos with sulphates and alcohols

Instead, opt for gentle, pH-balanced shampoos and scalp treatments to maintain a healthy scalp environment.

5. Seek Professional Support

If you’re experiencing persistent hair loss, a trichologist can assess the cause and provide personalised treatment options. At Holistic Scalp and Hair, we take a natural, science-backed approach to addressing stress-related hair loss, incorporating nutritional guidance, lifestyle adjustments, and scalp treatments to support long-term hair health.

Final Thoughts

Stress-related hair loss can be distressing, but understanding the connection between stress, anxiety, and hair health is the first step to restoring balance. By implementing stress management techniques, improving nutrition, and caring for your scalp, you can support healthy hair regrowth.

If you’re concerned about hair loss and want expert guidance, book a consultation with me at Holistic Scalp and Hair. Let’s work together to restore your hair and scalp health naturally. 🌿✨