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

Trichologists can help identify causes of hair loss

We all know that stress can take a toll on our health—whether it's feeling run down, struggling to sleep, or dealing with an upset stomach. But one lesser-known effect of chronic stress is how it impacts your hair. If you’ve noticed more strands in the shower or changes in your scalp during stressful times, you’re definitely not alone.

How Does Stress Cause Hair Loss?

There are a few ways stress and anxiety can influence the health of your hair:

1. Telogen Effluvium (Stress-Induced Hair Shedding)

This is one of the most common ways stress affects the hair. Telogen effluvium happens when a large number of hair follicles enter the resting phase (telogen) too early, which leads to noticeable shedding a couple of months after a stressful event. Triggers can include:

• Emotional stress (grief, anxiety, work pressure)

• Physical stress (surgery, illness, childbirth)

• Nutrient depletion from stress-related poor eating habits

2. Alopecia Areata (Autoimmune Hair Loss)

Severe emotional stress can sometimes contribute to alopecia areata, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the hair follicles, leading to sudden patchy hair loss. Stress doesn't cause the condition on its own, but it can act as a trigger in people who are already genetically predisposed.

3. Trichotillomania (Hair-Pulling Disorder)

This is a lesser-talked-about response to anxiety. Trichotillomania is a compulsive urge to pull out your own hair, often from the scalp, eyebrows, or eyelashes. It’s a form of stress relief for some, but over time, it can result in noticeable hair loss.

4. Scalp Imbalances Triggered by Stress Hormones

When you're under stress, your body produces more cortisol, the main stress hormone. This can affect your scalp by:

• Increasing oil production, which may lead to dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis

• Causing inflammation and irritation, which makes the scalp feel sensitive or itchy

What Can You Do About It?

The good news is that stress-related hair loss is often temporary—once the stress eases and your body finds its balance again, your hair usually starts to bounce back. Here are some simple and natural ways to help support your hair and scalp health:

1. Find Everyday Ways to Manage Stress

You don’t need to overhaul your life overnight. Start small with daily habits that help calm your nervous system:

• Try deep breathing, meditation, or gentle yoga

• Spend time in nature or get some sunshine

• Journal your thoughts to clear mental clutter

• Make time for a creative outlet, even just 10 minutes a day

2. Fuel Your Body (and Your Hair)

Stress can deplete your nutrient stores, so it's important to eat foods that support healthy hair:

• Protein: Your hair needs it to grow (eggs, legumes, lean meats)

• Iron and Zinc: Help maintain scalp health (dark leafy greens, seeds, red meat)

• B Vitamins: Keep your follicles energised (whole grains, avocado, leafy greens)

• Omega-3s: Help reduce inflammation (salmon, flaxseeds, walnuts)

3. Get Better Sleep

When we’re tired, we’re more stressed. And when we’re stressed, we sleep poorly—it’s a vicious cycle. Improving your sleep can have a knock-on effect for your hair too:

• Stick to a regular bedtime routine

• Limit screens before bed

• Create a relaxing wind-down ritual like reading or taking a bath

4. Be Gentle With Your Hair and Scalp

Your scalp might be more sensitive when you’re under stress. A few small changes can help protect it:

• Avoid tight ponytails or buns that pull on the roots

• Skip harsh products with alcohol or sulphates

• Choose gentle, pH-balanced shampoos and conditioners

Consider incorporating a soothing scalp massage or treatment oil into your weekly routine. These little rituals not only support your scalp health—they also help you unwind.

5. Reach Out for Support

If your hair loss feels like it’s not improving or you're unsure where to start, a consultation with a trichologist can give you clarity. At Holistic Scalp and Hair, I take a whole-body, natural approach to hair health, combining nutrition, stress support, and gentle topical treatments to help you get to the root of the issue.

Final Thoughts

Hair loss can feel overwhelming—especially when it’s tied to your emotions or mental health. But you’re not powerless. By understanding how stress affects your body and hair, and taking small steps to support yourself, you can give your hair the best chance to recover and thrive.

If you’d like tailored advice and a caring, holistic plan, book a consultation with me at Holistic Scalp and Hair. Let’s work together to restore balance and bring back healthier hair—naturally. 🌿