In this article, we delve into the science behind hair loss due to stress, the different types of hair loss associated with stress, and what you can do to manage its impacts on your overall well-being.
Chronic stress interrupts the hair growth cycle and forces follicles into the resting phase before their natural time, this can lead to hair loss over a period of time.
This can be due to highly difficult or demanding physical life events such as childbirth, which may lead to postpartum hair loss or emotional stress such as trauma, job loss or divorce.
Hair shedding can also be caused by hormonal fluctuations, particularly the release of cortisol which is a primary stress hormone.
Androgenetic alopecia is the most common type of hair loss. It is a genetic condition which affects both men and women and is widely known as ‘male-pattern baldness ‘or’ female-pattern hair loss’. This type of hair loss is not reversible, however, it can be managed and treated with medication, or a medical procedure.
Male pattern baldness is caused by high levels of DHT (dihydrotestosterone), a by-product of testosterone. DHT shrinks hair follicles to a point where they no longer produce hair.
Female pattern baldness is usually caused by aging, and changes in hormone levels.
In men, hair shedding often begins with recession and hair thinning at the front, and thinning of the hair on the crown, eventually leading to partial or complete baldness.
In women, the hairline is not usually affected, and hair loss is limited to the crown.
It can also present as generalised thinning across the whole scalp.
There can be many different causes of hair loss in women. Hormone fluctuations during perimenopause, menopause, pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding can cause a decline in estrogen levels and a rise in androgen levels. Hair follicles are more sensitive to androgens causing them to shrink, which results in thinning and loss.
Common thyroid disorders, such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, may also disrupt the balance of hormones and cause hair to shed.
The good news is that it is possible to regain hair that has been lost because of stress. Treatments can vary depending on the type of hair loss you are experiencing, below, we outline some of the most common treatment options.
Telogen effluvium can be triggered by stress, but also illness, medication, hormonal changes, or nutritional deficiencies. It is important to identify the underlying cause to treat the condition correctly.
Over-the-counter topical treatments such as Regaine Extra Strength Foam, which contains the active ingredient minoxidil, can help to stimulate hair regrowth and reduce shedding.
You should also ensure that you are getting adequate amounts of essential vitamins and minerals, which is important for the normal growth and function of hair follicle stem cells.
Topical steroids are usually the first-line treatment for alopecia areata. They work by reducing inflammation and suppressing the immune response where hair loss has occurred, promoting regrowth. The treatment is available as a cream, ointment or solution which is applied directly to the scalp.
Topical immunotherapy is another treatment option. This process involves applying a chemical irritant to the scalp to cause an allergic reaction, stimulating an immune response and in turn, hair regrowth. In some cases, oral corticosteroids may be prescribed for severe cases of alopecia areata or if other treatments have not been effective.
Treatment usually involves addressing the underlying behaviors and psychological factors which lead to hair pulling.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of talking therapy which is most widely recommended for people with trichotillomania. It is structured to help identify triggers and behaviors and teach you coping strategies to modify these patterns. Habit reversal training (HRT) is a specific technique that is often used, which involves replacing hair pulling with alternative behaviors, such as fist-clenching.
In some cases, medication such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may be prescribed if anxiety or depression are thought to be contributing factors.
There is no cure for androgenetic alopecia, however, hair loss treatments can help to slow down hair loss and promote hair regrowth.
Finasteride is one of the most common treatments for male pattern baldness. Finasteride tablets work by blocking the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the hormone which stops follicles from producing hair.
Minoxidil is another effective treatment, which works by promoting blood flow. This provides hair follicles with oxygen and nutrients, enabling hair regrowth. Minoxidil is available as a topical solution for both men and women.
To tailor your diet to reduce hair loss, consider incorporating the following nutrients:
By reducing stress, you can help to stop hair loss. Strategies to help manage stress include:
Seek professional help: If stress becomes overwhelming or unmanageable, consider seeking support from a mental health professional, such as a therapist or counselor. They can provide coping strategies, support, and guidance tailored to your individual needs
Hair Loss (2024) NHS. (Accessed: 02 May 2024). Available at: ttps://www.nhs.uk/conditions/hair-loss/
Women and hair loss: coping tips (2024) NHS. (Accessed: 02 May 2024). Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/hair-loss/coping-tips-for-women/
Whilst all of our content is written and reviewed by healthcare professionals, it is not intended to be substituted for or used as medical advice. If you have any questions or concerns about your health, please speak to your doctor.