CAN STRESS CAUSE HAIR LOSS?

CAN HAIR LOSS BE CAUSED BY STRESS? 

The short answer is yes. Although relatively uncommon, hair loss does not discriminate and extreme stress can cause varying degrees of fall and thinning. If the pandemic has prompted your strands to experience stress-related shedding, you are not alone. But what is the reason behind it?

WHY DOES STRESS CAUSE HAIR LOSS? 

• Stress affects adrenaline levels  
• Stress can impact diet and nutrition
• Stress affects your immune system 

One of the main reasons stress is linked to hair loss is its ability to increase the body’s production of adrenaline. This adrenaline is then converted into cholesterol, which is capable of raising the body’s level of testosterone. Testosterone is a male hormone that impacts hair growth. For women, raised levels of testosterone can affect their hair growth cycle, which causes thinning hair and hair loss.  

Whenpeople are stressed they tend not to look after themselves properly, skipping meals or snacking on non-nutritious food instead of choosing fresh, healthy options. Diet has a massive impact on hair health: iron deficiency, lack of protein and low-calorie meals can all contribute to unwanted hair thinning or loss. 

WILL YOU SEE IMMEDIATE HAIR LOSS FROM STRESS? 

Stress doesn't cause instant hair loss. Due to the hair growth cycle, it usually begins between 6-12 weeks later. Stress can affect the immune system, making you more susceptible to illness. It’s often suggested that illnesses such as flu, high temperatures and stomach upsets can trigger hair loss up to 3 months later. Sudden and unexpected hair loss can be a sign of an underlying medical condition. It's always worth speaking to a medical professional about any hair loss-related concerns you may have. 

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE FOR HAIR TO GROW BACK AFTER STRESS? 

The total hair loss and regrowth cycle lasts around 6 months. It takes 3 months for signs of thinning to show, and 3 months for strands to return to their former density.