Stress is something everyone experiences at different times in their lives. It can come from work, school, relationship issues, societal pressure or other sources. While most people know that stress can affect their health, it can also have a surprising impact on hair. In this article, we will explore how stress affects our hair, why it happens, and what we can do about it.
Stress and hair fall relation
Stress is a reaction in the body to challenges or demands. When we feel stressed, our body releases hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones prepare us to deal with danger or difficulties, which is often called the "fight or flight" response. While this reaction can be helpful in short bursts, intense and long-term stress can lead to various health problems, including issues with hair. Imbalance or high levels of cortisol can lead to hair fall and then hair loss. This condition is known as telogen effluvium, where hair follicles go into a resting phase, causing more hair to fall out than usual.
Understanding why stress affects hair requires a closer look at the body. When stress hormones are released, they can impact many systems in the body. Hormonal changes, inflammation, nutritional deficiency, and poor lifestyle are the potent reasons for hair fall or hair loss during a stressful period.
Know that hair fall and hair loss are two different concerns. Hair fall is a natural phenomenon where most of the time hair loss becomes difficult to reverse. Therefore, prevention is better than cure in such a circumstance. Here are three types of hair loss that can be caused by chronic stress.
Telogen Effluvium: As mentioned, this is when stress pushes hair follicles into a resting phase. It usually happens a few months after a stressful event, like losing a job or experiencing a traumatic event.
Alopecia Areata: This is an autoimmune condition that can be triggered by stress. In this case, the immune system attacks hair follicles, leading to patchy hair loss.
Trichotillomania: This is a mental health condition where people pull out their own hair, often as a way to cope with stress or anxiety.
Hair problems due to stress
Hair loss
One of the most common effects of stress on hair is hair loss. This condition is known as telogen effluvium. Normally, our hair goes through a cycle of growth, rest, and shedding. When we experience significant stress, a large number of hair follicles can enter the resting phase at once, leading to increased hair shedding.
In some cases, people might notice more hair on their brushes or in the shower. This type of hair loss can happen a few months after a stressful event.
Thinning hair
Stress can also cause hair to thin out over time. The constant release of stress hormones can disrupt the hair growth cycle, leading to weaker and thinner strands. This can make hair appear less full and healthy.Thinning hair due to stress can be distressing, especially for women.
Graying
Stress can cause hair to gray by activating melanocyte stem cells in the hair follicle, which causes them to change into melanocytes and migrate away from the follicle. This prevents new pigment cells from being made, resulting in gray or white hair.
Scalp issues
Stress can also lead to problems on the scalp. Conditions like dandruff or dry scalp can worsen during stressful periods. These conditions can lead to itching, flaking, and discomfort, further contributing to the stress cycle.
Which supplements are helpful?
Healthy lifestyle is one of the most crucial thing to do to control hair damage and fall. Good diet, relaxation techniques, sound sleep, workout and nutrition are the ways to healthy scalp and hair. Essential nutrients promote hair health. Here are some key supplements that may help:
1. Biotin
Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is often called the "hair vitamin." It plays a crucial role in the production of keratin, a protein that makes up hair. Biotin can strengthen hair and prevent brittleness. Taking biotin supplements may improve hair growth, especially for those experiencing stress-related hair loss.
2. Vitamin D
Sunshine vitamin or vitamin D is necessary for overall health, including hair health. Studies show that low levels of vitamin D can lead to hair loss. This vitamin helps create new hair follicles and is vital for maintaining healthy hair growth. Spending time in the sun and taking vitamin D supplements can help increase levels in the body.
3. Iron
Iron is important for red blood cells, which carry oxygen to the hair follicles. Iron deficiency can lead to hair thinning and loss. If you are feeling stressed and not eating well, consider iron supplements to support healthy hair growth.
4. Zinc
This mineral plays a key role in hair tissue growth and repair. It also helps keep oil glands around the hair follicles working properly. Zinc deficiency can lead to hair loss, so adding a zinc supplement may help improve hair health.
5. Omega-3 fatty acids
These healthy fats can help reduce inflammation in the body, which can be beneficial for overall hair health. Omega-3s can also nourish hair and promote a healthy scalp. Since the beginning fish oil supplements are a popular source of omega-3 fatty acids.
Lifestyle changes and taking care of these nutrition intake can help you getting new hairs.
Stress is a part of life, taking it easy is the way. Understanding how stress affects hair can help take steps to manage it better. By practicing relaxation techniques, maintaining a healthy diet, and taking care of our hair, we can reduce the negative effects of stress on our locks. Be kind to yourself during stressful times, and seeking help when needed can make a big difference. Healthy hair is often a reflection of a healthy mind and body.
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