The Connection Between Stress and Hair Loss

Understanding How Your Emotions Show Up on Your Scalp

We all know stress affects the body — it can disrupt sleep, spike blood pressure, and drain energy. But one lesser-talked-about symptom? Hair loss. Yes, your scalp can absolutely feel what your mind is going through.

Let’s break down the connection between stress and hair loss, and what you can do about it.

How Stress Affects Hair Growth

Hair grows in cycles — and stress can interrupt that cycle. Here are the three main ways it shows up:

1. Telogen Effluvium (TE)

This is the most common type of stress-related hair loss.

Under emotional or physical stress, a large number of hair follicles enter the resting (telogen) phase.
After 2–3 months, those hairs shed all at once, causing noticeable thinning or hair fall.
Triggers can include a traumatic event, surgery, childbirth, illness, or chronic emotional stress.

2. Trichotillomania

This is a stress or anxiety-related disorder where a person feels compelled to pull out their own hair — often from the scalp, brows, or lashes.

It’s often a coping mechanism for anxiety, tension, or emotional overwhelm.
It’s more common than people think and can be treated with therapy and support.

3. Alopecia Areata

This autoimmune condition can be triggered by extreme stress.

The body’s immune system attacks hair follicles, causing sudden round patches of hair loss.
The exact cause isn’t always clear, but stress is often a contributing factor.
It may resolve on its own or require medical treatment.

Signs Your Hair Loss May Be Stress-Related

You notice sudden shedding or clumps of hair coming out in the shower or brush
Your hair feels thinner all over, not just in one spot
You’ve been through a major life change or stressful period in the last few months

How to Reduce Stress-Induced Hair Loss

Focus on Scalp and Hair Health

Use gentle, sulfate-free shampoos and nourishing oils
Avoid tight styles and excessive heat

Support Your Body from the Inside

Eat a balanced diet rich in protein, iron, B-vitamins, and omega-3s
Stay hydrated and get enough rest

Seek Support

Don’t be afraid to talk to a stylist, therapist, or doctor
Early action can prevent long-term thinning

Biological Pathways Linking Stress & Hair Loss

Cortisol Surge: High cortisol disrupts the hair growth cycle and shrinks follicles.
Inflammation: Stress increases pro-inflammatory cytokines, damaging follicles.
Reduced Blood Flow: Stress-induced vasoconstriction limits nutrient delivery to hair follicles.
Oxidative Stress: Free radicals from stress weaken hair cells.

How to Manage Stress-Related Hair Loss

1. Reduce Stress

Mindfulness & Meditation (Yoga, deep breathing exercises which will calm your nervous system, meditation, and journaling,
Therapy (CBT for chronic anxiety or trichotillomania)
Sleep Optimization (7-9 hours to lower cortisol)

2. Support Hair Regrowth

Balanced Diet (Iron, Zinc, Biotin, Protein)
Topical Treatments (Minoxidil, Rosemary Oil)
Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) (Stimulates follicles)

3. Medical Interventions

Blood Tests (Check for deficiencies, thyroid issues)
Prescription Meds (Finasteride for DHT-related loss)
PRP Therapy (Platelet-rich plasma injections)

When to See a Doctor

If shedding lasts longer than 6 months
If you notice patchy bald spots (possible alopecia areata)
If hair loss is accompanied by scalp pain, redness, or scarring

Final Thoughts

Stress-related hair loss is common — and most importantly, it’s often reversible. Once stress levels are managed, your hair can begin to recover. Be gentle with yourself, and remember: hair is important, but your peace is priceless.

Books by Joy White: https://www.amazon.com/author/joywhite

How to Care for Natural Curly Hair
All Things Locs I & II: An Instructional Guide for Loc Care
Mastering Curly Hair: Essential Tips for Parents of Children with Curly Hair
The Hair Revival Blueprint: Techniques to Restore, Repair, & Regrow

JW Salon Styles