What Causes Hair to Fall out When Stressed?

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Hair loss can be a distressing condition, and stress is a significant factor that many people may not fully understand in relation to this issue. When we experience stress, our bodies go through a series of complex physiological changes that can have a direct impact on the health of our hair. In this article, we will explore in detail the mechanisms through which stress can lead to hair loss.

The Hair Growth Cycle and Stress Impact

An Overview of the Hair Growth Cycle

The hair growth cycle consists of three main phases: anagen, catagen, and telogen. The anagen phase is the active growth phase, during which the hair follicle produces new hair cells and the hair shaft elongates. This phase can last for several years. The catagen phase is a short transitional period, usually lasting only a few weeks, during which the hair follicle shrinks. Finally, the telogen phase is the resting phase, where the hair remains in the follicle until it is shed and a new hair begins to grow. Under normal circumstances, about 10 – 15% of our hair is in the telogen phase at any given time.

How Stress Disrupts the Hair Growth Cycle

Telogen Effluvium: Stress can cause a large number of hair follicles to prematurely enter the telogen phase. This condition is known as telogen effluvium. When this happens, the normal balance of the hair growth cycle is disrupted. Instead of the usual small percentage of hair being in the resting phase, a much higher proportion of hairs can be affected. For example, a significant life event such as the loss of a loved one, a job change, or a serious illness can trigger this response. The body’s stress response system perceives these events as threats and redirects resources, which can impact the hair follicles.

Delayed Anagen Onset: Stress can also delay the start of the anagen phase. This means that new hair growth is postponed, and the hair follicles remain in a state of inactivity for longer than normal. As a result, the overall density of the hair may decrease over time, as there is a lag in the production of new hair strands.

Hormonal Changes Caused by Stress and Their Effect on Hair

The Role of Cortisol

Cortisol Production: When we are stressed, our bodies release the hormone cortisol. Cortisol is known as the “stress hormone” and is produced by the adrenal glands. In the short term, cortisol helps the body respond to stress by increasing blood sugar levels and suppressing the immune system. However, chronic stress can lead to elevated levels of cortisol over an extended period.

Cortisol’s Impact on Hair Follicles: High levels of cortisol can have a negative impact on the hair follicles. It can interfere with the normal function of the hair growth cycle by affecting the communication between the follicle cells. Cortisol can also disrupt the balance of other hormones in the body that are crucial for hair health. For example, it can affect the levels of androgens, such as testosterone, which play a role in hair growth. An imbalance in androgens can lead to hair follicles shrinking and producing thinner, weaker hair strands.

Thyroid Hormone Imbalance

Stress and the Thyroid Gland: Chronic stress can also affect the thyroid gland, which is responsible for producing hormones that regulate metabolism. Stress can disrupt the normal function of the thyroid, leading to either an overactive or underactive thyroid. In both cases, this can have consequences for hair health.

Thyroid – Related Hair Loss: An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) can cause hair to become dry, brittle, and prone to falling out. This is because the thyroid hormones are essential for maintaining the normal growth and metabolism of the hair follicles. On the other hand, an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) can also lead to hair loss, as it speeds up the body’s metabolism, including the hair growth cycle, causing hair to be shed prematurely.

Nutritional Deficiencies Linked to Stress – Induced Hair Loss

Impact on Digestive System

Stress and Digestion: Stress can affect the digestive system, reducing the absorption of nutrients. When we are stressed, the body diverts blood flow away from the digestive organs to other areas, such as the muscles, in preparation for a “fight – or – flight” response. This can lead to decreased production of digestive enzymes and a slower movement of food through the intestines.

Nutrient Absorption Issues: As a result of these digestive disruptions, the body may not be able to absorb essential nutrients properly. For example, iron, zinc, and biotin are crucial for healthy hair growth. Iron is involved in the production of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen to the hair follicles. Zinc is necessary for the repair and growth of hair tissue, and biotin helps in the metabolism of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates related to hair health. A deficiency in these nutrients due to stress – related digestive problems can contribute to hair loss.

Increased Nutrient Requirements During Stress

Metabolic Demands: Stress also increases the body’s metabolic demands. During times of stress, the body needs more energy and nutrients to cope with the physiological changes. However, if the diet does not provide sufficient amounts of these essential nutrients, the hair follicles may be deprived. For instance, vitamins such as vitamin C, which is important for collagen production in the hair follicles, and the B – vitamin complex, which is involved in various metabolic processes related to hair growth, may be in short supply. This can lead to weakened hair strands and increased hair shedding.

Scalp Inflammation and Blood Flow Changes Due to Stress

Inflammatory Response

Stress – Induced Inflammation: Stress can trigger an inflammatory response in the body, including the scalp. The body’s immune system may become overactive during stress, releasing inflammatory mediators. On the scalp, this inflammation can affect the hair follicles directly. It can disrupt the normal environment of the follicles, interfering with the supply of nutrients and oxygen.

Impact on Hair Follicles: Inflammatory conditions on the scalp can cause the hair follicles to become damaged or even miniaturized. This can lead to hair becoming thinner and more likely to fall out. For example, conditions like seborrheic dermatitis, which can be exacerbated by stress, can cause redness, itching, and flaking of the scalp, all of which can negatively impact hair health.

Blood Flow Alterations

Vascular Changes: Stress can cause changes in blood flow throughout the body, including the scalp. When stressed, blood vessels may constrict, reducing the amount of blood reaching the hair follicles. This decrease in blood flow means that the follicles receive less oxygen and essential nutrients.

Hair Follicle Health: Over time, the reduced blood supply can impair the function of the hair follicles. The hair may become weaker and more prone to breakage and shedding. Adequate blood flow is crucial for maintaining the health of the hair follicles, as it delivers the necessary building blocks for hair growth.

Conclusion

Stress – induced hair loss is a complex issue that involves multiple physiological mechanisms. From disrupting the hair growth cycle to causing hormonal imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, scalp inflammation, and changes in blood flow, stress can have far – reaching consequences for the health of our hair. Understanding these causes is the first step in managing and potentially preventing stress – related hair loss. By addressing stress through relaxation techniques, maintaining a balanced diet, and taking care of the scalp, we can help to mitigate the negative impact of stress on our hair and promote healthy hair growth. It’s important to remember that if hair loss persists or is severe, it’s advisable to seek medical advice to rule out other underlying conditions.

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