Stress and Hair Loss: Are They Related?

Stress has become an all too typical aspect of our lives in our fast-paced and demanding environment. Stress, whether from work-related pressures, personal issues, or simply the daily grind, can have a significant impact on our general well-being. Hair loss is an unexpected side effect of persistent stress. Although it may appear unconnected, many individuals are unaware of a strong link between stress and hair loss. 

This blog is created on the insights shared by a renowned dermatologist, Dr. Nivedita Dadu who is widely known for providing the best hair fall treatment in Delhi. Here, we'll look at the complex relationship between stress and hair loss, as well as the underlying mechanisms and potential treatment solutions.

Hair Growth Cycle

To grasp the relationship between stress and hair loss, one must first understand the hair development cycle. Hair growth has three stages:

• Anagen Phase: This is the active growth phase of hair follicles, during which new hair cells are produced. It usually lasts from two to six years.
• Catagen Phase: The hair follicles shrink and detach from the blood supply during the catagen phase. It lasts approximately two weeks.
• Telogen Phase: Also known as the resting phase, the hair follicles are dormant for three months. During the anagen phase, existing hairs fall out to make place for new hair.

Is Hair Loss Caused by Stress?

While it is typical to shed 50-100 hair per day, excessive shedding or visible thinning can be cause for concern. Telogen effluvium, or stress-induced hair loss, disturbs the hair development cycle by prematurely pushing hairs into the telogen (resting) phase, resulting in excessive shedding. Here's how stress can cause hair loss:

• Hormonal Imbalance: Stress causes the release of stress hormones like cortisol, which can disrupt the delicate hormonal balance essential for good hair development. Elevated cortisol levels can disrupt the hair growth cycle, resulting in hair loss.
• Reduced Nutrient Supply: Long-term stress can impair the body's capacity to absorb and use critical nutrients for hair development. Changes in the digestive system caused by stress can decrease nutritional absorption, depriving hair follicles of essential vitamins and minerals required for healthy hair.
• Inflammation: Prolonged stress can cause chronic inflammation, which can harm the health of the hair follicles. Inflammation interrupts the natural functioning of the hair growth cycle and can result in hair follicle shrinking, resulting in thinner, weaker hair strands.
• Trichotillomania: Trichotillomania is a psychological condition caused by stress. Individuals with this illness experience an uncontrollable impulse to pull out their hair, resulting in visible hair loss in certain locations.

Handling of Stress-Related Hair Loss

Recognizing the link between stress and hair loss is the first step toward effective treatment. Here are some methods for dealing with stress and promoting healthy hair growth:

• Stress Reduction Practices: Incorporate stress management practices into the daily routine, such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, or regular physical activity. 
• Balanced Diet: To promote healthy hair development, consume a nutritious diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins. Include leafy greens, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains in your daily diet.
• Scalp Care: Keep the scalp clean and moisturized to maintain healthy scalp hygiene. Use gentle shampoos and avoid using heavy heat styling or harsh chemical treatments on hair, which can cause more damage.
• Seek Expert Assistance: If one is experiencing considerable hair loss or are having difficulty managing stress on their own, speak with a hair expert or dermatologist. They can offer advice, assess underlying problems, and suggest relevant treatments.

To get assistance from a renowned and skilled dermatologist who has ample years of experience in managing hair fall and hair loss-related problems. One can consult Dr. Nivedita Dadu, the renowned dermatologist in Delhi. 

She can be consulted at Dadu Medical Centre in Delhi, which has two centers: Rajouri Garden (West Delhi) and Vasant Vihar (South Delhi). 

Visit now to gain more information!