Stress is a significant factor contributing to hair loss, second only to genetics. It can lead to various inflammatory responses in the scalp and hair, causing conditions like telogen effluvium, trichotillomania, and alopecia areata. Here’s a closer look at these conditions:
- Telogen Effluvium: This is a common cause of temporary hair loss where stress pushes hair follicles into a resting phase, hindering new hair growth. As a result, individuals may experience significant hair shedding during regular activities such as washing or combing. Other contributing factors can include poor nutrition, infections, surgeries, hormonal changes, and certain medications. Telogen effluvium can be acute (lasting less than six months) or chronic (lasting longer), with symptoms typically involving increased hair loss without additional signs like rashes or itching.
- Trichotillomania: Known as hair-pulling disorder, this condition arises from chronic stress and anxiety. It involves pulling hair from the scalp, face, or other body parts, often leading to visible bald spots and significant emotional distress. Treatment options include medication and behavioral therapy to help manage the disorder.
- Alopecia Areata: This autoimmune disorder occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, resulting in sudden patchy hair loss. While hair may regrow, it can also fall out again. Genetics may predispose individuals to this condition, with stress and illness often acting as triggers.
Fortunately, stress-related hair loss is usually temporary, and hair growth can resume once stress is managed. Here are some simple remedies to help reduce and prevent hair loss:
Simple Remedies to Stop and Prevent Hair Loss
- Meditation and Breathwork: Integrate meditation and breathing exercises into your routine to alleviate stress. Apps like Calm or Headspace offer guided sessions to help you unwind.
- Positive Environment: Create a calming workspace by personalizing it with plants and objects that elevate your mood, positively impacting your mental health.
- Scalp Stimulation: Massage your scalp with hair oil to enhance blood circulation, stimulating hair follicles and potentially promoting growth.
- Tension Release: Engage in muscle-tensing exercises to identify and release areas of stress, replacing anxiety with relaxation.
- Balanced Diet: Maintain a nutrient-rich diet, including iron, vitamin D, and zinc, essential for healthy hair. Consider supplements like Viviscal’s Hair Growth Programme if needed.
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Treatment: This therapy involves injecting concentrated platelets into the scalp to enhance the hair follicle environment and stimulate growth.
- Low-Level Light Therapy: This treatment utilizes low-level light to stimulate protein production in the scalp, potentially strengthening hair and supporting regrowth.
- Positive Activities: Engage in hobbies and activities that bring joy, helping to lower stress levels and mitigate its impact on your hair.
By addressing stress and adopting these remedies, you can reduce hair loss and promote growth even during challenging times.
