How Stress Can Affect Hair loss
Stress comes in many shapes, styles and forms. Some individuals see every day as a blessing and have little to no stress, while others dread opening their front doors. No matter what may stress you, the stress itself is never good for your hair. This is not ‘hair stress’ I am referring to, but actual ‘life stress’. Hair stress is physical stress exerted on the hair through the use of combs, hands and trimming devices. Life stress is exactly that; stress associated with every day occurrences.
What does this have to do with hair loss and hair transplants? More than you may know. Stress due to everyday life, illness, medication and physical stimulus can cause changes in the normal cycle of hair growth. Hair grows on a natural cycle that is regulated by one’s own body. When higher-than-normal stress accumulates, it may cause hair (more often than not, the hair on the top of the head) to enter the resting phase of the hair growth cycle. This rest segment of the cycle is called the Telogen phase. During the telogen phase hair is shed allowing for fresh, new hair to grow. The shedding of hair is called Effluvium. It is normal for hair to rest, for hair to be shed, and for hair to regrow.
The problem arises when the natural hair growth cycle becomes erratic or the periods are unbalanced in what is called Telogen Effluvium; where the rest period is entered into by large numbers of hair. In addition to too many hairs being at rest, hairs begin to shed more frequently without begin replenished soon enough – if at all. The effects of telogen effuvium are usually temporary, subsiding when the stress is reduced or removed. If you live in high stress consistently or you are naturally prone to stress, finding ways to reduce your stress levels can not only help your hair, but help you have a better, more satisfying life. This will help prevent your body from becoming acclimated to high-stress and making the negative change in your hair growth cycle permanent. If you feel it’s too late or you want to know more about your situation, contact us for a free consultation.
