Stress can affect your hair, but not always in the way people expect. Hair loss linked to stress usually shows up as shedding a couple of months or more after a stressful period, and it is often temporary. This guide explains how stress affects hair, the types of hair loss linked to it, and what helps.
How stress affects hair
Significant physical or emotional stress can push a large number of hair follicles out of the growth phase and into the resting phase at the same time. Those hairs then shed together a couple of months or more later. This is called telogen effluvium, and it is the most common way stress affects hair. See telogen effluvium.
Physical stresses, such as a high fever, surgery, major illness, childbirth or rapid weight loss, are especially common triggers. Emotional stress, such as a bereavement, a breakup or a very demanding period at work, can also contribute.
Other types of hair loss linked to stress
- Alopecia areata. An autoimmune condition causing round, smooth bald patches. Stress may be one of several factors associated with flares. It needs in-person evaluation.
- Trichotillomania. A condition involving a strong urge to pull out one's own hair, often linked to stress or anxiety. Support from a mental health professional can help.
- Unmasking pattern hair loss. A stress-related shed can make gradual pattern hair loss more noticeable. See TE vs androgenetic alopecia.
What helps
- Look for other triggers too. Stress often comes with poor sleep, diet changes or illness. A doctor may check iron and thyroid levels.
- Support your overall health. Adequate protein, iron and calories, and regular sleep.
- Manage stress where you can. Exercise, rest, social support and professional help if stress or anxiety feels overwhelming.
- Be gentle with your hair to limit breakage while it recovers.
- Give it time. Stress-related shedding is often temporary, and new growth is slow to show. See how long telogen effluvium lasts.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if you have patchy bald spots, scalp pain or scarring, shedding that continues for many months, or other symptoms such as fatigue, weight change or palpitations. If stress, low mood or anxiety are affecting your daily life, reach out to a doctor or mental health professional. Your wellbeing matters more than your hair.
Next step
If you want a licensed provider to review your hair loss, start your online consultation.
Prescription required for prescription treatment. A licensed provider decides whether treatment is appropriate. Individual results vary. Prescribed Essence currently serves patients in California, Colorado, Florida and New York.
