Stress is something everyone experiences at some point, but did you know it can also show up in your hair? From hair shedding and thinning to premature graying and scalp issues, stress can have a significant impact on your hair health. Here’s an in-depth look at how stress can affect your hair, supported by insights from dermatologists and trichologists.
Hair Loss & Thinning (Telogen Effluvium)
One of the most common ways stress affects hair is through a condition known as Telogen Effluvium. This occurs when stress pushes hair follicles prematurely into the resting phase (Telogen) of the hair growth cycle. Normally, hair follicles go through four phases: Anagen (growth), Catagen (transition), Telogen (resting), and Exogen (shedding). Under stress, an increase in cortisol—our primary stress hormone—can cause a larger-than-normal percentage of hair follicles to enter the Telogen phase at once, resulting in noticeable hair shedding.
Dr. Alan J. Bauman, a board-certified hair restoration physician, states, “Stress can significantly disrupt the normal hair growth cycle. When the body experiences stress, it can force hair into the shedding phase prematurely. This results in excessive hair loss, but the good news is that with stress management and proper hair care, this shedding can be minimized.”
Gray Hair (Premature Graying)
You’ve likely heard the myth that stress causes gray hair, and research is showing there’s some truth to it. While genetics play a significant role in when and how our hair turns gray, stress can accelerate the process. A 2020 Harvard study found that the body’s fight-or-flight response (triggered during stress) can release certain chemicals that affect the cells responsible for producing the pigment in your hair follicles. Over time, these cells can lose their ability to produce pigment, leading to the appearance of gray hair.
Additionally, some research suggests that by reducing stress, it might be possible to slow down or even reverse premature graying. A Columbia University study hinted that managing stress could potentially give pigment-producing cells the chance to regenerate, possibly restoring hair color.
Changes In Scalp
Stress doesn’t just affect your hair—it can also wreak havoc on your scalp. Conditions like seborrheic dermatitis and neurodermatitis often flare up during stressful times. Seborrheic dermatitis occurs when the sebaceous glands on your scalp overproduce oil (sebum), leading to flaky, itchy patches on the scalp. This condition is often aggravated by stress, which can trigger an inflammatory response in the skin.
Similarly, neurodermatitis, which is characterized by intense itching and scratching, can become more severe during periods of stress. Scratching or rubbing the scalp in response to stress-induced itching can damage the skin, leading to further irritation and even infections.
Dr. Ava Shamban, a dermatologist based in Beverly Hills, says, “Stress is a known trigger for scalp inflammation and flare-ups of conditions like seborrheic dermatitis. During stressful periods, the immune system can overreact, leading to excessive oil production and irritated skin on the scalp. These flare-ups can contribute to further scalp problems if not addressed properly.”
TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR HAIR WELLNESS FROM STRESS
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Prioritize Quality Sleep: Poor sleep increases stress hormones, which can negatively impact hair follicles. Aim for 7-9 hours of rest each night.
- Practice Mindfulness: Techniques like meditation, deep breathing, and yoga have been shown to reduce stress and regulate hormonal imbalances that affect hair health.
- Exercise Regularly: Physical activity helps lower cortisol levels and improves blood circulation to the scalp, ensuring follicles receive adequate oxygen and nutrients.
- Eat a Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in protein, iron, omega-3s, and antioxidants provides the essential nutrients your hair needs to stay strong and healthy.
- Hydrate & Limit Caffeine: Dehydration and excessive caffeine intake can exacerbate stress and lead to dry, brittle hair. Drink plenty of water to support scalp hydration.
- Gentle Scalp Care: Avoid harsh hair treatments and use soothing scalp serums or massaging tools to promote relaxation and circulation.
HOW LADUORA DUO CAN HELP
To complement these efforts, using Laduora DUO can further enhance scalp vitality and hair strength. This multi-technology device combines Red Light Therapy, Gentle Microcurrent, Scalp Massage, and Therapeutic Warmth to:
- Improve blood circulation, ensuring follicles receive vital nutrients
- Stimulate and energize follicles, promoting healthier, thicker hair
- Soothe scalp tension, helping to relax stress-related tightness
- Support overall scalp wellness, creating an optimal environment for hair growth
For even better results, pair Laduora DUO device with targeted Hair Serum Pods designed for your specific needs. 
Stress can have a profound impact on your hair health, but understanding its effects can help you take the right steps to manage it. Dr. Ava notes, “Managing stress and taking care of your scalp are essential in maintaining healthy hair. With the right support and the use of tools like the Laduora Duo, it’s possible to fight back against stress-related hair issues and improve the health of your scalp.”
