Most of us know that stress is not good for our bodies, but many people aren’t aware of the effect it can have on our hair and scalp. Maybe you have noticed an increase in hair loss or a flare-up of oily, flaky skin on your scalp. While there may be many reasons why your hair is acting a certain way, stress and anxiety can have a major impact. Here’s why:
Stress can have a big impact on our hormone levels, causing our adrenal glands to produce cortisol. This, in turn, can lead to hair thinning and hair loss. An increase in stress can also cause more oil to be produced in our scalp, possibly leading to flaking and itching. Think of it as a similar reaction to stress that our skin can have!
Another impact that may not be as well known is the reduction in our body’s ability to absorb nutrients and digest our food properly. A nutritionally balanced diet is a key part of keeping your locks healthy and thriving, so if stress is causing you to not eat as well as you normally would or not take in the proper nutrients, this can really start showing in your hair.
High levels of stress can cause us to become more tired and susceptible to illness. When your body is under excess strain, it will often divert its attention and extra energy to your vital organs. Unfortunately, this often means your hair gets left behind! Lack of sleep due to feelings of stress and anxiety can also cause hair and scalp issues. Our sleep is all about repair and restoration, and our locks are no exception.
Stress can also cause a more physical reaction, such as pulling and scratching at your scalp. This can lead to damage to the hair follicles.
When it comes to preventing these effects, it’s all about recognising the signs and managing stress and anxiety levels. Ensure that you do your best to eat a balanced diet and engage in regular exercise. Keeping your body healthy and feeling good really goes a long way to ensuring your hair is doing its best.
If your hair is suffering damage due to increased stress, as well as working towards managing this, it can be a good idea to treat your hair to a little care. Set aside some time for a deep conditioning mask to help nourish your locks and prevent dehydration.