More than ever, the UK is feeling the strain, with 91% of adults reporting high or extreme levels of stress in the past year, according to recent data.* While many associate stress with burnout or anxiety, fewer realise it can also lead to noticeable hair loss.
For Stress Awareness Month, Dr. Abdulaziz Balwi, leading hair surgeon at Elithair, reveals how stress disrupts the hair growth cycle and what can be done to prevent stress-related shedding.
How can stress lead to hair loss?
“From a clinical standpoint, stress can have a very real and measurable impact on the hair cycle.
“Hair grows in three main phases: anagen (growth), catagen (transition), and telogen (resting). Under significant physical or emotional stress, the body can shift a larger proportion of hair follicles prematurely into the telogen phase. This condition is known as telogen effluvium. Several months after the stressful event, patients often notice increased shedding, particularly when washing or brushing.
“Stress can also contribute to other forms of hair loss. In individuals with a genetic predisposition, it may accelerate androgenetic alopecia. Additionally, stress can disrupt hormonal balance and impair nutrient absorption, both of which are essential for healthy hair growth.
“Hair loss can also intensify the cycle of stress, particularly where it affects confidence and appearance. In our recent survey, nearly 1 in 5 men (19%) said hair loss makes them feel regularly stressed, while more than half (55%) admitted they consistently worry about their hairline, highlighting the significant emotional impact it can have.”
What can you do to avoid stress-related hair loss?
To reduce the risk of stress-related hair loss, the focus should be on both managing stress and supporting the hair cycle:
- Maintain consistent sleep patterns, as poor sleep can exacerbate hormonal imbalance
- Incorporate regular physical activity, which helps regulate stress hormones
- Practise stress management techniques such as mindfulness, breathing exercises, or meditation
- Ensure a balanced diet rich in iron, protein, zinc, and vitamins such as B12 and D
- Avoid crash dieting, which can trigger shedding
- Be gentle with hair care, limiting excessive heat and tight hairstyles that may worsen shedding
- Seek medical advice early if shedding becomes noticeable or prolonged
If stress-related hair loss does occur, it is often reversible once the underlying trigger is addressed. However, early assessment can help rule out other contributing factors and guide appropriate treatment.
Which industries are most at risk of stress-related hair loss?
Work is a leading source of stress, with recent research from the Trades Union Congress finding that 79% of workplace safety representatives identify stress as a major issue in their organisation**.
Sector research also highlights how this pressure is felt most acutely in frontline roles, with doctors and social workers among the most affected, followed by those working in public administration and defence, as well as teachers and other education professionals.
