Disclaimer: This is a paid guest post.
I’ve blogged before about the many different reasons for hair loss-but if you’ve noticed your hair thinning recently, it’s important to think whether stress might play a part too?
We all need to work to pay the rent or mortgage but sometimes the stresses caused by today’s high-pressure culture can take their toll on your health. Hair loss can also occur after due to nutritional deficiencies, illness or scalp infections and, in the case of men, the chance of your going bald is also influenced by your genetic heritage.
When stress causes hair loss
There are 3 distinct types of hair loss can be caused by stress:
• Telogen effluvium
Stress can sometimes push your hair follicles into their “resting phase” – a few months later you will start to notice more hair on your hairbrush or in the shower plughole after washing your hair.
• Trichotillomania
This type of hair loss occurs when people feel an overwhelming urge to pull out hair from their scalp or eyebrows and is strongly associated with stress.
• Alopecia areata
In this condition, the hair follicles are attacked by the body’s own immune system and this causes hair loss – sometimes quite sudden.
Can hair loss due to stress be treated?
Luckily, these types of hair loss are not necessarily permanent and various hair loss treatments are available; as well as considering the underlying issues which can sometimes bring it to light.
There are cosmetic and medical treatments. Such as Minoxidil- a lotion that is available over the counter without the need for a prescription. Whilst Finasteride is a prescription-only drug. However, whilst speaking to your GP is vital, for those who struggle to find an appointment- there are some online registered Pharmacy to ensure that you are getting the highest quality products, such as online pharmacy is Oxford Online Pharmacy.
Try stress reduction first
However, the above should be a last resort. If your job or lifestyle is causing you so much stress that you are suffering hair loss, this can be seen as a warning sign that you should try to get things under control. A few simple changes in your lifestyle will help you to relax and boost your general health- and hopefully prevent future hair loss
Build regular exercise into your day :If you can’t make time for a workout at the gym, try following quick youtube videos or simply walking the dogs!
Make sure you get enough sleep: sleep deprivation will make stress worse so try switching off all screens for at least two hours before bedtime, keep your bedroom dark and at around 15 – 18 degrees. Lavender sprays can also help!
• Eat healthily Avoid too many takeaways and make sure you include plenty of fruit, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein in your diet. Lots of sugar can cause blood sugar spikes which add to stress.
• Try relaxation techniques Meditation or yoga can all help you to cope with the stresses of daily life.
