While it’s true that hair loss can be caused by a number of reasons, such as your genes, age or a change in diet, one of the biggest reasons for it, is stress.
When we’re stressed, our bodies produce more cortisol, a hormone linked to the body’s natural “fight or flight” response. These excess hormones have been found to disrupt the function and patterns of our hair growth cycle, which in turn contributes to hair thinning or hair loss.
It doesn’t happen overnight though. Instead, it is a gradual decrease, such as noticing that your hair isn’t as thick or lush as it used to be, or your ponytail is getting thinner, or your hair parting looking more obvious than before.
The good news: All is not lost (pun totally intended) because hair loss stemming from increased stress tends to be temporary. This means that a decrease in stress will have your locks growing back.
In the meantime, here’s what you can do to help minimise the loss:
1. Stop pulling your hair back into tight ponytails or buns.
Yes, we know the weather has been scorching hot, but these tight hairdos tug and pull at your hair follicles and over time, can damage and weaken hair.
2. Eat right
If you’re not eating well, your hair is going to feel it. Fuel up on proteins, omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins, from foods like salmon, milk, flaxseeds, berries and almonds.
3. Keep your scalp healthy
After all, your scalp is an extension of the skin on your face. Keep it clean with regular shampooing and when you do, don’t forget to give your scalp a gentle massage to improve blood circulation to the hair follicles to keep them in good health.
Read on to find out about the six at-home haircare treatments to safeguard your hair.