There are many causes linked to hair loss in men and women, some of which are reversible and can be repaired, allowing the return of healthier hair growth and sustainability. One reversible cause of hair loss, in particular, is stress. This condition is also known as Telogen Effluvium. With this condition, you may start to see an increase in hair shedding three months after a stressful event. Stressful events on the body may include, but are not limited to:
Illness
Childbirth
Surgery
Emotional Stress
Significant weight loss
Fever
Inadequate sleep
Inadequate dietary intake
When you begin to notice stress-induced hair loss, it is essential to identify its cause. Once you identify the root cause, you can work towards a solution.
Solutions to Stress-Induced Hair Loss
Possible solutions may include:
Eating a healthy diet – the best way to do this is to track the foods you eat regularly to determine what you may be lacking.
To prevent further hair loss, it is essential to focus on whole food and a well-balanced diet (fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein).
Over-the-counter supplements – nutritional deficiencies can cause stress-induced hair loss. A health care provider can assist with blood work to see if you lack any of these nutrients (Ferritin, Vitamin D, Zinc, Vitamin B12) and recommend the addition of supplements into your daily routine if necessary.
Managing your stress – learning to manage the stress that you are currently experiencing is not only beneficial in the short term but can also help you cope with stressful situations that may arise in the future. There are many ways you can practice stress management at home, including:
Yoga/Exercise
Meditation
Deep breathing exercises
For most individuals, the effects of stress-induced hair loss can be temporary and reversible. The sooner you can identify the cause, the sooner you can work toward a solution. While managing your stress, it is crucial to remember that it can take 1-3 months for the shedding to stop and up to a year for any hair loss to regrow after the stressor is adequately managed fully.
At Davis Cosmetic Plastic Surgery, Dr. Steven Davis specializes in state-of-the-art processes that help stimulate growth or re-growth of your hair. Please contact our offices to discuss your hair restoration treatment options and how DCPS is here to help.