How stress affects your hair, according to a renowned dermatologist

While "lifestyle" was rarely seen as a factor in overall health, the tide has clearly turned. Although diet, sleep, sun exposure and other factors all play a part, stress has proven to be a powerful element, explains dermatologist Heather Woolery-Lloyd, who is board-certified in dermatology and lifestyle medicine. "Many studies have shown that lifestyle choices — stress, diet, sleep, exercise and more — can significantly affect the health of your skin and hair and influence skin ageing."

She says that if her clinical practice is anything to go by, stress is one of the most significant factors because of its effect on inflammation throughout the body. "When we're stressed, our body releases cytokines and hormones like cortisol that increase inflammation, which can trigger and worsen many inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, acne and seborrhoeic dermatitis," says Woolery-Lloyd. "An increase in inflammatory cytokines (molecules our immune system uses to help cells communicate) can worsen hair and scalp conditions. Cortisol can do the same."

Here, she discusses the evidence that stress can contribute to changes in the hair and skin — from premature ageing and dark circles to hair loss — and describes strategies for managing stress in her patients, as well as ways to deal with the inflammation stress seems to cause.

SKIN AND HAIR SYMPTOMS

Although Woolery-Lloyd says it is often a combination of lifestyle factors that affects skin health, research has identified stress as a major contributor. One study surveyed 5,000 university students to investigate the relationship between stress and skin. "Students with higher stress levels were more likely to report skin symptoms such as itching, dryness, flaking, hair loss, rashes, excessive sweating and trichotillomania," says Woolery-Lloyd.

HAIR LOSS

Stress has long been implicated as a contributing factor in hair loss. "Telogen effluvium is a common cause of temporary hair loss, and it is often triggered by severe stress," says Woolery-Lloyd. "In telogen effluvium, stress pushes hair follicles into a resting phase, leading to excessive shedding 6 to 12 months later." So one of the first questions she asks when a patient notices increased thinning is about recent stressful events.

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1. Stronger hair: Corsican Immortelle, vitamin E and the combination of argan, coconut and jojoba oils help strengthen the hair structure, helping prevent breakage and hair loss.
2. Antioxidant action: Thanks to its powerful antioxidants, it fights free radicals and protects the hair from external aggressors such as pollution and UV.
3. Regenerating care: Immortelle stimulates blood circulation in the scalp, encouraging healthy, faster hair growth.

An anti-stress diet: Choose a diet rich in B vitamins, zinc, iron and omega-3s, such as nuts, leafy greens, fish and dried fruit. These nutrients support hair health and strengthen the scalp's resistance.

Regular exercise: Physical activity, even moderate — walking, Pilates or any sport you enjoy — improves blood circulation and oxygenation of the scalp, contributing to healthy hair.

Scalp massage: Regular scalp massage stimulates circulation and reduces muscle tension. Use a few drops of Corsican Immortelle oil during the massage to boost the benefits and stimulate the scalp.

Restorative sleep: Good-quality sleep is essential for cell regeneration. Getting enough sleep helps reduce stress and maintain — or regain — thicker, healthier hair.

Relaxation practices: Meditation, deep breathing and yoga reduce stress and lower cortisol levels. Practised regularly, they support overall well-being and lessen the impact of stress on the body.

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STRESS, DIVORCE AND BARRIER REPAIR

Dermatologist Woolery-Lloyd cites a "truly unique" study that looked at the effects of divorce on the skin. "Researchers tested a group of women going through a divorce and compared their skin barrier strength and recovery with a group of women who described themselves as 'happy'," she says. "The researchers found that the divorcing group had delayed skin recovery after tape stripping. Stress significantly slowed how quickly their skin could repair itself after damage. Similar results were reported in a study of medical, dental and pharmacy students, whose barrier recovery was reduced during final exams."

SLEEP

Stress can of course interfere with sleep, and lack of sleep can certainly affect the hair and scalp. When researchers photographed participants after a normal night's sleep and again after 31 hours of sleep deprivation, untrained observers rated the photos of the sleep-deprived individuals as looking less healthy, less attractive and more tired.

Maree Haircare's Corsican Immortelle Infused Hair Oil™ is a must-have for anyone who wants to bring their hair back to life. Thanks to its powerful natural ingredients, it is an ideal solution for stronger, shinier, healthier hair. Give your hair the best of Corsican nature with Maree Haircare!

Sources: Goop Beauty & Dr Heather MD