December 13, 2025 | 11:10 am
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Hair loss is often blamed on aging, genetics, or the use of unsuitable hair care products. However, medical research shows that prolonged emotional or physical stress can also disrupt the body’s natural hair growth cycle, leading to increased shedding. This condition is known as telogen effluvium.
Telogen effluvium occurs when the body responds to intense stress by pushing a large number of hair follicles into the resting, or telogen, phase earlier than normal.
According to the Mayo Clinic and Cleveland Clinic, this disruption affects the usual cycle of hair growth, rest, and shedding.
During periods of high stress, the body releases elevated levels of cortisol and other stress hormones. These hormonal changes can interfere with blood flow and nutrient delivery to hair follicles, slow new hair growth, and accelerate hair shedding.
As a result, hair loss typically becomes noticeable several weeks to months after a stressful event, rather than immediately.
Who Is Most at Risk?
Stress-induced hair loss can affect anyone, but it is more commonly seen among people experiencing sustained pressure, such as working professionals, parents, caregivers, and students.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes stress as a major factor that influences not only mental health but also physical systems, including hormonal balance, skin health, and hair growth.
Common Signs to Watch For
Unlike pattern baldness, telogen effluvium does not cause bald patches. Instead, symptoms include:
Increased hair shedding during washing or brushing
Overall thinning of hair across the scalp
Hair loss that begins weeks after a period of emotional or physical stress
Can Stress-Related Hair Loss Be Reversed?
In most cases, telogen effluvium is temporary. Once stress levels decrease and the body returns to balance, hair growth usually resumes within several months. However, managing stress is key to preventing prolonged or recurring hair loss.
How to Reduce Stress and Support Hair Health
Get enough sleep: Quality sleep helps regulate stress hormones and supports normal hair growth cycles.
Maintain a balanced diet: Nutrients such as iron, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids are essential for hair and nerve function.
Stay physically active: Activities like walking, yoga, and breathing exercises can lower cortisol levels and improve overall well-being.
Seek emotional support: Talking to family, friends, or mental health professionals can help reduce chronic stress.
The Bottom Line
Stress does not only affect the mind; it can also disrupt the body’s natural hair growth process. While stress-related hair loss is usually reversible, maintaining emotional well-being is essential for both mental health and healthy hair.
Read: Can Matcha Cause Iron Deficiency? Expert Explains the Facts
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