Is Stress Making Your Hair Fall Out? Find the Root Cause and the Right Treatment

Hair loss is more common than many people think, and one big trigger behind it is stress. If you've been noticing more hair falling out lately—on your pillow, in the shower, or when brushing—it’s natural to wonder what’s causing it. Could stress really be the reason?

The short answer is yes. Stress-related hair loss is a real thing, and the good news is—it’s usually temporary. In this blog, we’ll break down how stress causes hair shedding, how to spot the signs, and what you can do to manage it.

What Is Stress-Related Hair Loss?

Understanding the Link Between Stress and Hair

When you're under a lot of stress—emotionally or physically—your body goes into survival mode. One of the responses is an increase in cortisol, the stress hormone. This hormone affects your body in many ways, including pushing your hair follicles into the resting phase of the hair growth cycle. After a few months, that hair falls out, all at once.

This condition is called telogen effluvium. It usually happens 2 to 3 months after a stressful event, like:

• Losing a loved one

• Illness or surgery

• Job loss or burnout

• Emotional trauma

• Rapid weight loss

  
  

Signs Your Hair Loss Is From Stress

Not sure if your shedding is stress-related? Here are some common signs:

1. Hair Loss Happens Months After a Stressful Event

Stress-related shedding often doesn’t happen right away. Hair usually starts falling out 2–3 months after the event.

2. No Clear Bald Spot

Unlike conditions like alopecia or pattern baldness, stress hair loss doesn’t create bald patches. It shows up as diffuse shedding, meaning hair falls out all over the scalp, not in one spot.

3. Excess Hair Everywhere

You may notice more strands on your brush, in the shower, on your pillow, or even on your clothes.

4. It’s Gradual and Temporary

With telogen effluvium, the hair loss may last for 3 to 6 months. After that, it often slows down and regrows—as long as the stress is reduced.

How to Manage and Treat Stress-Related Hair Loss

The first step to recovery is calming your stress levels. Here’s what you can do:

Identify the Root Cause

Try to pinpoint what triggered your stress—grief, work, illness—and start working through it. Support from friends, a therapist, or health professionals can help.

Improve Your Daily Routine

• Get enough sleep – Aim for 7–9 hours a night. Lack of rest increases cortisol.

• Eat a healthy diet – Focus on iron, protein, zinc, and vitamin D. These are key for hair growth.

• Exercise regularly – Movement reduces stress hormones and boosts circulation.

• Be gentle with your hair – Avoid tight hairstyles, rough brushing, and harsh products.

  
  

Consider Hair-Friendly Treatments

Talk to a specialist about options like:

• Topical treatments (like minoxidil)

• Nutritional supplements

• Laser therapy

• Scalp massages to boost blood flow

  
  

At Restore Hair Loss and Scalp Clinic, we offer personalized consultations to help you figure out what’s causing your hair loss and the best treatment options for you.

Preventing Stress-Related Hair Shedding

Self-Care and Stress Management Tips:

• Practice mindfulness, yoga, or deep breathing

• Stay connected to loved ones

• Don’t skip meals or go on crash diets

• Make time for things you enjoy

• Stick to a consistent sleep schedule

• Schedule regular check-ins with your doctor

  
  

Other Causes of Hair Loss to Consider

Not all hair loss is caused by stress. Some other factors to explore:

• Genetic conditions like androgenetic alopecia

• Hormonal changes, especially in women

• Nutritional deficiencies (like low iron or vitamin D)

• Thyroid disorders

• Medications and autoimmune diseases

  
  

That’s why a proper diagnosis is so important. Our team at Restore Hair Loss and Scalp Clinic offers detailed scalp assessments and lab work to identify what’s really going on.

FAQs: Can Stress Really Cause Hair Loss? How to Identify and Manage Stress-Related Shedding

Will my hair grow back if it’s falling out because of stress?

Yes, in most cases, stress-related hair loss is temporary. Once your body’s stress levels go down, your hair growth cycle can reset, and your hair will start growing back.

How long does it take for hair to grow back after stress?

Hair regrowth after telogen effluvium can take 6 to 9 months. Be patient and focus on managing your stress and improving your overall health.

What does stress hair loss look like in women?

Women may notice thinning on the crown or top of the head. Hair may fall out more easily when brushing or washing. It doesn’t usually cause a receding hairline.

Can anxiety cause hair loss too?

Yes. Chronic anxiety increases stress hormones like cortisol, which can lead to hair shedding. Getting anxiety under control can help reduce hair loss.

How do I know if my hair is really thinning or if I’m overthinking it?

Try tracking how much hair you lose in a day for 3 days. If the number is much higher than normal (about 50–100 hairs per day), it could be a real issue. A consultation at our clinic can help clear up any doubts.

FAQs About Restore Hair Loss and Scalp Clinic

What services do you offer for stress-related hair loss?

We offer full Hair and Scalp Analysiss, personalized treatment plans, nutritional guidance, and advanced therapies to help with stress-related and other types of hair loss.

Do I need a referral to visit Restore Hair Loss and Scalp Clinic?

No referral is needed. You can book a consultation directly with us through our website or by calling our clinic.

How can I book a consultation?

Visit our website to book an appointment online, or give us a call. We’re here to help guide you every step of the way.

Can you help if I have more than one reason for my hair loss?

Absolutely. Many people experience hair loss due to a mix of reasons—stress, hormones, diet, or health conditions. Our expert team will look at all the factors and create a customized plan for you.

Final Thoughts

Stress can take a real toll on your hair—but it doesn’t have to be permanent. If you think stress might be behind your shedding, take a breath and know you’re not alone. By understanding the signs, caring for your body, and seeking the right support, you can take back control of your hair and health.

Need help with hair loss? Reach out to Restore Hair Loss and Scalp Clinic for expert support and proven treatments that help your hair heal and grow.

BOOK A CONSULTATION HERE