Stress of hair stress

The effect of stress on the health of hair: comprehensive analysis

1. Stress: fundamental understanding

Stress, an integral part of human experience, is a physiological and psychological reaction of the body to any requirements for it. These requirements, known as stressors, can be diverse: from working deadlines and financial problems to personal conflicts and sudden traumatic events. It is important to understand that stress in itself is not always negative. Short -term stress, often called eustress, can stimulate productivity, concentration and motivation. However, chronic, prolonged stress has a destructive effect on various aspects of health, including hair health.

Stress activates a complex network of hormonal and nervous pathways. The key player in this reaction is a hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (GGN) axis. In a collision with a stressful hypothalamus, the area of ​​the brain responsible for the regulation of many body functions is distinguished by corticotropin-rilying-hormone (KRG). KRG stimulates the pituitary gland to the release of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). ACTH, in turn, encourages the adrenal glands located above the kidneys, to the release of cortisol, the main hormone of stress.

Cortisol performs a number of functions aimed at mobilizing the body’s energy resources and suppressing non -critical functions in conditions of stress. It increases blood sugar, suppresses the immune system, reduces inflammation (in the short term) and affects the mood and cognitive functions. While these reactions can be useful in the short term, a chronically increased cortisol level has a detrimental effect on the body, including slowing hair growth, violation of the hair growth cycle and increased hair loss.

2. Anatomy and physiology of hair: Fundamentals for understanding

To understand how stress affects the health of the hair, it is necessary to have a basic understanding of anatomy and physiology of hair. The hair consists of two main parts: a hair follicle located in the skin and a hair rod protruding above the surface of the skin.

Hair follicle is a complex structure in which hair growth occurs. It consists of several layers of cells surrounding the root of the hair. At the base of the follicle there is a dermal papilla, rich in blood vessels and nerves, which provides nutrition and regulates hair growth. The cells of the hair follicle located above the dermal papilla are actively divided and differentiated, forming new hair.

The hair rod consists mainly of keratin, a durable protein that forms a protective layer. The hair rod consists of three layers: cuticles, bark and core (honey). The cuticle, the most outer layer, consists of overlapping scales that protect the hair from damage. The bark, the middle layer, is the main mass of the hair and contains the pigment melanin, which determines the color of the hair. The core, the most inner layer, is not present in all hair and can be empty or contain a small amount of keratin.

The hair growth cycle consists of three main phases: anagen (growth phase), Catagen (phase of regression) and bodyogen (resting phase).

• Anaagen: The phase of active hair growth, which can last from 2 to 7 years, depending on genetics and other factors. During this phase, the cells of the hair follicles are actively divided and formed new hair.
• Catagen: The transition phase, which lasts about 2-3 weeks. During this phase, hair growth slows down, and the hair follicle is reduced.
• Telogen: The dormant phase, which lasts about 3 months. During this phase, hair growth stops, and the old hair remains in the follicle until it is pushed out by a new hair that begins the anagen phase.

Normally, on the person’s head, there are simultaneously hair in different phases of the growth cycle. About 85-90% of the hair are in the anagen phase, 1-2% in the catagen phase and 5-10% in the bodyogen phase. Violation of this balance caused by stress or other factors can lead to hair loss.

3. Mechanisms of exposure to hair stress

Stress affects the health of the hair in several ways, violating the normal hair growth cycle, worsening hair quality and contributing to inflammation of the scalp. Key exposure mechanisms include:

• Telogene loss (Telogen effluvium): This is the most common type of hair loss associated with stress. Stress causes a premature transition of a large amount of hair from the anagen phase (growth) to the heterogene phase (rest). 2-3 months after a stressful event, these hair begins to fall out in large numbers. Telegnum loss is usually temporary, and the hair is restored after eliminating the stressor. However, in cases of chronic stress, heaponal loss can become prolonged. The mechanism consists in the release of cortisol, which affects the regulation of the hair growth cycle, reducing the phase of anagen and lengthening the bodyogen phase. Cortisol can also affect the cells of the dermal papilla responsible for the regulation of hair growth.
• Trichotillomania Trichotillomania: This is an impulsive control disorder, characterized by compulsive hair pulling out. Stress and anxiety can be triggers for the development or exacerbation of trichotyllomania. Egging the hair leads to damage to the hair follicles and can lead to the formation of baldness and thinning of the hair. Trichotyllomania requires psychological assistance and treatment. Patients often experience a sense of relief after pulling out hair, but then experience guilt and shame. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (KPT) is an effective method of treating trichotyllomania.
• Focal alopecia (Alopecia Areata): This is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system attacks the hair follicles, leading to hair loss in the form of rounded foci. Although the exact cause of focal alopecia is unknown, it is believed that stress can be a trigger for its development in genetically predisposed people. Stress can disrupt the function of the immune system, leading to an attack on hair follicles. Other factors, such as genetics and the presence of other autoimmune diseases, also play a role in the development of focal alopecia.
• Hair quality damage: Stress can negatively affect the quality of the hair, making it more dry, brittle and dull. The cortisol, distinguished in response to stress, can disrupt the sebaceous glands of the scalp, leading to a decrease in the production of sebum, which moisturizes and protects the hair. The disadvantage of moisturizing makes the hair more susceptible to damage, such as stripping tips and brittleness. In addition, stress can disrupt the absorption of nutrients necessary for the health of the hair.

4. Hormonal changes and their effect on hair follicles

As mentioned earlier, stress is activated by the GGN axis, leading to increased production of cortisol. However, cortisol is not the only hormone that affects the health of the hair. Other hormonal changes associated with stress can also play a role.

• Cortisol: Cortisol has a direct effect on hair follicles, breaking the hair growth cycle and reducing their quality. It can reduce the anagen phase and renew the heterogene phase, which leads to hair loss. In addition, cortisol can affect the synthesis of keratin, the main protein, of which the hair consists of, making it weaker and brittle.
• Adrenaline and Norepinephrine: These hormones, secreted in response to stress, cause narrowing of blood vessels, including the vessels of the scalp. This can lead to a deterioration in the blood supply to the hair follicles and, therefore, to a decrease in the intake of the nutrients necessary for their growth and health.
• Prolactin: Stress can increase the level of prolactin, hormone, which regulates lactation. An increased level of prolactin can suppress the production of estrogens, hormones that play an important role in maintaining hair health in women.
• Androgens: In some cases, stress can lead to an increase in the production of androgens, male sex hormones, both in men and women. In women, this can lead to androgenic alopecia, the type of hair loss characterized by thinning of hair in the crown area. Androgens, such as dihydrotestosterone (DGT), are associated with receptors in hair follicles and lead to their miniaturization, which leads to thinner and shorter hair.

5. Inflammation and microcirculation of the scalp

Stress can contribute to inflammation of the scalp, which also negatively affects the health of the hair. Chronic inflammation can damage the hair follicles and disrupt their function.

• Inflammatory cytokines: Stress activates the immune system, leading to the release of inflammatory cytokines, such as Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and factor of tumor-alpha necrosis (TNF-α). These cytokines can damage the hair follicles and promote hair loss.
• Violation of microcirculation: Stress causes narrowing of blood vessels of the scalp, which worsens microcirculation and reduces the flow of nutrients to hair follicles. The lack of oxygen and nutrients can lead to a slowdown in hair growth and their thinning.
• Oxidizing stress: Stress increases the production of free radicals that damage the cells of the scalp and hair follicles. Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals and protect the cells from damage.

6. The influence of stress on nutrition and lifestyle

Stress often leads to changes in nutrition and lifestyle, which can also negatively affect hair health.

• Inal meals: In a state of stress, many people are prone to eating unhealthy foods rich in sugar, fats and processed foods. The lack of nutrients, such as protein, iron, zinc, vitamins of group B and vitamin D, can lead to hair loss and deterioration of their quality.
• Lack of sleep: Stress is often accompanied by insomnia, which also negatively affects the health of the hair. During sleep, the restoration and regeneration of body cells, including hair follicles, occurs.
• Alcohol abuse and smoking: Alcohol and smoking have a negative effect on blood vessels and worsen the blood supply to the scalp, which can lead to hair loss. Smoking also increases the production of free radicals and promotes inflammation.
• Neglect of hair care: In a state of stress, people often neglect hair care, which can aggravate the problem of hair loss and worsen their condition.

7. Diagnosis and differential diagnosis of hair loss associated with stress

Diagnosis of hair loss associated with stress requires a thorough collection of an anamnesis, physical examination and additional studies.

• Anamnesis: The doctor will ask questions about the nature of the hair loss, its duration, the presence of concomitant symptoms (for example, itching or peeling of the scalp), as well as the presence of stress factors in the patient’s life. It is important to find out whether there were any recent diseases, operations, childbirth or changes in nutrition.
• Physical examination: The doctor will examine the scalp and hair, appreciate the nature of hair loss (diffuse or focal), the condition of the hair follicles and the presence of inflammation.
• Trichoscopy: This is a non -invasive method of studying the hair and scalp using a special microscope. Trichoscopy allows you to evaluate the condition of hair follicles, hair structure and the presence of scalp diseases.
• Trichogram: This is a method in which a small amount of hair is pulled out of the scalp and is examined under a microscope to determine the hair growth phase. The trichogram can help establish the cause of hair loss and evaluate the effectiveness of treatment.
• Blood tests: Blood tests can be prescribed to exclude other causes of hair loss, such as iron deficiency, thyroid disease or autoimmune diseases.

Differential diagnosis is important to exclude other causes of hair loss, such as:

• Androgenic alopecia: Genetically determined hair loss, which is characterized by thinning of hair in the crown area in men and women.
• Focal alopecia: Autoimmune disease leading to hair loss in the form of rounded foci.
• Fungal scalp infections (cutting lichen): An infection causing itching, peeling and hair loss.
• Medicines: Some drugs, such as antidepressants, anticoagulants and drugs for treating blood pressure, can cause hair loss.
• Thyroid diseases: Hypothyroidism (reduced thyroid function) and hyperthyroidism (increased thyroid function) can lead to hair loss.
• Nutrient deficiency: The deficiency of iron, zinc, vitamin D and other nutrients can cause hair loss.

8. Treatment and control of hair loss associated with stress

Treatment of hair loss associated with stress is aimed at eliminating stress factors, improving the general state of health and stimulating hair growth.

• Stress management: This is the most important aspect of treatment. Stress control methods include:
  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy (KPT): Helps change the negative thoughts and behavior associated with stress.
  • Meditation and yoga: Contribute to relaxation and reduction of stress.
  • Exercise: Improve mood and reduce stress.
  • Sufficient sleep: It is important for restoring the body and reducing stress levels.
  • Hobbies and socialization: They help to distract from stressful situations and improve mood.
• Proper nutrition: Balanced nutrition, rich in protein, iron, zinc, group B vitamins and vitamin D. In some cases, dietary supplements may be important.
• Hair care: Avoid aggressive methods of hair styling, such as frequent use of a hairdryer, ironing or chemical curling. It is important to use soft shampoos and air conditioners, as well as regularly cut the ends of the hair.
• Minoxidil: This is a drug that stimulates hair growth. Minoxidil is available in the form of a solution or foam and applied directly to the scalp. It can be effective in the treatment of heterogeneous loss and androgenic alopecia.
• Corticosteroids: In cases of focal alopecia, corticosteroids in the form of creams, ointments or injections can be prescribed. Corticosteroids suppress the immune system and reduce inflammation in hair follicles.
• Psychotherapy: In cases of trichotyllomania, psychotherapy is necessary aimed at the treatment of impulse control disorders.

9. Prevention of hair loss associated with stress

Prevention of hair loss associated with stress includes:

• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle: Proper nutrition, sufficient sleep, regular physical exercises and rejection of bad habits help strengthen the body and increase its resistance to stress.
• Stress management: It is important to master the methods of stress management and apply them in everyday life.
• Regular hair care: Proper hair care helps maintain their health and prevent damage.
• Timely seeking a doctor: If signs of hair loss appear, it is important to consult a doctor in a timely manner for diagnosis and treatment.

10. The role of diet and food additives in hair health

Food plays a key role in hair health. The lack of certain nutrients can lead to hair loss and a deterioration in their quality.

• Protein: Protein is the main building material for hair. The lack of protein can lead to a slowdown in hair growth and their thinning. Good sources of protein include meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes and nuts.
• Iron: Iron is necessary for transporting oxygen to hair follicles. Iron deficiency is a common cause of hair loss, especially in women. Good sources of iron include red meat, liver, legumes and dark green vegetables.
• Zinc: Zinc plays an important role in the growth and restoration of fabrics, including hair follicles. Zinc deficiency can lead to hair loss and inflammation of the scalp. Good sources of zinc include meat, seafood, nuts and seeds.
• B vitamins B: Group B vitamins, such as biotin, niacin and pantothenic acid, are necessary for hair health. They help transform food into energy and support the normal function of hair follicles. Good sources of group B vitamins include meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, whole grain products and green vegetables.
• Vitamin D: Vitamin D plays an important role in hair growth. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to hair loss. Vitamin D is synthesized in the skin under the influence of sunlight. Good sources of vitamin D include fatty fish, eggs and enriched products.
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and can improve the condition of the scalp and hair. Good sources of omega-3 fatty acids include fatty fish, flaxseed and walnuts.

In some cases, it may take food additives to replenish the deficiency of nutrients. However, before taking food additives, you need to consult a doctor.

11. Alternative methods of treatment and hair care

In addition to traditional methods of treating hair loss, there are alternative methods that can be useful.

• Scalp massage: Scalp massage stimulates blood circulation and improves the flow of nutrients to hair follicles. Massage can be performed independently or contacting a professional massage therapist.
• Aromatherapy: Some essential oils, such as lavender oil, rosemary and cedar, can stimulate hair growth and improve the condition of the scalp. Essential oils can be added to shampoos, air conditioners or used to massage the scalp.
• Ayurveda: Ayurveda, a traditional Indian medicine system, offers various methods of treatment and hair care, based on the use of herbs and vegetable oils.
• Traditional Chinese medicine (TKM): TCM includes acupuncture and the use of herbs to treat hair loss and improve hair health.

It is important to remember that the effectiveness of alternative treatment methods can be different, and before their use it is necessary to consult a doctor.

12. Psychological aspects of hair loss and patient support

Hair loss can have a significant impact on the psychological state of a person. Many people experience a feeling of shame, anxiety, depression and a decrease in self-esteem due to hair loss.

• Psychological support: It is important to provide psychological support to patients suffering from hair loss. This may include consultations with a psychologist or psychotherapist, participation in support groups or obtaining information about hair loss.
• Acceptance and adaptation: It is important to help patients accept and adapt to hair loss. This may include the use of wigs, shinions or other means to mask hair loss.
• Improving self -esteem: It is important to help patients increase their self -esteem and accept themselves as they are.

13. Research and future directions

Studies in the field of hair health continue, and new methods of treatment and prevention of hair loss appear.

• Starry cell research: Stem cells have the ability to differentiate into various types of cells, including hair follicles. Studies of stem cells are aimed at developing treatment methods that could restore damaged hair follicles and stimulate hair growth.
• Gene therapy: Gene therapy involves the introduction of genes into the cells of the body to treat diseases. Genetic therapy studies are aimed at developing methods of treatment of hair loss that could change the genetic code of the cells of the hair follicles and stimulate their growth.
• New drugs: Pharmaceutical companies are developing new drugs for the treatment of hair loss. These drugs are aimed at various mechanisms, such as stimulation of hair growth, suppression of inflammation and blocking the action of androgens.

The future treatment for hair loss looks promising, and we can expect the appearance of new and effective methods of treatment in the coming years.