Is Hair Loss More Stressful This Time Of Year

Hair loss in Winter

Hair Tattoo is often asked “why does my hair seem to fall out more in winter, Stress and weather conditions are closely connected to why it is more noticeable that hair loss is more common in winter months

You can experience hair loss when you’re going through a situation where your stress levels are increased.  This could include things like experiencing pressure at work, living a hectic lifestyle, having a new baby or even losing someone close to you. Hair loss might not be immediate though, and it may occur 6 or even 12 months after the stressful episode.

How does it affect hair growth? Stress can produce increased levels of testosterone, which converts to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and interrupts the hair’s growth cycle.

Stress also constricts blood supply through the capillaries, restricting oxygen, nutrient uptake and vitamins to the follicle. If you notice hair thinning, or feel you are going through a stressful period in your life, take preventative steps by finding the right treatment for your hair needs.

Nutrition and diet

Healthy hair grows from within so our diet can play a significant role in hair loss. The hair grows from the scalp by absorbing vitamins and nutrients that are obtained through what we eat.

Following a healthy balanced diet also ensures healthy hair, however we know that people might adopt restrictive diets for various reasons. Supplements can help if you think you’re not getting all the nutrients the hair needs, such as zinc, iron, biotin or vitamin B & D

Health concerns or medication

Hair thinning can be a result of several health concerns, such as thyroid conditions, natural hormonal changes that women experience after pregnancy or during menopause. It can also be a side effect of certain medications. The hair follicle is incredibly sensitive to changes in the body. Any hormone therapy (including birth control) can contribute to hair thinning as can steroids, specific chemotherapies and medication for blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease and acne.

If you are worried about hair loss it’s always best to consult your doctor. A medical professional will be able to diagnose or treat the condition that’s causing hair loss. It’s also recommended to speak to a hairdresser who can provide a cosmetic solution to hair thinning, to help ease some of the related emotional concerns associated with hair loss. 

Environmental factors of thinning hair

It may sound surprising but the elements in our surrounding environment can also affect the hair. Air and water pollutants, chlorine, metals and minerals may be left on the scalp and hair therefore contributing to thinning. Pollutants such as pseudo-oestrogens and toxins from within our bodies are also a contributing factor.

Sun exposure can also lead to hair loss, especially when the hair is thinner already leaving the scalp exposed.

A healthy scalp means healthy hair so if your scalp gets sunburn, the hair in turn will also suffer. The sun can also damage the hair by weakening its structure, so it’s important to apply products that contain SPF to your hair just as you would to the rest of your body.

If you would like any further help, feel free to call us at Hair Tattoo