As hairdressers, we know that a client’s hair can reveal much about their lifestyle. Stress, often invisible but deeply felt, is a common cause of hair problems. Whether it’s an intense life event or the accumulation of daily pressures, stress can have a direct impact on hair health. Here’s a closer look at how:

1. Hair Loss (Telogen Effluvium)

When stress strikes, one of the most noticeable impacts can be hair loss, specifically a condition known as telogen effluvium. Normally, hair grows in cycles, but stress can push a significant number of hair follicles into the resting phase (telogen) all at once. After two to three months, this can lead to sudden hair shedding, with clients noticing thinning or hair falling out in clumps during brushing or washing. It’s important to remind clients that telogen effluvium is typically temporary, and once the stress is managed, hair should start to grow back over several months. However, addressing underlying causes and recommending products to support healthy growth (like biotin-enriched treatments) can help ease their concerns.

2. Slower Hair Growth

Stress doesn’t just affect hair loss—it can also slow hair growth. This happens because the body under stress redirects energy and resources to vital functions like the heart and brain, deprioritising less essential functions like hair growth. Stress can also disrupt hormonal balance, which directly impacts hair growth cycles. Clients may notice their hair appears thinner, feels weaker, or grows more slowly than usual. You can offer advice on nourishing hair treatments, scalp massages, and dietary tips to stimulate hair follicles and encourage blood flow, helping promote growth even during stressful times.

3. Changes in Hair Texture and Quality

Stress takes a toll not just on the hair’s volume but also on its texture and overall quality. High levels of cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone, can reduce the production of sebum (natural oils) that keep hair hydrated and protected. As a result, clients may find their hair becoming dry, brittle, or prone to breakage and split ends. In some cases, they might also see an increase in frizz or experience changes in how their hair responds to heat styling. As a hairdresser, this is the perfect opportunity to educate clients on the importance of using moisturising hair masks, leave-in conditioners, and heat protectants to restore shine and strengthen stressed-out strands.

4. Scalp Issues

The scalp often reflects what's happening inside the body, and stress can manifest in various scalp conditions. Stress weakens the immune system and triggers inflammation, which can exacerbate scalp problems like dandruff, psoriasis, or an itchy, flaky scalp. Some clients may also develop a condition called seborrheic dermatitis, which causes red, scaly patches on the scalp. A dry or irritated scalp can disrupt the hair growth environment, so regular treatments to maintain scalp health are crucial. Consider offering scalp detox treatments or recommending products containing soothing ingredients like tea tree oil or aloe vera, which can help alleviate discomfort and inflammation.

5. Premature Graying

While it’s long been suspected that stress accelerates graying, recent research supports this connection. Stress is believed to deplete the melanocyte stem cells responsible for producing the pigment that colours hair. As these cells diminish, the hair may lose its colour more quickly than genetics alone would dictate, resulting in premature graying. Though this process is largely irreversible, hairdressers can help clients manage their appearance by suggesting semi-permanent dyes, glosses, or low-maintenance colour treatments to blend grays naturally. Additionally, offering reassurance that this is a normal response to stress can help clients feel more confident and in control.

What Can You Do?

While hairdressers can't directly reduce their clients' stress levels, we can offer advice and services to manage its effects on hair. Encourage clients to practice self-care, which includes nourishing their hair from within through balanced diets rich in vitamins and minerals (like iron, zinc, and vitamin D) that support healthy hair growth. In-salon treatments like scalp massages, deep-conditioning therapies, and protective hairstyles can go a long way in helping clients manage stress-related hair issues. Above all, providing empathy and guidance during times of stress can build trust and help clients feel more in control of their hair health.

Did You Know…? Fascinating Facts for Hairdressers, Part 5: The Impact of Stress on Hair