There are many different underlying causes of hair loss, which are often interrelated. Stress-induced hair loss is one of the most common triggers, but we must not overlook other types of hair loss, which lead to hair loss through different mechanisms; in every case, however, an accurate diagnosis is essential.

Androgenetic alopecia, or male-pattern hair loss, is also common and is mainly attributable to genetic and hormonal causes. Hair loss can also occur as a side effect of certain medicines, particularly if they affect hormone levels or the body’s metabolism. Hormonal changes – such as pregnancy, childbirth, the menopause or thyroid problems – can also have a significant impact on the condition of the hair.

Identifying the causes of hair loss is essential for selecting the appropriate treatment. As stress-induced hair loss (telogen effluvium), alopecia areata (patchy hair loss), androgenetic alopecia, certain medicines and hormonal changes all require different treatment approaches, it is advisable to consult a specialist to identify the true cause of the hair loss and find the most effective solution.

Contrary to popular belief, stress is not linked to the development of male-pattern hair loss, or androgenetic alopecia, as this condition is primarily caused by genetic factors. Male baldness follows an easily recognisable pattern, characterised by a receding hairline and, in later stages, balding on the crown of the head.

Stress, on the other hand, can trigger telogen effluvium or exacerbate the condition. This type of hair loss is a form of temporary hair loss, manifesting as hair loss affecting the entire scalp. During telogen effluvium, the hair becomes thinner and falls out.

Excessive stress can also cause a worsening of trichotillomania, a mental condition characterised by compulsive hair-pulling. A common feature of both telogen effluvium and trichotillomania is that they are triggered by chronic stress or traumatic events.

There are three main types of stress-related hair loss: telogen effluvium, trichotillomania and alopecia areata, also known as patchy hair loss.

If your hair starts to fall out a few months after a stressful period or a traumatic event, telogen effluvium is likely to be the cause of the change in your hair’s condition.

This type of hair loss has a significant impact on the hair by disrupting its natural growth cycle. Normally, 5–10% of hair follicles are in the resting phase, that is, prior to shedding, however, during telogen effluvium, up to 30% of hair strands may suddenly enter the resting phase, resulting in significant hair loss.

Telogen effluvium does not occur immediately, so you may have long since got through the stressful period, yet still find yourself experiencing sudden hair loss. Telogen effluvium can last for several months, so it is worth consulting a specialist as soon as possible.

This type of hair loss may not only be caused by emotional stress; a number of other factors may also play a part in its development: other common causes include nutritional deficiencies, hormonal changes, physical stress – such as surgery, illness or the postnatal period – as well as chronic health conditions or illnesses, such as thyroid problems; it can even occur as a side effect of certain medicines.

Trichotillomania, or compulsive hair-pulling, is a type of obsessive-compulsive disorder in which the sufferer constantly pulls out their hair, leading to hair strand thinning and hair loss.

Although this obsessive-compulsive disorder is not caused by stress, hair-pulling is much more common in stressful situations; patients try to relieve the tension caused by stressful periods or situations by pulling out their hair.

Alopecia areata is not a form of hair loss directly caused by stress, but a stressful life situation can make the condition much worse.

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks the hair follicles, causing damage and patchy hair loss. In severe cases, alopecia areata can affect the entire scalp, or bald patches may appear all over the body, including on the eyebrows or limbs. Recognising the bald patches that are a symptom of alopecia areata can help in diagnosing the condition.

Alopecia areata is caused by autoimmune processes, so in most cases it is linked to the presence of other autoimmune diseases. It is not caused by stress, but according to the latest research, stress does play a significant role in the severity of hair loss and can worsen the condition of alopecia areata.

Stress-related hair loss is relatively easy to spot if you look out for the tell-tale signs. This is also important so that you can seek expert help as soon as possible, as the health of your hair can only be fully restored using professional methods.

The biggest problem with hair loss is that it is difficult to tell at a glance what type of hair loss is involved; for this very reason, it is always advisable to seek expert help. Identifying the underlying causes of hair loss is also of paramount importance, and this too requires professional equipment and expertise.

There are, however, some fundamental differences between stress-related hair loss and male-pattern hair loss.

Preventing and treating stress-related hair loss requires a comprehensive approach, in which both hair care and lifestyle changes play a key role. Under the influence of stress, hair follicles can easily enter a resting phase, which can lead to increased hair loss. It is therefore important to adapt our daily hair care routine accordingly.

Regular, gentle massage of the scalp stimulates blood circulation, thereby supporting the health of the hair follicles. A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals – particularly B vitamins, iron and zinc – can contribute to the strength of the hair strands and promote natural hair growth. It is advisable to avoid excessive heat styling and tight hairstyles, and to opt for natural hair care products that do not place unnecessary strain on the scalp and hair strands.

To reduce chronic stress, it is important to take regular exercise, ensure you get enough sleep of good quality, and incorporate relaxation techniques – such as meditation or yoga – into your daily routine. These not only reduce stress levels but also support the body’s general health, thereby indirectly helping to prevent hair loss.

In the case of alopecia areata or telogen effluvium, it is essential to seek specialist medical advice, as these types of hair loss require specialised treatment – this is available to you as part of the Denza protocol.* The prevention and treatment of hair loss always require a personalised approach that takes into account the causes of hair loss, hair type and individual needs. In the case of stress-related hair loss, mindful hair care and stress management go hand in hand in maintaining the health of your hair.

As there are many possible causes of stress-related hair loss, there has not previously been a universal treatment capable of stopping hair loss in every case – until now.

The Denza laser hair treatment protocol improves the condition of the hair regardless of the underlying cause, and is therefore able to stop stress-induced hair loss. Laser hair treatment supports the hair growth cycle; it can induce the growth phase and keep hair strands in this phase for a long time, thereby restoring the health of the scalp. As part of the treatment protocol, we also provide personalised recommendations, using dietary supplements and at-home hair care products to maximise the effectiveness of the treatment.

Professional treatments are essential for restoring your hair’s health, but your lifestyle also makes a huge difference to your hair. As well as eating healthily, it’s worth learning some stress-management techniques and reducing tension, for example through exercise. Physical activity, such as regular exercise, can help reduce stress and support your body’s general health.

If your hair loss is caused by chronic stress, understanding and managing that stress can help your hair to regrow more quickly.

* The cost of specialist medical examinations is not included in the Denza treatment packages.