Stress Causes hair loss for several reasons.

Stress causes the constriction of the capillaries which feed the hair follicles. When this happens, the amount of oxygen and nutrients nourishing the hair are dramatically reduced.

Stress also causes excessive sweating. Abundant perspiration attracts airborne debris and pollutants which clog the follicles.

Stress affects the arrector pili muscles. These muscles are located underneath the hair follicles. Under stress, the arrector pili muscles contract and pull the hair. If the stress is prolonged, the resulting decrease of blood flow to the scalp will encourage hair loss.

Women, Stress and Hair Loss

Perm or coloring can break hair and make it look thinner. Physiological changes can also cause hair loss. Childbirth, crash dieting and taking birth control pills all encourage hair to shed. Normal hair growth should resume after the condition is corrected.

Since it takes months for hair to show the damage caused by stress and trauma, it will also, in turn, take months to heal and regrow. Most of the damaged hair will have to fall out before new and healthy growth becomes obvious.

Regular exercise will help improve the condition of your hair. Physical activity reduces stress and increases the blood flow to the extremities, including the head and scalp.