Stress Hair Loss Types, Shedding Timelines, and Regrowth

Three Ways Stress Affects Hair

Cleveland Clinic identifies three distinct types of stress-related hair loss: telogen effluvium, alopecia areata, and trichotillomania. Telogen effluvium is the most common form among them. In telogen effluvium, hair follicles shift from the growth phase to the resting phase at the same time.

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks hair follicles, causing sudden patchy loss. Cleveland Clinic notes that stress may trigger flare-ups in susceptible people.

Trichotillomania is stress-related hair pulling that can create bald patches or thinning. Cleveland Clinic lists it as a distinct condition where individuals pull their own hair in response to stress.

Stress Shedding Timeline

Cleveland Clinic says hair loss may appear two to three months after a stressful event. The Cleveland Clinic telogen effluvium page lists psychological stress among triggers and says the condition usually lasts three to six months.

For stress-induced shedding, new growth can typically be expected within a few months per its stress article. Normal hair shedding is 50 to 150 strands per day per Cleveland Clinic.

What Helps While Hair Regrows

Cleveland Clinic lists waiting for regrowth as an approach while hair recovers from stress-induced shedding. For alopecia areata, Cleveland Clinic notes that corticosteroids or minoxidil can be used, and readers should ask a clinician which options apply to them.

Cleveland Clinic also lists stress management practices to help address underlying tension. These practices include yoga, meditation, breathing exercises, time in nature, regular exercise, better sleep, and therapy.

Other Causes to Rule Out

Cleveland Clinic says several conditions, including thyroid problems and nutrient deficiencies, cause hair loss. Cleveland Clinic says it is best to get a medical evaluation to identify what is causing hair changes (see the guide to hypothyroidism for related thyroid information).

For related educational reading, see the reviews of cortisol levels, high vs low cortisol symptoms, and blood tests for hair loss. Ask a clinician whether any testing applies to you.

When to See a Doctor

Cleveland Clinic says it is best to get a medical evaluation because several conditions cause hair loss. A doctor can evaluate individual symptoms, review health history, and check whether shedding stems from an underlying medical issue.

If hair loss appears suddenly in patches, ask a clinician for an evaluation. Ask a clinician for an evaluation of your shedding. This page is educational and not a substitute for a clinician's advice.