Dealing with Sudden Hair Loss Through Stress Busting
Sudden Hair loss can be extremely stressful and upsetting because you have no control over your situation. The problem is that stress can lead to further hair loss so it is important to tackle this as soon as possible and get yourself out of this virtuous circle. Overcoming stress is generally aided by a sense of control and a shift in perspective. So...Put a beautiful smile on your face and keep reading.
The Cycle of Life - In This Case "Your Hair"
Try to create a sense of assurance. You can start doing that by learning more about your hair. Your hair follows a growth cycle lasting 2-6 years, which then develops into a rest phase.
If your hair is thinning or becomes kinky, take this as a good sign; it means that the hair follicle is alive and only temporarily traumatized. Be patient as full regrowth could take years, but stay positive as it will grow back in time. In the meantime, there is much you can do to speed up the healing process and reduce stress levels.
Help your Recovery By Practical Do's and Don'ts
- Never brush wet hair. Instead, divide hair into sections and use a wide-tooth comb to detangle. Do not use a fine-tooth comb as this can encourage hairs to fall out. Use your fingers for particularly troublesome tangles.
- Avoid using heated appliances because heat serves to weaken the natural proteins in each hair strand, which can lead to further hair loss.
- Keep bath and shower temperatures moderate; very hot water can cause your scalp to release more hairs.
- Allow hair to dry naturally, but be careful with towel drying; pat gently rather than rub vigorously.
- Ponytail bands that are fastened tightly can end up pulling out more hairs so wear hair loosely as much as possible.
Repair Your Scalp
If you are worried about possible scalp infections, try massaging aloe vera gel into your scalp; it has anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, cooling, and soothing properties which can help if your scalp is feeling burnt, irritated, or itchy.
The Silver Lining
Always remember that your hair will definitely grow back in time. Whilst your hair is growing back, you can experiment with new cuts and styles. Self-confidence and how you look in the mirror is a powerful weapon to combat stress. If you have never been daring enough to attempt a short hair-do, now could be the time. Make a nice change and forget what others might think. It's all about YOU!
Circulation Boosters
Healthy blood circulations is one of the most important factors for hair growth. Massaging you scalp on a daily basis will stimulate circulation and activate the sebaceous glands, which will promote activity in your hair follicles.
Stress Bust with Yoga
Essentially, yoga is a combination of meditation and exercise. You don't have to become a Yoga professional. With some beginner poses and basic steady breathing techniques, you can create a state of tranquility, clarity, and calmness.
Progressive Muscle Relaxation
In times of stress, your body can become tight and tense. Progressive muscle relaxation involves lying down and focusing on one body part at a time (usually from the feet upwards), contracting and then releasing to a state of absolute relaxation. These physical exercises are accompanied by deep breathing to re-energize your body and relax your mind. With a relaxed mind, you will be filled an assured realization that everything heals in time.
Affirmations
Affirmations are positive statements that you repeat out loud to yourself for a few minutes each day for about 30 days.
- "I have control over the regrowth of my hair,"
- "By massaging my scalp every day, I am promoting faster regrowth."
The Power of Zzz
A great way to minimize the effects of stress on your life and your hair is to ensure that you get a good 8 hours sleep every night. This seems obvious, but many people struggle by with as little as 5 or 6 hours. I know sometimes I do!
Vitamin Booster
Some vitamins and minerals are really important for healthy hair. Vitamin B-1 and Vitamin C promote healthy regrowth, repair hair follicles, and hydrate your scalp; Vitamin A promotes the production of sebum in the scalp and Vitamin E is super important for healing your scalp. Iron helps to heal a damaged scalp, whilst zinc speeds up the healing process and prevents further hair loss.
Just Imagine It!
Finally, visualization is a form of meditation that requires you to imagine yourself happy and at peace. Imagine how you will look when your scalp has healed and your hair has grown out – hold this image in your mind clearly and vividly for a few minutes each day. This will lift your spirits, give you something to look forward to and encourage you to enjoy the day ahead of you.
If your hair is thinning, you can rest assured that the hair follicles are alive, though total regrowth can take a few years. Many of the approaches above function by actively promoting your hair's healing and regrowth process, which will enable a sense of control and empowerment. Other exercises are more concerned with minimizing the impact of stress on your body and mind; this is very important in terms of preventing unnecessary, stress-induced hair loss.
