Home > News > Influence of stress and lack of sleep on hair loss

Hair health doesn't depend solely on genetics or the type of care you use. Factors like chronic stress and poor sleep quality play a major role in hair loss or hair loss. At the Croix d'Or Hair Clinic in Geneva, we regularly see patients experiencing unusual hair loss—sometimes caused by purely emotional factors or poor lifestyle habits.


That's why we've decided to decipher for you the real impact of stress and sleep on your hair, and to give you some tips on how to react effectively.

Stress and hair loss: what is the relationship?



Chronic stress triggers a series of hormonal reactions in the body, including an increase in cortisol. This hormone, at high and prolonged levels, disrupts hair growth cycles . As a result, hair follicles prematurely enter the resting (telogen) phase, leading to sudden and widespread hair loss, also known as telogen effluvium.


(Bad) stress can also cause:


  • Inflammation of the scalp (via the sympathetic nervous system)
  • Itching and compulsive scratching that weakens the bulbs
  • Nutritional imbalances due to stress-related eating disorders

The role of sleep in hair regeneration


Poor or insufficient sleep prevents the body from regenerating effectively. However, it is during the night that the skin, scalp and follicles repair themselves. Sleep deprivation disrupts the production of melatonin , a hormone involved in protecting cells against oxidative stress, as well as blood microcirculation in the scalp, which is essential for nourishing hair bulbs.


In short: the less you sleep, the less your hair regenerates properly.

Warning signs: When stress or sleep affects your hair

Here are some typical signs of stress or sleep imbalance:


  • Diffuse hair loss, without localized loss
  • Decreased density or thinner hair
  • Sensitive, red or painful scalp
  • Brittle and dull hair


If you experience these symptoms, it is advisable to consult a hair specialist promptly to assess the specific causes and begin targeted treatment. Don't hesitate to get a diagnosis online on our website or contact our specialists ; they will be able to provide you with information!

How to react? Medical and natural solutions

At the Clinique du Cheveu Croix d'Or, several treatments can accompany comprehensive care:


  • PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) injections: to stimulate follicles and improve oxygenation of the scalp → discover our PRP treatment
  • Mesotherapy: a technique used to limit hair loss through scalp injections, which aim to deliver micronutrients and antioxidants to the hair → discover our Mesotherapy treatment
  • Micronutrition: to correct any deficiencies induced by stress or sleep disorders
  • Complete hair diagnosis: to analyse growth cycles and adapt the solution to your profile


Alongside this, we often recommend adopting simple but effective routines, such as improving sleep hygiene (fixed hours, no screens), practising relaxation (breathing, yoga, sophrology), limiting stimulants (caffeine, sugar) at the end of the day or incorporating gentle scalp massages to activate microcirculation.

Stress, sleep and scalp: a balance to rebuild

The impact of the mental sphere on hair health should not be underestimated. A stressful lifestyle, combined with poor sleep, creates a fertile ground for hair loss. For many patients, early, personalized, and multidisciplinary care (medical and lifestyle) can achieve rapid, visible results.

Conclusion

Stress and sleep are two major pillars of hair health. By acting at the first signs and combining medical expertise, healthy lifestyle practices, and innovative solutions, it's possible to limit the negative effects and preserve your hair for the long term.


Are you experiencing chronic stress or suffering from insomnia, and experiencing unusual hair loss? Book an appointment with our hair experts in Geneva to conduct a comprehensive diagnosis and consider personalized solutions.

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