Speed of Hair Growth: Insights and Advice for Healthy Hair Expansion
In the world of hair growth, stress can play a significant role, causing a temporary but noticeable form of hair shedding known as telogen effluvium (TE). This condition occurs when stress forces hair follicles out of the active growth phase prematurely into the resting and shedding phase, leading to increased hair loss.
Normally, hair follicles cycle through three phases: growth (anagen), transition (catagen), and resting/shedding (telogen). In a healthy scalp, around 85% of hairs are in the growth or transition phases, while only about 15% are in the resting phase[1][3].
Under stress—whether psychological (e.g., grief, burnout) or physical (e.g., surgery, illness)—stress hormones like cortisol disrupt normal follicle cycling. This disruption causes a large proportion of growing hairs to be pushed prematurely into the telogen phase[1][2][3][4]. Since telogen hairs eventually shed, this results in a sudden, noticeable increase in hair loss occurring roughly 2-3 months after the stressful event—the time it takes for hair follicles to complete the telogen phase and shed the resting hairs[2][4].
Telogen effluvium is characterized by diffuse thinning and increased hair shedding rather than patchy or balding spots. The hair follicles themselves remain healthy, so if the stressor is resolved, hair regrowth usually occurs within several months[2][3].
Good nutrition is crucial in promoting healthy hair growth, as the living part of the hair (the root) receives its nutrients from the blood. Foods that promote healthy hair include fish, dark green vegetables, legumes, biotin-rich foods like whole grains, liver, egg yolk, soy flour, and yeast, nuts, and low-fat dairy products[5]. Adopting a healthful diet containing fruit, vegetables, grains, and an appropriate amount of fat will further promote healthy hair[6].
It's important to note that telogen effluvium can be caused by various factors other than stress, such as childbirth, high fever, severe infection, severe illness, surgery, overactive or underactive thyroid gland, not eating enough protein, and several medications[7]. Additionally, factors that can slow the rate of hair growth include crash diets, eating disorders, stress, smoking, vitamin deficiencies, and vitamin D deficiency[8].
In conclusion, stress triggers telogen effluvium by forcing hair follicles out of the active growth phase prematurely into the resting and shedding phase, causing temporary but significant diffuse hair shedding. Addressing the underlying stress and maintaining proper nutrition improves recovery chances[1][2][3].
Despite various claims, there is little evidence to suggest that using special shampoos or taking supplements can make hair grow any quicker[9]. Bone marrow is the only part of the body that grows faster than hair, and people are born with around 5 million hair follicles[10]. The lips, palms of the hands, and soles of the feet are the only parts of the body where hair does not grow[11].
- In the realm of health-and-wellness, stress can significantly impact haircare, sparking a temporary hair shedding condition called telogen effluvium (TE).
- Proper nutrition is critical for maintaining healthy hair growth, as hair roots receive nutrients from the blood. Foods like fish, dark green vegetables, and biotin-rich foods such as whole grains, liver, egg yolk, soy flour, and yeast are known to promote hair growth.
- Skin-care and fitness-and-exercise routines also contribute to overall health, which can indirectly positively impact the health of hair follicles and, consequently, hair growth.
- It's essential to understand that telogen effluvium can stem from various causes, not just stress. These can include childbirth, severe illness, or certain medications, among other factors. Addressing these underlying issues and maintaining a balanced diet will improve the chances of hair regrowth and recovery.
