The importance of good sleep habits can hardly be overstated. Studies show that sleep deprivation can drastically impact your health and well-being. When you’re not getting 7 to 9 hours of quality rest each night, your body cannot perform optimally.
You’re likely aware of some of the most common effects of sleep deprivation. Cognitive issues, mood changes, weight gain, weakened immunity and increased risk for some diseases are some well-known dangers. But, did you know that it can lead to thinning hair and hair loss?
Stress and Sleep Deprivation
This time of year, you’re met with “Happy Holidays” everywhere you go. Isn’t it ironic that the holidays often feel far more stressful than happy? As it happens, stress is a leading cause of insomnia and poor sleeping habits. Stress can also contribute to hair loss.
In people who are already pre-disposed to hair loss due to genetics and heredity, poor sleeping habits can speed up these conditions, like androgenic alopecia and androgenic alopecia. However, it doesn’t cause thinning hair but may worsen your condition. Adopting better sleeping patterns can’t “cure” genetic balding, but it may help slow down the process.
Telogen Effluvium
Some hair loss related to sleep deprivation is only temporary and may be reversed with stress reduction and improved sleeping habits. Telogen effluvium is marked by noticeable thinning, shedding and hair loss over several months. Severe stress is one of the causes of this condition. It shocks your body into the resting phase of hair production – telogen. So, if stress is a leading contributing factor in your insomnia, addressing this issue can help
Tips for Better Sleeping Habits and Minimizing Subsequent Hair Loss
Now that you understand the importance of getting quality rest every night, consider these tips to help you achieve this goal:
Routine: Stick to a nightly sleep schedule for better regulation of your body’s clock.
Relaxation Techniques: Try deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation or soothing sounds to help you fall asleep and doze more soundly.
De-stress: Take steps to avoid stressors in your life when you can and apply coping techniques to minimize the impact of the stressors you can’t eliminate. Some strategies that may help, include meditation, yoga, mindfulness, and guided imagery.
Haircare Help: Minimize hair breakage while you’re asleep – choose silk fabric for your pillowcase over cotton. Don’t sleep in a ponytail that pulls back your hair and puts unwanted stress on your locks.
If you’re struggling with hair loss from sleep deprivation, genetics, medical conditions or other issues, Custom Hair Tampa Bay offers several solutions. Learn more about these hair restoration and hair replacement options by clicking here.
Photo Credit: StockSnap Via Pixabay
Sources: https://www.belgraviacentre.com/blog/is-hair-loss-caused-by-a-lack-of-sleep-permanent/
https://www.healthline.com/health/sleep-deprivation/effects-on-body#1
https://www.sleepfoundation.org/sleep-tools-tips/healthy-sleep-tips
https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/six-relaxation-techniques-to-reduce-stress