How Stress & Diet Affect Your Hair Health

We all know that stress can take a toll on our bodies—and our hair is no exception. Pair that with a poor diet, and you may notice your strands looking less shiny, thinning out, or even shedding more than usual. At our salon, we believe in healthy hair from the inside out, and understanding how lifestyle factors like stress and diet play a role is the first step to stronger, more beautiful hair.

The Connection Between Stress & Hair

When you’re stressed, your body produces more of the hormone cortisol. Elevated cortisol levels can disrupt the hair’s natural growth cycle, leading to:

• Shedding or thinning (telogen effluvium)

• Slower growth

• Dry, brittle strands

You may notice increased shedding a few months after a particularly stressful time in your life. The good news is—once stress is reduced, your hair can often recover.

How Diet Impacts Your Hair

Your hair is made of protein (keratin), and like the rest of your body, it depends on nutrients from your diet to stay healthy. Without the right balance of vitamins and minerals, your hair may become dull, dry, or prone to breakage.

Key Nutrients for Healthy Hair:

• Protein: Builds strong strands (found in lean meats, eggs, beans).

• Iron: Prevents hair shedding and thinning (spinach, red meat, lentils).

• Omega-3s: Keep hair shiny and hydrated (salmon, chia seeds, walnuts).

• Vitamins A & C: Support scalp health and boost collagen (berries, citrus, leafy greens).

• Biotin & B Vitamins: Help with growth and thickness (eggs, nuts, whole grains).

If your diet is lacking these essentials, your hair will often be the first to show signs.

Tips for Better Hair Health

• Manage Stress: Try relaxation techniques like yoga, exercise, or simply carving out time for yourself.

• Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on whole foods packed with nutrients.

• Stay Hydrated: Water is key for scalp and hair hydration.

• Salon Treatments: Regular deep-conditioning or gloss treatments can help improve the look and feel of stressed hair from the outside.

The Bottom Line

Healthy hair starts with a healthy body. By managing stress and nourishing yourself with the right foods, you’ll notice stronger, shinier, and more resilient hair. And of course, pairing good habits at home with professional care in the salon is the best recipe for gorgeous results.

Need help bringing your hair back to life? Book a treatment or color refresh with us—we’ll help you look and feel your best, inside and out.