Can stress affect your hair?
Many people say their hair looks different during a hard season, such as a move, an illness in the family, a busy stretch at work or grief. Hair may look dull, frizzy or flat, and some people see more hair in the brush. Daily habits often slip during stress too. We sleep less, pull hair back tightly and rush through care.
Hair is personal, and these changes can be upsetting. Be kind to yourself. Most of what helps is simple and gentle.
When should you see a doctor?
If you notice sudden or heavy shedding, round bald patches, a part that widens quickly, or a sore, red or flaky scalp, please see your doctor or a dermatologist first. Hair loss has many possible causes, and a medical professional is the right person to find out why. A stylist can help with how your hair looks, but not with the cause.
If the changes come around midlife, you may also find hair changes in menopause helpful.
What gentle habits help stressed hair?
- Be gentle when hair is wet. Use a wide-tooth comb and start at the ends.
- Loosen up. Tight ponytails, buns and braids pull at the hairline. Choose soft scrunchies or a loose clip.
- Turn down the heat on styling tools and use a heat protectant.
- Keep the routine simple: a mild shampoo, conditioner on the ends and a light leave-in.
- Sleep on a satin or silk pillowcase, so hair rubs less overnight.
- Take an extra moment to massage your scalp slowly with your fingertips when you shampoo. Many people find it calming.
What easy styles look good on busy days?
When you are stretched thin, a style that takes five minutes is a gift. A low, loose bun with a satin scrunchie looks polished and puts no strain on the hairline. A soft braid on damp hair leaves gentle waves when you take it out. A twist held with a claw clip is quick and kind to hair.
A good cut does the most work on hard days. A shape that falls into place as it air-dries means less time with hot tools. If your hair feels flatter than usual, see haircuts for fine or thin-looking hair.
Why salon time can feel like a reset
Many clients say an hour in the salon chair is the one hour in the week that is just for them. A slow shampoo and a smooth finish can help you feel more like yourself on a hard week.
“Esther is the most amazing colorist and stylist. She makes me feel so relaxed to sit in her chair… I feel like a new woman when I walk out the door.”
— Sandy S., Kérastase treatment
Esther offers Kérastase treatments and products in the salon, and a luxury blow-dry with Kérastase products for $65, with long hair extra.
Talk to Esther about what you need
You don't need to explain everything. Just tell Esther how your hair has felt lately and what would help: less upkeep, more volume, softer color or simply a calm hour. She listens first and takes her time. Text Esther at 561-631-6462 for a free consultation.
Questions clients ask
What should I do if I'm shedding more than usual?
Start with your doctor, especially if the shedding is sudden, heavy or in patches. They can look for the cause. In the meantime, handle your hair gently, skip tight styles and high heat, and ask your stylist about a cut and finish that look fuller.
Should I color my hair during a stressful time?
That is your choice. Many people find that fresh color or a glaze helps them feel more put together. If your scalp feels tender or irritated, tell your colorist before the appointment. Esther uses L'Oréal INOA ammonia-free color, which feels gentle and has no ammonia smell.
Can a haircut make thin-looking hair look fuller?
Yes, a good cut can help a lot. Keeping weight at the ends, adding soft face-framing and choosing a length that is easy to style all help hair look fuller. Color with soft dimension can add to the effect.