HOW LACK OF SLEEP AFFECTS YOUR HAIR
Written by Lisa Smalls, Freelance Writer
Today, sleep takes the backseat to almost everything in our lives: from our careers to our families, to our smartphones and laptops. Some of us even wake up super early to wash and style the pride and joy on our heads. But without a healthy amount of sleep every night, the overall health of our hair is in jeopardy regardless of our daily care routine. Not only does lack of sleep impact our cognitive function, skin complexion and weight, but it also affects the quality of our hair!
WHY LACK OF SLEEP IMPACTS HAIR
The main reason why lack of sleep affects the hair’s health is the increase in cortisol levels. Our adrenal glands release cortisol, “the stress hormone”, to help manage stressful situations. When you lose out on even one night of good sleep, your body’s cortisol levels can rise as quickly as the following day. Stress significantly affects the human body in various ways, through weight gain, brain fog, blood pressure, and hair follicles.
HOW LACK OF SLEEP IMPACTS HAIR
Oil Production
Higher levels of cortisol increase the oil production in the body. Extra oil not only affects your hair, but your skin and nails too. This is why when you’re under a lot of stress, you can expect a breakout on top of having oily hair. If the length of time that you typically go between shampoos is shortened due to an oily scalp, stress might be to blame.
Hair Loss
High levels of cortisol can can also cause your hair to fall out. Hair loss occurs as a result of stress, trauma, or any negative shock to the body. If you’ve noticed more hair on your pillow in the morning or more hair going down the shower drain, then you may need to evaluate your stress levels. The good news is that this kind of hair loss is temporary as long as you can control your stress levels.
WHAT TO DO?
The number one solution to getting your hair back to a healthy state is by getting more sleep! The CDC recommends seven to eight hours of uninterrupted sleep for adults. If you’re having trouble sleeping, perhaps the below tips can help you.
First, be consistent with your bedtime and ensure that your bedroom is clutter and light free. Eat nutritious foods like fruits and green vegetables. The less you sleep you have, the more likely you are to eat junk foods with no nutritional value. To help out with stress, try meditation or yoga to quiet and clear your mind. Finally, avoid using devices before bed unless it’s reading. Turn on the “blue shade” or the “ night” option on your devices to block out blue light and make it easier to sleep.
If you love your hair and we know you do, give it the TLC it deserves.
Author Bio: Lisa is a freelance writer from North Carolina who regularly writes sleep health articles for Mattress Advisor. The more she’s researched sleep, the larger her passion has grown for understanding the connection between sleep and beauty. When she isn’t writing, she loves doing hair for bridal parties on the side.
Disclaimer: Any recommendations made on this website or content herein are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or condition. Furthermore, the information on this website are the opinions of the author and are not a replacement for medical advice. Please consult your health care provider regarding any health-related decisions. You are fully responsible for any actions you take and any consequences that occur as a result of anything you read on this website.
