Hair and nails are often the pride of our body, it affects our appearance and therefore also our self-confidence. An often underestimated factor that has a direct impact on our hair and nails is stress. But how exactly does that work?
What does stress do to your hair?
Researchers at Harvard University conducted an interesting study in mice that showed a clear link between hair and stress. You're probably wondering what this has to do with human hair?
Well, the findings from the research can also be extended to humans. What turned out? In addition to its known effects on our mental and physical health, it is confirmed that stress also has a significant impact on the condition of our hair. Harvard University researchers have shown a link between chronic stress and hair loss in mice. This provides important insights into how stress causes hair loss in people.
The study showed that the stress hormone damages stem cells in hair follicles , resulting in slowed hair growth and an extended resting phase. Stress not only causes mental and emotional symptoms, but unfortunately also physical consequences such as hair loss.
How was the research carried out in concrete terms?
For the research mice were exposed to mild stress. The result was an increase in cortisol levels, which resulted in reduced hair growth. Interestingly, the normal hair cycle could be restored by giving them an ingredient that activates the stem cells of the hair follicles.
What does stress do to your nails?
Just like our hair, our nail health can also be affected by stress and other internal factors. Your nails may seem to be suffering from your lifestyle, but stress can also have an impact.
Healthy nails need vitamins and minerals such as protein, biotin, silica, magnesium, zinc and iron. Unfortunately, stress makes it harder for our bodies to absorb nutrients. Stress causes nail ridges, pits and flaking to develop, which weaken the nail.
There is also a chance that you have relapsed into a nervous tic such as nail biting or rubbing, which causes even more damage to the nail beds. Fortunately, there are plenty of solutions to combat any damage to your nails.
What can you do yourself?
Although stress may be unavoidable , there are several ways to reduce its impact on our hair and nails. Practicing stress-relieving activities such as meditation, yoga and exercise can help improve overall health and reduce stress-related hair loss and nail abnormalities.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is of course important for healthy hair and nails. This includes a diet rich in nutrients essential for hair and nail health, such as proteins, vitamins and minerals. Of course this is easier said than done. Fortunately, there are also specific products aimed at stress and nails such as the Metis Hair & Nails 09 . This contains, among other things, olive leaf extract, which is one of the strongest antioxidants. This protects the body against stress and hair loss.
In short, although stress is unavoidable in modern life, conscious choices and healthy habits can help minimize its impact on our hair and nails.
Pharmacist Dirk
Founder Metis Supplements
