Stress can contribute to excessive shedding, but it should not be assumed to be the only cause. Research on corticosterone and GAS6 was performed in mice and does not establish a treatment for women. Sleep, support and gentle hair care can help with wellbeing while a clinician assesses persistent changes.
Hormones & life stages
Hormones shape the hair cycle at every stage of life. Here we look at perimenopause, menopause, PCOS, thyroid conditions and stress, and what the research says about each.
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Thyroid conditions can contribute to diffuse shedding and changes in hair texture. A clinician uses symptoms and selected blood tests to assess thyroid function; hair changes alone cannot identify the cause. Other conditions can coexist, so persistent loss deserves a scalp assessment.
Menopause can change hair texture, shedding and coverage, and these problems can overlap. Cosmetic care can improve comfort and manageability, while treatment should follow an assessment of the cause. Progressive thinning, unexplained shedding or scalp symptoms deserve attention without a compulsory wait.