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Understanding Hair Growth and What It Says About Your Health
Our hair is more than just a cosmetic feature—it can be a window into our overall health. Knowing how hair grows, why it sheds, and what changes may mean can help you take better care of yourself—inside and out.
The Hair Growth Cycle
Hair grows in repeating phases:
The Anagen phase is the GROWTH phase which lasts 2-7 years. About 85% -95% of your hair is in this phase. The Catagen phase is a transition phase which last two short weeks. During this time, the hair grows slower and follicles shrink. Old hair rests in the follicle before shedding during the Telogen, resting phase. Hair naturally falls out during the Exogen or shedding phase. On average, a healthy scalp loses 50–100 hairs per day.
Common Causes of Hair Loss
Hair loss can occur when the balance of these phases shifts. Some natural triggers include:
Stress and poor sleep: Both elevate cortisol which causes shortening of the growth phase of your hair. Chronic stress can also decrease blood flow (and nutrient) to the scalp the hair follicles. Poor-quality sleep also disrupts melatonin production, a hormone tied to healthy growth cycles.
Nutritional deficiencies: Lack of protein, iron, zinc, or vitamins B, D, and E can weaken follicles. When your body is short on nutrients, it prioritizes vital organs first, and hair becomes one of the first areas to show signs of deficiency.
Hormonal changes: Thyroid imbalance, pregnancy, or menopause affect hair growth. Shifts in estrogen, testosterone, and thyroid hormones change the thickness and density of hair ( causing either thinning or excessive shedding).
Inflammation or illness: Autoimmune conditions, chronic disease, or even a high fever can disrupt your hair cycles. Conditions like lupus or alopecia areata can cause the immune system to attack follicles. Even temporary illness may shock the body into shedding more hair than usual.
Genetics and aging: Influence follicle sensitivity and growth patterns. As we age, follicles shrink and produce finer hair, while inherited patterns like male- or female-pattern baldness tend to manifest gradually over decades.
Chemical injury from hair products: Frequent use of harsh dyes, relaxers, bleaches, or heat styling can damage the follicle’s environment. Over time, repeated exposure weakens the hair shaft and irritates the scalp, which makes breakage and thinning worse.
Hair as a Health Indicator
Changes in hair may reflect deeper issues:
Dry, brittle strands: This may be a possible sign of thyroid imbalance, dehydration, or nutrient deficiency.
Thinning at the crown or temples: May point to hormonal shifts or genetic predisposition.
Sudden diffuse shedding: Often linked to stress, illness, or major life changes.
When hair health changes suddenly, it’s worth looking at lifestyle and health habits—not just topical products.
Natural Ways to Support Healthy Hair
You can’t change your genetics, but you can optimize your inner and outer environment for healthier growth:
Balanced nutrition: Eat whole foods rich in protein, leafy greens, beans, nuts, and seeds for biotin, iron, zinc, and omega-3s.
Hydration: Aim for 6–8 glasses of water daily to nourish follicles.
Stress management: Regular movement, deep breathing, prayer, or meditation can lower cortisol.
Scalp care: Gentle massage with natural oils (e.g rosemary, coconut, or jojoba) stimulates circulation.
Sunlight & sleep: Adequate vitamin D and consistent rest reset hormonal balance and immune support.
Bottom Line
Healthy hair starts within. By nourishing your body, reducing stress, and practicing consistent self-care, you’re not only supporting strong, vibrant hair (and glowing skin)—you’re also promoting overall wellness.
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