Chemical Trauma, Stress, and Hair Loss

Hello Dr. Rassman,

I’m 18 years old, female, and over the past few months (I’d say about 4-6 months) I’ve been noticing my hair thinning above my ears and towards the back of my head. Over the past 4-6 months I had a terrible hair dye job occur when I was forced to get my hair bleached in order to remove the colour, in turn my hair turned a greenish/red from the bleach so I had to go BACK in to have it re-dyed. I’d say I’ve had it fixed about 3-4 times within the past couple months. Could that play a role as to why it is thinning? I’ve spoken to my Doctors and my blood tests for Anemia, Thyroid Dysfunction, Liver & Kidney disease all came back within normal limits.

I’ve been experiencing tremendous problems with my IBS as well. Seems as though these past couple months have been some of the most stressful I’ve ever had. So basically, could the chemical trauma my hair has been through more then likely be a result to my hair thinning? I’ve been taking vitamins with Biotin in them, about 6mg a day. And I’m going in to my stylist to have a foundation treatment done on my scalp.

Am I going in the right direction considering taking action for my thinning hair? Any suggestions or advice?

Thanx so much! this site is great!

I am sorry to hear there has been so much stress in your life. Emotional stress in itself can cause hair loss. Added to that, IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) has also been linked with hair loss. To make your situation worse, chemical hair dyes and bleach can also be a cause of hair loss. It seems that you are taking the right approach to promote a healthier hair/ scalp environment. However, it is not a guarantee for hair growth. The best thing going for you is a good bill of health from your doctors. Your body should hopefully take care of the rest. Keep away from the chemicals for your hair and you might have to wait a full year to see the benefits of time.