Stress Biomarkers in Hair: A New Diagnostic Tool
Discover how hair strands can reveal months of stress exposure through measurable cortisol levels.
Scientists have discovered that strands of hair can serve as historical records of stress. This study quantified cortisol — the “stress hormone” — directly within hair fibers to evaluate long-term psychological load.
- Hair cortisol levels accurately reflected chronic stress exposure over months.
- Elevated cortisol correlated with increased shedding and scalp inflammation.
- Hair samples provided non-invasive, retrospective stress assessment.
- The method could supplement mental health screenings.
Hair analysis offers a simple, physical indicator of mental stress, linking psychological and biological health more directly than ever. It also helps explain why stress management matters for visible hair outcomes.
Hair growth rates vary, which can affect the timeline accuracy of cortisol measurement.
Citation & Review Team
Full Citation
Zhang M. et al., Front Psychiatry, 2025.Review Team
Author: Student Editor
Fact-Checker: Dermatology Researcher
Disclaimer
This article is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice.