Loss of Body Hair
For those experiencing hair loss, their cortisol levels may be the root of the problem. There are a few ways in which low cortisol levels can lead to hair loss. Cortisol suppresses collagen production. Collagen is a structural protein that gives our skin its elasticity and helps the hair and nails grow. So, when cortisol levels are low, collagen production is also low, which can lead to thinning hair.
Low cortisol levels can also inhibit the production of keratin. Keratin is a fibrous protein that forms the structural basis of our hair, skin, and nails. When keratin production is suppressed, it can lead to dry, brittle hair that is more susceptible to breakage.
In addition to these direct effects on hair growth, low cortisol levels can also indirectly cause hair loss by leading to other problems like autoimmune diseases. For example, people with autoimmune disorders like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or lupus often have low cortisol levels due to adrenal. These autoimmune diseases can cause inflammation throughout the body, leading to diffuse hair loss.
