Understanding Hair Changes with Eating Disorders — And How to Care for It Gently

One of the lesser talked-about — but emotionally painful — side effects of eating disorders is hair loss or noticeable changes in hair texture, thickness, or growth. For many teens and young adults, especially, these physical signs can increase distress or shame.

Let’s break down why it happens, what it might look like, and most importantly — what you can do to care for your hair while supporting your recovery.

Why Does Hair Change During an Eating Disorder?

Hair is not essential for survival — so when the body isn’t getting enough energy or nutrients, it shifts resources away from non-essential functions, including hair growth.

This can happen in any eating disorder, including:

• Anorexia nervosa

• Bulimia nervosa

• ARFID

• Binge Eating Disorder (if paired with restriction or nutrient imbalance)

Common causes:

• Low overall calorie intake

• Low protein intake

• Iron, zinc, or B-vitamin deficiencies

• Hormonal changes (including thyroid function)

• Stress on the body from purging or rapid weight changes

What Hair Changes Might You Notice?

Every body is different, but common hair-related symptoms include:

• Shedding or hair loss (on pillow, in shower, brushing)

• Thinning along the scalp or part

• Dry, brittle, or dull texture

• Slow growth or breakage

• Loss of body hair (arms, legs, eyebrows)

• Lanugo (fine, downy hair growth on face or body — often a sign of severe malnutrition)

These changes can feel scary or embarrassing — but they’re also your body’s way of asking for nourishment and rest.

Can Hair Grow Back After Recovery?

Yes — in most cases, absolutely.
Hair typically begins to grow back as the body starts receiving consistent nourishment and stabilizes. But it can take time — often 3 to 6 months or more to notice significant improvement.

Factors that help:

• Restoring nutritional intake

• Reducing physical and emotional stress

• Adequate protein, iron, and essential fats

• Patience with your body’s healing timeline

💆‍♀️ How to Take Care of Your Hair Gently During Recovery

Here are some kind, body-respecting tips for supporting your hair during healing:

Be gentle with products and tools

• Avoid heat styling (or minimize it)

• Use sulfate-free, nourishing shampoos (consider Nizeral to reduce inflammation)

• Apply deep conditioners or hair masks weekly

• Detangle carefully with a wide-tooth comb

Support your body from the inside out

• Prioritize consistent meals and snacks

• Include healthy fats (avocados, nuts, oils, etc.)

• Don’t skip iron-rich foods (or supplements if recommended)

• Stay hydrated

Consider a trim

Even if you don’t want to cut your hair short, trimming split ends can reduce breakage and help your hair look and feel healthier.

Care for your stress

Eating disorders often go hand-in-hand with high anxiety. Consider stress reduction techniques like:

• Therapy

• Meditation or breathwork

• Gentle movement (like yoga or walks)

💬 And If You’re Struggling Emotionally with Hair Loss…

Know this: you are not alone — and your worth is not in your hair.
Losing hair can feel like losing a part of your identity. It’s okay to grieve that. But we also invite you to see your hair changes as a powerful signal — not a failure, but a call toward deeper healing.

In time, as your body heals… so will your hair.

🌱 If You Need Support

Our team specializes in working with children, teens, and young adults facing eating disorders and the physical/emotional challenges that come with them.