TLDR Measuring cortisol in hair helps understand stress and manage related health issues.
This review discusses the clinical relevance of measuring cortisol levels in hair, as cortisol is continuously deposited in the growing hair shaft. The measurement of hair cortisol is particularly significant in the context of certain diseases, as it provides a non-invasive method to assess long-term cortisol exposure. This can be crucial for understanding the role of stress and cortisol in various health conditions, potentially aiding in the diagnosis and management of diseases where cortisol plays a key role. The review emphasizes the potential of hair cortisol measurement as a valuable tool in clinical settings.
501 citations
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October 2008 in “Psychoneuroendocrinology” Hair cortisol levels can show increased stress during late pregnancy but only for up to six months.
50 citations
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July 2018 in “Psychoneuroendocrinology” Hair cortisol can indicate long-term stress levels, but hair growth rate differences may affect accuracy.
January 2017 in “Qucosa (Saxon State and University Library Dresden)” Plasma protein binding significantly affects glucocorticosteroid concentration in blood, saliva, and hair.
July 2025 in “International Journal of Dermatology Venereology and Leprosy Sciences” Higher stress levels may worsen alopecia areata, suggesting stress management is important for treatment.
237 citations
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September 2018 in “Clinical Biochemistry” Hair cortisol analysis can help diagnose stress-related conditions but needs more refinement for widespread use.
76 citations
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October 2011 in “Clinica Chimica Acta” Hot water and UV exposure reduce hair cortisol levels, with the back of the head showing the most consistent levels.