Why Is My Hair Giving Me a Headache?

Have you ever wondered why your hair might literally be giving you a headache? It sounds strange, but the relationship between your hairstyle and that throbbing pain in your head is real. Let’s explore why this happens and what you can do about it.

Can Hair Cause Headaches? Really?

Yes, your hair itself isn’t causing the headache, but rather the way you style it. The culprit is often what we call a “ponytail headache,” which happens when hair is pulled too tightly. Tight hairstyles put pressure on the scalp, triggering the nerves around your hair follicles, and that can lead to a headache. The medical term for this phenomenon is ‘external traction headache.’

Frequency of Headaches by Hairstyle

This histogram shows the frequency of headaches experienced by people based on different hairstyles. Tight styles, such as high ponytails and braids, are more likely to cause headaches compared to looser styles.

Your scalp is filled with nerve endings. When you tie your hair back tightly, it pulls on those nerve endings, making them hyper-stimulated. This is why you might feel a headache after sporting that high ponytail or a tight braid all day.

Did You Know?

Studies have shown that up to 50% of people with long hair have experienced a headache related to a tight hairstyle at some point in their lives (source). The pressure on your scalp can sometimes be enough to trigger a migraine for those who are susceptible.

Could It Be More Than Just a Tight Hairdo?

You might be wondering, “If I’m not pulling my hair tight, why do I still get headaches?” Other factors could be at play. For instance, heavy hair itself can cause strain on the neck and scalp muscles, especially if your hair is thick or very long. The added weight can lead to tension headaches as your muscles work overtime to support the extra mass.

Accessory Pressure and Headache Frequency

This histogram shows the frequency of headaches experienced by people using different types of hair accessories. Tight headbands and heavy hair clips are more likely to cause headaches compared to softer accessories like fabric hair ties.

Another possible reason is hair accessories. Wearing heavy clips or tight headbands can also trigger headaches. These accessories put pressure on specific areas of the scalp, which can lead to pain and discomfort. If you regularly use accessories that leave an indentation when you take them out, this could be the source of your headaches.

Table: Common Hair-Related Headache Triggers

Are Chemical Treatments to Blame?

Another lesser-known reason for headaches could be chemical treatments. Treatments like coloring, perming, or straightening can irritate the scalp and lead to inflammation. If your scalp feels sore after a treatment, it could be contributing to a headache. The chemicals in hair products can sometimes lead to an inflammatory response, especially if you have sensitive skin.

Comparison of Headaches After Chemical Treatment vs. No Treatment

This histogram compares the frequency of headaches between people who undergo chemical hair treatments and those who do not. Chemical treatments, such as coloring or perming, are associated with a higher likelihood of experiencing headaches.

What Can You Do to Avoid Hair-Related Headaches?

The good news is that you don’t have to sacrifice style for comfort. Here are some practical tips to help reduce hair-related headaches:

• Loosen Up: If you’re tying your hair back, try a looser style. Low ponytails are often less stressful on the scalp compared to high ponytails or buns.
• Limit the Time: Avoid keeping your hair tied up tightly for extended periods. Give your scalp a break by letting your hair down whenever possible.
• Switch Accessories: Opt for softer, lighter hair ties and avoid metal clips that might dig into your scalp.
• Watch the Weight: If you have very long or thick hair, consider a cut that reduces weight without sacrificing length, such as layers.
• Scalp Massage: A gentle scalp massage can help increase blood flow and relieve some of the tension in the scalp muscles.

Did You Know?

A study published in The Journal of Pain Research found that people who wore their hair in tight styles like ponytails or braids for over six hours were 75% more likely to develop tension headaches compared to those who wore their hair down (source).

Age and Susceptibility to Hair-Related Headaches

This histogram shows the susceptibility to hair-related headaches across different age groups. Younger individuals, especially teenagers, are more likely to experience headaches due to hairstyles compared to older age groups.

Is It All in My Head?

If you’ve made these changes and still experience headaches, it’s possible that something else might be at play. Scalp tension can sometimes be a symptom of stress or anxiety. When you’re stressed, you might unknowingly clench the muscles around your head and neck, including your scalp. In these cases, addressing the root of your stress—whether through lifestyle changes, exercise, or speaking with a healthcare professional—can often help alleviate the headaches.

Our Editorial Advice

If you’re experiencing frequent headaches related to your hair, don’t ignore them. It might be as simple as changing your hairstyle, but if the pain persists, consult a healthcare provider. Remember, small changes like loosening your hair, choosing gentler accessories, or getting a lighter cut can make a significant difference.

Your hair shouldn’t hurt you, so take the time to find out what works best for your comfort and health.