No matter the cause behind hair loss, it can be an emotionally distressing experience. Even temporary hair loss can be difficult to cope with, due to the toll it can take on a person’s self-esteem – and although many people associate hair loss primarily with older men, it can affect anyone of any age.
Why does hair loss affect our self-esteem?
Whether we realise it or not, our hair does affect our appearance – anyone who has ever ended up with a disastrous haircut can vouch for that. As a result, when people start to lose their hair, it can change the way that they see themselves and have a serious impact on their self-confidence.
Culturally and historically, a thick head of hair has been synonymous with youth, attractiveness and good health. This beauty standard still pervades, so hair loss may lead people to feel unattractive when they start to lose their hair. This is particularly true for women, whose hair is often considered their crowning glory. In fact, a study conducted by the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology revealed that women are more likely to develop a negative body image as a result of their hair loss compared to men. However, 75% of men also reported they felt less confident about themselves after starting to lose their hair.
It’s not just concerns about self-image, either – many people who experience hair loss may worry about how they are perceived in the workplace, or by romantic partners, as they worry that they will no longer be considered attractive by others.
Can hair loss cause depression?
Hair loss can cause emotional trauma, and the subsequent impact on self-esteem and self-worth can be linked to mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. In turn, some of the behaviours associated with depression – such as poor sleeping habits, a poor diet and increased alcohol intake – can make hair loss worse, making it a vicious cycle.
Coping with hair loss
If you are struggling with hair loss, you don’t need to suffer in silence – there are a number of ways to cope with hair loss.
Temporary hair loss
If you are experiencing hair loss caused by factors such as medication, pregnancy or weight loss, remember that the chances are it’s only a temporary form of hair loss known as telogen effluvium. Even if large amounts of hair fall out, the hair usually will grow back – although it can be hard to cope with, remember that it won’t last forever. It may be worth visiting your GP to check if there are any factors contributing to your hair loss.
Talk to someone
For anyone who is struggling with their mental health, it’s worth seeking treatment – there are plenty of professionals who will be able to support you through it. Talking therapies may be especially helpful if you’re finding that the emotional impact of hair loss is getting in the way of your daily life. Speaking to a professional about your struggles can teach you strategies to improve your confidence and self-esteem.
Surgical and non-surgical treatments
There may be no magic cure to hair loss, but there are plenty of treatments available to help restore your hair. From medications such as Propecia and Finasteride, to non-surgical scalp micropigmentation, all the way to permanent solutions such as hair transplants, there is sure to be a treatment to suit you.
Crown Clinic has been working with hair loss patients for years, offering them support and guidance to find a treatment that will work best for them. If you’d like to book a consultation to find out how we can help you, get in touch.