The Mighty Logo

Hair Loss Questions You've Been Afraid to Ask

The most helpful emails in health
Browse our free newsletters

Hair loss, something many of us know as alopecia, isn’t just about a few strands on the comb or the pillow. It is a reality that touches countless hearts and homes around the world. By the time most men turn 35, many see changes in their hairlines or density. And by 50? Well, a whopping 85% have experienced noticeable thinning. But it’s not just a “guy thing.” Almost half of all women will, at some point in their lives, see their hair change in ways they never expect.

Hair is more than aesthetics. It symbolizes youth, health, culture, and even a bit of our spirit. It impacts how we feel when we look in the mirror, how we want the world to see us, and sometimes, how we remember our younger selves. When hair starts to thin, it impacts mental health more than our external appearance. Feelings of insecurity or worry can creep in, even leading some of us to second-guess simple choices, like which social event to attend or what photo to share online.

In our world, where first impressions carry weight and memories are captured in endless photos, having hair that feels less than “perfect” can seem daunting. The emotional journey, often overlooked, can be just as challenging as the physical one.

What Causes Hair Loss?

Hair loss isn’t a simple, straightforward matter. It’s a puzzle with pieces that vary for each person. At its core, the reasons behind hair loss can be as diverse as the people it affects. From the history woven in our genes to the stress that modern life sometimes brings, a wide array of factors could be thinning our locks. Some common causes include:

1. Androgenic Alopecia: This is the most common type of hair loss, often referred to as male-pattern baldness or female-pattern baldness. It’s mainly due to genetics and family history. Men with this condition can begin experiencing hair loss as early as their teens or 20s, while most women don’t experience noticeable thinning until their 40s or later.

2. Hormonal Changes and Medical Conditions: Various conditions can cause permanent or temporary hair loss, including hormonal changes due to pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, and thyroid problems. Medical conditions include alopecia areata, an attack on hair follicles by the immune system, and diseases such as lupus and diabetes.

3. Medications and Supplements: Hair loss can be a side effect of certain drugs, such as those used for cancer, arthritis, depression, heart problems, gout, and high blood pressure.

4. Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy to the head can cause the hair to not grow back as it did before.

5. Stress: Many people may experience hair thinning several months after a physical or emotional shock. This type of hair loss is temporary.

6. Certain Hairstyles and Treatments: Excessive hairstyling or hairstyles that pull your hair tight, such as pigtails or cornrows, can cause traction alopecia. Hot oil treatments and perm can cause inflammation of hair follicles, leading to hair loss.

7. Poor Diet: Lack of proper nutrition can also lead to hair loss. For example, a deficiency in iron or protein can lead to hair shedding.

8. Age: It’s natural for some hair loss to occur as you age. Most people see their hair volume decrease in their 60s and 70s.

9. Fungal Infections: Ringworm can also lead to hair loss.

10. Excessive Use of Hair Products: Overusing hair products like gels, sprays, and colors can damage hair and cause it to break off.

Understanding the cause is the first step to addressing and potentially treating hair loss. If you experience unexpected or unexplained hair loss, you should consult a dermatologist or a trichologist, a doctor specializing in hair and scalp health.

Can Hair Loss Be a Sign of Something Serious?

While hair loss can be a natural part of aging or genetic predisposition, it can sometimes be a sign of underlying health issues or conditions. Here are some scenarios where hair loss may be indicative of something more serious:

  • Thyroid Disorders: Both hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) and hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) can cause hair loss. Hair loss often occurs evenly across the scalp.
  • Autoimmune Diseases:
    • Alopecia Areata: This condition is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks hair follicles, resulting in patchy hair loss.
    • Lupus: Another autoimmune disease, lupus can lead to hair loss, among other symptoms.
  • Scalp Infections: Conditions like ringworm can lead to hair loss, but this typically reverses with treatment.
  • Hormonal Imbalance: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can lead to hair loss due to hormonal imbalances.
  • Iron-Deficiency Anemia: Lack of adequate iron in the body affects the hair growth cycle.
  • Malnutrition and Eating Disorders: Severe or prolonged diets, as well as conditions like anorexia or bulimia, can result in various nutrient deficiencies that can cause hair loss.
  • Medications and Treatments: Some medicines, especially those used for cancer chemotherapy, high blood pressure, arthritis, depression, and heart problems, can lead to hair loss.
  • Severe Stress: Physical or emotional trauma can lead to a temporary hair loss called telogen effluvium.
  • Underlying Skin Conditions: Disorders such as lichen planus or some types of lupus can result in scars, which might permanently damage hair follicles, leading to hair loss.
  • Other Systemic Diseases: Conditions like syphilis, if in advanced stages, can also cause hair loss.
  • Hair Pulling Disorder (Trichotillomania): This is a mental health condition where a person feels an irresistible urge to pull out their hair.

If hair loss is sudden or accompanied by other symptoms, it’s essential to consult a physician or dermatologist. They can offer insights into the potential underlying causes and recommend appropriate treatments or interventions.

Does Testosterone Cause Hair Loss?

Androgenic alopecia is the most common type of hair loss, often referred to as male-pattern baldness or female-pattern baldness.

Testosterone in the body can be converted to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) with the help of an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase. DHT can bind to hair follicles, causing them to shrink and eventually stop producing hair, especially in those genetically predisposed to this reaction. So, it is not testosterone per se, but rather DHT, a byproduct.

Not every man with high testosterone will experience hair loss. Genetics plays a pivotal role, and hair follicles’ sensitivity to DHT leads to thinning.

All About Lupus Hair Loss

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect various parts of the body, including the skin, joints, and internal organs. One of the symptoms people with lupus may experience is hair loss. Here’s a closer look at lupus-related hair loss:

Types of Lupus-Related Hair Loss:

  • Diffuse Hair Loss: This refers to a general thinning of the hair and is the most common type of hair loss in lupus patients.
  • Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE): This is a chronic skin condition caused by lupus where round, disk-shaped sores appear on the scalp. These lesions can cause scarring, leading to permanent hair loss in those areas.

Causes for Lupus Hair Loss

  • Inflammation: In lupus, the immune system attacks the body’s own tissues, causing inflammation. When this inflammation targets the skin and scalp, it can disrupt the hair growth cycle and cause hair loss.
  • Medications: Some drugs prescribed to treat lupus, like corticosteroids or immunosuppressants, can have hair loss as a side effect.

Characteristics of Lupus Hair Loss

  • Hair loss in lupus can be gradual or sudden.
  • Hair may come out in clumps during brushing or washing.
  • The hair loss might be accompanied by other skin symptoms like rashes, especially a butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and nose.

Management and Treatment for Lupus-Related Hair Loss

  • Topical Treatments: Steroid creams or injections can reduce inflammation and help with hair regrowth.
  • Avoid Sun Exposure: Ultraviolet (UV) light can exacerbate skin symptoms in lupus, so it’s advisable to wear hats and sunscreens to protect the scalp.
  • Medication Adjustments: If a specific medication is suspected of causing hair loss, a doctor might adjust the dosage or switch to another drug.
  • Good Hair Care Practices: Gentle hair care can reduce the risk of further hair loss. It’s advisable to avoid harsh treatments, such as the frequent use of hot tools, chemical dyes, and tight hairstyles.

Often, hair will regrow once lupus is adequately managed and treated. However, if discoid lesions have caused scarring, the hair loss in those areas may be permanent.

If someone with lupus experiences significant hair loss or other concerning symptoms, it’s essential to consult with a rheumatologist or dermatologist.

What Is Alopecia Areata?

This is a condition where the system mistakenly attacks the hair follicles, leading to hair loss, typically in small, round patches on the scalp. While the exact cause of alopecia areata isn’t fully understood, specific triggers or exacerbating factors are believed to worsen the condition.

Is Alopecia Areata Hereditary?

Some studies have found that people with a family history of alopecia areata are at a higher risk of developing the condition. If you have a close family member with the disorder, your risk of developing it slightly increases compared to someone with no family history.

A family history of other autoimmune diseases, such as thyroid disease, lupus, or vitiligo, can also increase the risk of developing alopecia areata.

Specific genetic markers have been associated with alopecia areata. These markers can be found in people with the condition more frequently than those without it, suggesting a genetic component to the disorder.

Environmental triggers, such as stress or a viral infection, also affect its onset.

What Are Some Things to Avoid When You Have Alopecia Areata?

If you have alopecia areata, here are some things you might consider avoiding:

  • Physical Stress on Hair:
    • Tight Hairstyles: Braids, ponytails, buns, or any style that pulls on the hair can cause further damage to weakened follicles.
    • Heat Styling: Curling irons, straighteners, and blow dryers can stress and weaken hair, potentially leading to increased loss.
  • Harsh Chemicals:
    • Hair Dyes and Bleaches: Chemicals in hair dyes, especially those containing ammonia or peroxide, can irritate the scalp and worsen hair loss.
    • Chemical Treatments: Perms or chemical straighteners can weaken hair and exacerbate shedding.
  • Rough Handling:
    • Rubbing With a Towel: Instead, pat your hair dry, or let it air dry.
    • Aggressive Brushing: Use a soft-bristled brush and be gentle when detangling.
  • Certain Hair Products:
    • Alcohol-Based Products: These can dry out and irritate the scalp.
    • Sulfate-Containing Shampoos: Sulfates can strip the scalp of natural oils, leading to dryness and potential irritation.
  • Excessive Sun Exposure: The scalp is more vulnerable when thinning or balding occurs. Protect exposed areas with sunscreen, a hat, or a scarf.
  • Stress: While stress doesn’t directly cause alopecia areata, it can potentially trigger a flare-up or worsen the condition. Consider stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, yoga, or therapy.
  • Certain Medications: Some medications can exacerbate hair loss. If you suspect a medicine you’re taking might affect your alopecia areata, consult your doctor. Do not stop taking any medication without consulting a health care professional.
  • Ignoring Signs of Infection: Bald patches can become vulnerable to infections. See medical attention if you notice redness, swelling, pain, or any discharge.
  • Neglecting Scalp Care: Maintaining a clean and hydrated scalp can help promote a healthy environment for potential hair regrowth.
  • Smoking: Some studies suggest that smoking might exacerbate alopecia areata. While more research is needed, avoiding smoking could benefit overall health.

How to Stop Alopecia Areata From Spreading?

Although there isn’t a definitive cure for the condition, several treatments and strategies can help manage its symptoms and possibly reduce its spread:

  • Topical Steroids: Corticosteroids are frequently prescribed to treat alopecia areata. They can be applied as creams, ointments, or foams directly to the bald patches to suppress the immune response in those areas.
  • Steroid Injections: For smaller, localized patches of hair loss, dermatologists may inject corticosteroids into the affected areas. These injections are typically given every four to six weeks and can promote hair regrowth.
  • Topical Immunotherapy: This treatment induces an allergic reaction, which can counteract hair loss and lead to hair regrowth. Dermatologists might apply diphencyprone (DPCP) to the bald patches, causing an allergic reaction. While effective for many, this method can cause a rash and discomfort.
  • Minoxidil (Rogaine): This over-the-counter treatment, typically used for androgenic alopecia, can also stimulate hair growth in people with alopecia areata.
  • Anthralin: This is a synthetic tar-like substance that can be applied to the scalp to stimulate hair growth. Users must be careful, though, as it can irritate the skin.
  • Ultraviolet Light Therapy: Some people see improvements after undergoing ultraviolet light therapy, although it’s generally more effective for other types of alopecia rather than alopecia areata.
  • Oral Treatments: Drugs like oral corticosteroids, JAK inhibitors (such as tofacitinib and ruxolitinib), and others can be prescribed for more extensive alopecia areata cases. These are generally used when a significant portion of the scalp or other body areas are affected.
  • Maintain Scalp Health: Keeping the scalp clean and using mild shampoos can help maintain the health of the existing hair and potentially reduce the spread of hair loss.
  • Avoid Stress: While it’s easier said than done, managing stress can help reduce alopecia areata flare-ups. Consider relaxation techniques, such as meditation, deep breathing, and exercise.
  • Consult with a Dermatologist Regularly: Monitoring the progress and response to treatments is essential. A dermatologist can make recommendations based on how the condition evolves and provide new treatments as they become available.
  • Connect with Support Groups: The emotional aspect of alopecia areata can be challenging. Support groups can offer understanding, advice, and coping techniques from those who’ve experienced similar challenges.

While these treatments can help manage the symptoms and potentially limit the spread of alopecia areata, it’s essential to understand that the condition can be unpredictable. Some people may experience regrowth without treatment, while others might find their hair loss resistant to therapies. Each person’s experience with alopecia areata is unique, and what works for one might not work for another.

The Relationship Between Creatine and Hair Loss

Creatine and hair loss have been discussed and concerned, especially among gym-goers and athletes who supplement with creatine for muscle building and enhanced sports performance. However, it’s essential to differentiate between “creatinine,” a chemical waste product in the urine, and “creatine,” the supplement often used for muscle growth.

The primary concern about creatine supplementation and hair loss stems from a study published in 2009. In this study, rugby players who supplemented with creatine showed increased levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT).

However, it’s crucial to consider the following:

  • Single Study: Only one study suggests a link between creatine supplementation and an increase in DHT levels. Replicating findings across multiple research studies is crucial before establishing a solid connection.
  • No Direct Evidence: While the study showed increased DHT levels in those taking creatine, it didn’t provide direct evidence that this increase led to hair loss.
  • Generalizability: The study was conducted on a specific population (rugby players), so the results may not apply to the general public or those using creatine for other reasons.

While there is some scientific basis for the concern around creatine and hair loss, the evidence is far from conclusive. Those with a family history of male pattern baldness or are concerned about hair loss might choose to be cautious with creatine supplementation. However, many people use creatine without reporting significant hair loss issues.

If you’re considering taking creatine and are concerned about its potential effects on hair, consulting with a health care professional or dermatologist is a good idea. They can provide insights tailored to your situation and help weigh the potential risks and benefits.

Which Vitamin Deficiency Causes Hair Loss?

Nutritional deficiencies, including specific vitamins, can play a role in hair loss. Here are some vitamin deficiencies that have been linked to hair loss:

  • Vitamin D: A deficiency in vitamin D has been linked to alopecia areata, a type of hair loss caused by the immune system attacking hair follicles. Additionally, some research suggests that vitamin D can help create new hair follicles, the tiny pores in the scalp where new hair can grow.
  • B-Vitamins:
    • Biotin (Vitamin B7): While biotin deficiency is rare, when it occurs, one of its most noticeable symptoms is hair loss. Biotin is often found in hair growth supplements and shampoos.
    • Vitamin B12: A deficiency in B12 can lead to various symptoms, including fatigue, neurological issues, and hair loss. It is often found in animal products, so vegetarians and vegans might be particularly at risk unless they consume fortified foods or supplements.
  • Vitamin A: While vitamin A is essential for hair growth, an overdose can trigger hair loss. It’s a fat-soluble vitamin, which means it can build up in the body if consumed excessively. It’s essential to maintain an appropriate balance.
  • Vitamin E: While not directly linked to hair loss due to deficiency, some studies have shown that vitamin E supplementation can promote hair growth. However, like vitamin A, excessive amounts can have adverse effects.
  • Vitamin C: This vitamin is crucial for producing collagen, an essential component of hair structure. A deficiency in vitamin C can lead to dry, weak hair that can break easily.

In addition to these vitamins, certain mineral deficiencies, such as iron and zinc, can also contribute to hair loss. A balanced diet, rich in various nutrients, is essential for overall health and well-being, including maintaining healthy hair.

If you suspect a vitamin deficiency is the cause of their hair loss, please see a doctor or dermatologist. They can order tests to determine the deficiency and recommend appropriate treatments or dietary changes. Taking large doses of vitamins without medical supervision can have unintended and sometimes harmful effects.

Can Hair Loss Be Reversed?

Whether hair loss can be reversed depends on the cause, extent, and type of hair loss experienced. Here’s a breakdown of common types of hair loss and their potential for reversal:

  • Androgenic Alopecia (Male and Female Pattern Baldness):
    • This hereditary condition results in thinning hair and a receding hairline in men and a widening part in women.
    • While minoxidil and finasteride can slow the progression and even regrow some hair, they typically don’t restore all lost hair, especially in areas of significant thinning or baldness.
  • Telogen Effluvium:
    • This temporary hair loss occurs when a significant number of hair strands enter the resting phase at once. Causes include stress, significant weight loss, childbirth, surgery, or severe illness.
    • In most cases, hair will grow back once the triggering event is over or managed, making this type of hair loss reversible.
  • Alopecia Areata:
    • This is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks hair follicles, leading to patchy hair loss.
    • Hair can spontaneously regrow, but the condition can be recurrent. Treatments, such as corticosteroid injections, can encourage hair growth.
  • Traction Alopecia:
    • Caused by hairstyles that pull tightly on the hair, leading to hair breakage and follicle damage.
    • If detected early, removing the tension on the hair can lead to recovery and regrowth. However, prolonged tension can cause permanent damage to hair follicles.
  • Chemical Alopecia:
    • Resulting from hair treatments like dyes, relaxers, and perms.
    • Avoiding further chemical treatments and adopting a gentle hair care regimen can allow hair to regrow, but severely damaged follicles might be irreparable.
  • Scarring Alopecia:
    • Conditions like lupus, fungal infections, or other inflammatory diseases can cause scarring on the scalp, destroying hair follicles.
    • Hair loss from scarring alopecia is typically permanent, but treatments can prevent further progression.
  • Hair Loss from Medications or Treatments:
    • Some drugs, like chemotherapy agents or certain medications for high blood pressure, can cause hair loss.
    • Once the medication is stopped or the treatment is completed, hair will often grow back, although it might have a different texture or thickness.
  • Nutritional Deficiencies:
    • Deficiencies in iron, vitamin D, biotin, or other nutrients can lead to hair loss.
    • Replenishing the missing nutrients through diet or supplements can lead to hair regrowth.

Some types of hair loss are reversible, while others are not. Early intervention and consultation with a dermatologist or trichologist can provide the best chance of reversing hair loss or halting its progression. Identifying the cause of hair loss is essential to determine the most appropriate treatment approach.

How to Stop Hair Loss or Regrow Thinning Hair?

Identifying the cause of hair loss is essential to find the most effective treatment. In some cases, hair loss might be temporary, while in others, it might be permanent. Not all hair loss can be prevented or treated, so it’s crucial to have realistic expectations and consider seeking emotional support. Here are some ways to manage hair loss:

  • Proper Hair Care:
    • Gentle Handling: Use a wide-toothed comb and avoid aggressive brushing.
    • Avoid Tight Hairstyles: Styles like tight ponytails, braids, or buns can cause traction alopecia.
    • Limit Heat and Chemicals: Excessive use of hair dryers, straighteners, and chemical treatments can weaken hair.
  • Medications and Topical Treatments:
    • Minoxidil (Rogaine): An over-the-counter treatment for both men and women that can slow hair loss and promote regrowth.
    • Topical Corticosteroids: For hair loss due to conditions like alopecia areata.
    • Finasteride (Propecia): A prescription medication for men that can slow hair loss.
  • Lifestyle and Diet:
    • Eat a Balanced Diet: Ensure you’re getting enough iron, vitamin D, biotin, and protein. A deficiency in any of these can lead to hair loss.
    • Manage Stress: Chronic stress can lead to conditions like telogen effluvium, which results in temporary hair shedding.
  • Medical Procedures:
    • Hair Transplant Surgery: This involves moving small plugs of skin with active hair follicles to balding areas.
    • Scalp Reduction: Removing pieces of the bald scalp and bringing the hair-producing areas closer together.
    • Laser Therapy: Low-level laser therapy can stimulate hair growth for some people.
  • Underlying Medical Condition Treatment:
    • Address any underlying medical conditions, such as thyroid problems, lupus, or anemia.
    • If hair loss is a side effect of a particular medication, speak to your doctor about possible alternatives.
  • Natural Remedies and Supplements:
    • Saw Palmetto: Believed to inhibit the production of the hormone DHT, which is linked to hair loss.
    • Biotin Supplements: While there’s limited evidence, some people find biotin supplements beneficial.
    • Ginseng: Certain ginsenosides are believed to promote hair growth.
  • Consultation:
    • See a Dermatologist: If you’re experiencing significant hair loss, it’s essential to see a specialist to determine the cause and get a tailored treatment plan.
    • Trichologist Consultation: Trichologists specialize in issues related to hair and scalp.
  • Use Hair Growth Shampoos: There are shampoos specifically formulated to strengthen hair and stimulate growth. Look for products with ingredients like ketoconazole, biotin, or saw palmetto.
  • Scalp Massage: Some believe that massaging the scalp can stimulate hair follicles. While the evidence is anecdotal, it’s a relaxing practice.
  • Avoid Smoking: Smoking has been linked to baldness in men.

The Mighty Community’s Take on Hair Loss

While hair loss often feels deeply personal and isolating, it is a challenge shared by thousands across the globe.

Mighty contributor Samantha Moss opens up about her own journey in “Why Hair Loss Due to Chronic Illness Matters where she shares:

“To my complete surprise and shock, I looked down to find a handful of wet brown hair in my hand. I felt sick. This wasn’t normal. I ran my fingers through again thinking I must have had a large knot I’d unknowingly pulled out. Sure enough more hair came out. Not quite as much, but definitely more than what should have come out. There was no denying I was now experiencing real hair loss.”

We asked the Mighty community to share their experience with hair loss. Here’s what they said:

“I have seborrheic dermatitis and was only able to get a proper diagnosis three years ago. For years, I visited multiple doctors, tried shampoos, hair oils, serums, tonics, and was struggling with hair loss. I was only able to get it treated using Selsun Blue and Itraconazole.” – highwaytoworth

“I have struggled with trichcotillomania since I was in elementary school. A few years ago, it worsened and I ended up completely bald. It was very hard for me. Recently, I started a new medication that had helped tremendously and I have enough hair now that I actually have to use a hairbrush and wash my hair!” – @mermaidgirl48

“I experience losing my hair every day no matter if I wash my hair, brush my hair I’ll lose hair, but that’s a fact of life because every couple of months even humans goes through a shedding process of hair for regrowth of new hair.” – @jaydin

“I had episodes of losing my hair the first time was like 16 years ago when I did not know that I had a gangrene infection in my gallbladder and I had two bad large gall stones. For me what helped me was using natural essential oil blends I made and tried different oils for myself I had to test different ones to make sure I was not sensitive or allergic and which ones worked for me. Plus I use shampoo bars made from essential oils which I also tried and tested. When I had COVID-19 in 2021 I went through the same thing and with hormonal changes with pre menopause and menopause.”– @shannasteinmiller

Each person’s experience is unique, yet it’s comforting to know that we are not alone in this. There’s a vast community of people who can truly relate, offering empathy and understanding to one another in their shared experiences.

Hair Loss and Mental Health

The emotional impact of hair loss can be profound, given that hair is often deeply intertwined with an our identity, self-perception, and societal standards of beauty and attractiveness. Here’s a detailed look at the emotional ramifications:

  • Self-Esteem and Self-Worth:
    • Hair loss can lead to decreased self-esteem and feelings of unattractiveness. You might feel that you are less appealing without their usual hair, which can affect their overall sense of self-worth.
  • Anxiety and Depression:
    • The onset or progression of hair loss can trigger feelings of sadness or even depression. There’s also the anxiety of not knowing if or when the hair loss will halt and if it will grow back.
  • Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD):
    • Some people could develop BDD, a mental health condition where a person becomes obsessed with perceived flaws in their appearance, which may be minor or not observed by others.
  • Social Withdrawal:
    • Sometimes you may retreat from social situations to avoid attention or perceived judgment about the hair loss. This can lead to feelings of isolation.
  • Impact on Relationships:
    • Hair loss can impact intimate relationships. You may feel less attractive to their partners, leading to intimacy issues. It can also affect new relationships, leaving you feeling hesitant to date due to insecurity.
  • Career Implications:
    • In professions where appearance plays a significant role, hair loss can affect your career prospects or confidence in the workplace.
  • Coping Mechanisms:
    • Many people adopt various coping mechanisms, such as wearing hats, scarves, wigs, or using hair fibers to conceal thinning areas. While these can offer temporary relief, they might also serve as a constant reminder of the hair loss, which can be emotionally taxing.
  • Grief:
    • Losing hair can be akin to going through a grieving process for some. You may mourn the loss of your previous appearance and the associated memories.
  • Financial Stress:
    • Pursuing treatments, therapies, or solutions for hair loss can be expensive, leading to financial stress, especially if the outcomes are not as expected.
  • Acceptance:
    • Over time, some people come to terms with their hair loss, accepting it as part of their identity. This acceptance can lead to improved mental well-being, though the journey to this point can be challenging.

Given the significant emotional toll hair loss can have, it’s essential to seek support, whether through therapy, support groups, or open conversations with loved ones. Addressing the emotional aspect is just as crucial as seeking physical treatments for hair loss.

Hair loss, while natural, can often feel like an unexpected break in this narrative. It’s important to remember that you are not alone in this journey, and your worth isn’t defined by the strands on your head. Embracing change, seeking support, and exploring remedies can pave the path towards healing and acceptance.

Originally published: August 26, 2023
Want more of The Mighty?
You can find even more stories on our Home page. There, you’ll also find thoughts and questions by our community.
Take Me Home