Understanding hair loss

How does losing your hair feel?

Hair is just dead skin cells. Weird. But as humans we’ve long used it to express ourselves. It’s something that’s tied to our perceptions of attractiveness and even success, so it makes sense that when your hair changes, it can make you feel a bit crap. Here’s some things you may be feeling if you’re experiencing hair loss.

• Lack of confidence
• No longer feel attractive
• Anxious about how people see you
• Worried about how much/quickly you’ll lose your hair
• Helpless
• Angry
• Frustrated
• Loss of identity
• Worries around finding a partner

Why do people lose their hair?

There are loads of reasons someone might lose their hair, from genetics to medical or environmental conditions.

The most common reason that men lose their hair is male pattern baldness – a genetic condition that causes hair follicles to stop working (and growing). If you’re not sure why you’re losing your hair speak to your GP.

Other causes of hair loss include:

• Iron-deficiency (anaemia).
• Underactive thyroid.
• Fungal scalp infection.
• Some prescribed medicines.
• Stress and conditions like traction alopecia where someone pulls their hair so much it breaks or comes out.

Dealing with hair loss

Everyone who loses their hair feels differently about it. While some people think it’s best to embrace their hair loss, some investigate options like medication with their GP or private clinics, and others experiment with wigs or head coverings to create a new look. There’s no right way to deal with hair loss – you just need to find what works for you. The important thing to remember is that your hair does not define you, and that there’s nothing wrong with you.

You can find more about hair loss on the NHS website.

Talking about hair loss

It can be difficult or embarrassing to talk about anxieties or worries around losing your hair with your friends, family or a medical professional. But if it’s causing you distress, it’s good to get how you feel in the open. Here’s some ways you can start a conversation: