Hair loss and confidence

A 2023 review of 37 studies on men with pattern hair loss found most were affected only mildly or moderately, and many had average or better mental health. Quality of life was moderately affected for some.

So if you feel fine about it, that’s healthy. If it really bothers you, that’s valid too. Neither is the “right” reaction.

Part of what hurts is that hair loss happens to you. Some types are unpredictable: alopecia areata can come and go, and hair may regrow fully, partly or not at all.

Focusing on what you can choose, like how you style, cover or care for your hair, can give some control back.

About a quarter of men notice hair loss before 21. Losing hair while friends don’t can feel isolating, especially in your teens or twenties.

Genes cause hair follicles to shrink over time. In men it often shows as a receding hairline or thinning crown. In women it usually shows as overall thinning or a widening part.

The American Academy of Dermatology says treatment works best when started early.

Hair can shed a few months after giving birth, an illness, surgery or a very stressful event. It stops once the trigger passes, and hair usually regains its fullness within 6 to 9 months.

Alopecia areata usually causes coin-sized bare patches, though some people lose all scalp or body hair. Anyone can get it, at any age, and its course is unpredictable.

The guide Hair loss in women & alopecia: identity, culture and coping goes deeper.

Tight, constant pulling can lead to traction alopecia, which can become permanent. Changing hairstyles can prevent it.

Some chemotherapy causes hair loss, and radiation causes loss only where it is aimed. After chemotherapy, hair often starts to return 2 to 3 months after treatment ends.

See Cancer & mental health for the wider emotional side of treatment.

Thyroid disease, scalp infections and scalp psoriasis can all cause hair loss. Hair often regrows once the condition is treated.

The British Association of Dermatologists warns people to be cautious of online products promising quick fixes. Checking with a dermatologist first can save money and disappointment.

Treatment options exist for several kinds of hair loss, and some people choose procedures like hair transplants. Talk with a dermatologist or clinical provider about what is right for you.

If comments at school or work are constant, cruel or linked to your race, sex, religion or a health condition, it may be bullying or harassment. Talk to a trusted teacher, manager or HR.

• Follow their lead on whether to talk about it
• Skip the jokes unless they make them first
• Don’t offer miracle cures you saw online
• Compliment things they chose, like a new style or outfit

Try

• Set limits, like one mirror check before you leave
• Avoid harsh overhead lighting and zoomed-in photos
• Notice the urge to check, and let it pass without acting
• Look at the whole picture, not just your hairline

Avoidance feels safer in the moment, but over time it can feed low mood and isolation. Small steps back, like a swim in a cap or a photo you choose, can rebuild confidence.

When your inner critic says “I look terrible”, try: “I’m going through a change I didn’t choose. I’m still me.” The Self-compassion & your inner critic guide has more ideas.

Cleveland Clinic notes that changing your hairstyle, such as cutting it shorter or adding layers, can boost confidence and help disguise thinning. A stylist who understands hair loss can help.

Scarves, beanies, caps and headbands can cover hair loss and become part of your style.

Taking control by shaving can end the daily worry about thinning. The National Cancer Institute notes that some people having cancer treatment choose to cut their hair short or shave it before it falls out.

Options range from hair pieces that clip into your own hair, to toppers and toupees, to full wigs. Custom medical wigs are called cranial prostheses, and some insurers will reimburse them with a prescription.

Scalp micropigmentation is a tattoo-like process that mimics a shaved or buzz-cut look. It doesn’t grow hair.

In a hair transplant, a provider moves skin grafts with healthy hair to thinning areas. Cleveland Clinic notes full results can take up to a year and touch-ups may be needed.

Many people worry hair loss will make them less attractive. Warmth, humour and how you treat people tend to matter far more over time.

If you wear a wig or hairpiece, when to tell a new partner is your choice. The National Alopecia Areata Foundation says people can time it to their own comfort.

Whether to talk about hair loss at work is a personal decision, based on your workplace and whether you feel safe and supported.

A bare or thinning scalp burns easily. The National Cancer Institute suggests sunscreen or a hat outdoors.

NAAF offers support groups, a youth mentor program, parent support, one-on-one phone support and an annual patient conference. Visit naaf.org.

The Scarring Alopecia Foundation supports people with scarring hair loss and funds research. Visit scarringalopecia.org.

Online groups can be a lifeline. Look for ones focused on support and acceptance, and be wary of spaces that push products.

The American Academy of Dermatology’s “Find a Dermatologist” tool is at aad.org. Your primary care provider can also refer you.

In the UK, Alopecia UK (alopecia.org.uk) runs support groups. findahelpline.com lists free, confidential emotional-support helplines worldwide.