The Emotional Effects of Hair Loss on Women

How to deal with the emotional impact of hair loss

None of us want to lose our hair, but for some people, hair loss can cut particularly deep. This can be especially true for women, who often don’t expect to face the issue of thinning hair. Whether you simply don’t like your hair loss or find it devastating to your self-esteem, there are ways to make your thinning hair less difficult to bear. Here are a few tips to help you feel better about it.

Recognize that hair loss in women is not as well known as hair loss in men. We hear all about men's bald spots and hair loss, but few people know that hair loss can be nearly as common among women. You may find fewer informational web sites and support groups dedicated to your plight, and fewer products on the market to help you regrow your hair or deal with the effects of your hair loss.

Remember that a woman’s self-esteem is often more tied to her looks. Our society places a high premium on looks and a youthful appearance — especially for women. And thinning hair can make a woman feel less attractive and older than her years, which can provoke all sorts of negative emotions affecting self-esteem. Try to focus on your internal and external strengths — not on your hair loss.

Keep in mind that hair loss may be temporary. Many of the conditions that cause hair loss — thyroid problems, side effects of medical treatments like chemotherapy, post pregnancy hormonal shifts, and even hairdos that are too tight — produce only temporary loss that can be reversed with the right medication or with time. Knowing that your hair will come back when you’re put on the proper medication, or after a medical treatment ends, or once the hormonal shifts of pregnancy settle down, or when you stop putting your hair in tight ponytails and braids could help you deal with the psychological impact of the hair loss a little bit better.

Take a proactive approach. Look for ways to fight the hair loss and to mask its effects while you’re waiting for your hair to regrow. Many types of hair loss respond well to minoxidil (brand name Rogaine), and many hair care lines feature various serums, shampoos, and conditioners that may help boost hair growth and make the hair you have appear thicker. While you’re waiting for your hair to start growing back, look into hair extensions or small falls that you can add to your hair to give it a thicker, lusher appearance. In addition, hair accessories like hats and wide headbands can be used to mask hair loss. They may make you feel more confident about your appearance and more accepting of your hair loss.