The surprising impact your hair loss has on your happiness
New research from hair brand évolis has found a surprisingly strong link between our mental health and how we feel about our hair.
The report found that 40 per cent of Australians who have experienced hair loss also experienced a loss in confidence. One in three said they suffered lower self-esteem and one in five even became depressed.
It’s not just our self-image that takes a hit, either. Almost a quarter (23 per cent) of respondents said their hair loss had impacted their love lives – and this isn’t surprising, given 48 per cent replied that, when looking for a romantic partner, having hair was important to them. One in five even said they lost interest in people who were bald or had thinning hair.
The research also debunked the commonly-held theory that more men suffer hair loss than women. One in two men reported they had been affected by hair loss, while less than 45 per cent of women are likely to go through life with a full head of hair.
Dr Dominic Burg, chief scientist at évolis says the findings prove there is “significant stigma” attached to hair loss – event at an unconscious level. “We tend to link good, thick hair, with youth and in turn virility,” he said.
“Hair loss is often associated with poor health and this is because your body will tend to shut down hair and nail growth when you are unwell, in order to preserve energy for other bodily functions. So unconsciously, we assess the health and fitness of others, including potential partners by the appearance of their hair.”
“Stress, diet, medications, illness, age and genetics can all impact the hair cycle. This can result in shedding, a decrease in thickness and quality of hair and also a reduction in follicle density.”
“My advice for men and women experiencing hair loss would firstly be to get more exercise, reduce stress and improve your diet.”
Have you found your mental health has taken a hit due to suffering from hair loss? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.