To be the very best version of yourself, you need to feel good, not only physically but mentally. When people consider self-esteem, they tend to focus on areas that are connected to personal development. For example, you might believe that self-esteem is most closely associated with your personal relationships or career development. However, the way that you look can also have a big impact on your self-esteem. Hair loss, in particular, can have a big effect on a man’s self-esteem. This guide is here to help you learn more about how hair loss can affect your self-esteem. This guide aims to help empower those suffering from hair loss by understanding more about the effects of hair loss.
What Causes Hair Loss?
Hair loss, or as it is medically known, alopecia, can come in a range of different forms. Some people will experience hair thinning, hair loss in their hairline, or hair loss on their head and eyebrows. Hair loss is caused by several different factors, such as:
1. Aging
Ageing is the most common cause of hair loss in both men and women. This is a heredity condition that is called androgenic alopecia, male or female-pattern baldness. Hair loss that is caused by aging usually develops in similar patterns; hair begins to thin, the hairline starts to recede, and bald spots begin to appear.
2. Hormonal Changes
Hormonal changes are another cause of hair loss; this is most common for women during pregnancy, childbirth, or menopause. Men and women can also suffer hormonal hair loss as a result of thyroid problems. Hair loss as a result of hormonal changes can be temporary or permanent.
3. Medical Conditions
Medical conditions such as alopecia areata, ringworm, or hair-pulling disorder (trichotillomania) can also cause hair loss in both men and women.
4. Medications and Medical Treatments
Medication and medical treatments can also cause hair loss for men and women. Treatments for cancer can cause hair loss as well as medications used in the treatment of depression, heart conditions, and arthritis.
5. Stress
Hair loss can also be a result of stress or a reaction to a stressful event. This hair loss might continue for several months but is usually only temporary.
6. Weight Loss
Losing a significant amount of weight or being substantially underweight can also cause hair loss. If you believe your hair loss is being caused by your weight you should consult a health care professional as soon as possible.
Hair Loss and Self-Esteem
Hair loss can have a significant impact on the self-esteem of those who are suffering its effects. Studies have found that hair loss commonly leads to loss of self-esteem and less confidence. Hair loss more commonly affects men than it affects women. Studieshave found that hair loss in men can lead to a decreased quality of life and can have a big impact on interpersonal relationships. Hair loss will affect individuals differently, but it is not uncommon for those suffering from it to feel less attractive, less confident, and in general, suffer from a lowered self-esteem.
How to Combat Hair Loss
If you are experiencing lowered self-esteem due to hair loss, there is absolutely no reason you should suffer in silence. There are a variety of actions that can be taken to help combat the effects of hair loss; these include:
- Speaking to a therapist about the psychological effects of hair loss
- Consult a dermatologist to talk about skin treatments to prevent further hair loss
- Talk to a doctor about drugs that combat male and female-pattern baldness
- Consult a professional regarding hair transplant surgery
For some people, hair loss is a completely natural occurrence, but if you are suffering due to hair loss, you should do all you can to reduce its effects on your self-esteem.