Psychological Effects
Dozens of studies have shown the psychological impact of hair loss on men and women is often devastating. The oft heard phrase, "I'm having a bad hair day" universally means I'm having a bad day. With today's increased emphasis on appearance and success, millions of Americans with thinning hair are choosing hair restoration to bolster their self-image and overall appeal to themselves and to others. As human beings, it is only natural to feel good when we look good and having hair is a big part of looking our best.
While hair loss may be a natural part of the aging process or the byproduct of some medications, it is not considered to be a positive personal change. Many men and women report that their hair loss affects them both personally and professionally. Because society places such an emphasis on appearance, hair loss becomes a negative in both working and social environments. Dozens of studies of hair loss in men and women show a decreased feeling of self esteem often affecting them personally and professionally.
Doctors H.J. Lee and D. Kim conducted a study of 120 balding and non-balding men in 2002. In the study, a survey of questions about these men's appearance was given to 150 women with full heads of hair between the ages of 15-58. The surveys revealed that 90% of the women polled perceived the men with hair loss as being "less attractive and older." Almost 50% of these women reported that the men with hair loss in the study seemed "...less confident, duller and less potent" than the men in the study without any hair loss. This negative perception is considered almost universal among the world's cultures.
Coping With Hair Loss
The initial reaction of hair loss for most people is one of denial. They ignore the early signs and deny it is happening to them. As hair loss progresses and becomes more noticeable, feelings often evolve into mild to severe paranoia. While a small population of men and women deal with hair loss in a healthy manner, most do not.