Hair loss is taking a toll on women’s self-esteem and social lives, with many spending hundreds on treatments, new research reveals.
Hair loss leaves women grappling with social isolation, and hefty expenses, new research reveals. A survey of 1,000 women who have suffered hair thinning or loss discovered that for six in 10 (59%), it has had a devastating impact on their day-to-day life – from sleep, to relationships with partners.
A staggering 70% revealed their self-confidence has been severely damaged, whilst 52% said they feel like they no longer recognise themselves. This was particularly prevalent among peri-menopausal women, when issues like hair loss are more prone to emerge. Furthermore, 34% of all women surveyed admitted they have avoided social gatherings because they felt self-conscious.
Hannah Gaboardi, trichologist and ambassador for Viviscal, which commissioned the study, explained: “Hair is a key part of your identity, so losing it – especially without knowing why – can be very difficult.
“The experience varies: some women notice rapid loss, others a gradual shedding, and some a general thinning over time.
“Regardless of the pattern, it usually has a negative impact, leading to reduced confidence and a diminished sense of self – particularly for women in the early stages of menopause.”
Nine in 10 have experimented with a range of solutions to get their hair back to how it was. Over half have turned to volumizing shampoos or conditioners, while 47% have turned to supplements to boost growth, and 11% have opted for hair extensions or thickening fibres.
However, 35% are reluctant to seek any form of treatment, citing concerns about wasting money, according to the OnePoll.com figures.
Women who have not yet reached menopause are the most ‘determined to find a solution’ (24%), twice as many as those who are currently menopausal. While, 22% aren’t sure who to turn to for advice, and one in five (21%) lack confidence in knowing what treatment they actually need.
The emotions most commonly linked to hair loss were sadness (51%), frustration (44%), and anxiety (43%). Among women who do invest in treatments, annual spending can reach as much as £319 in their efforts to tackle the condition.
Hannah Gaboardi added: “There’s a lot of conflicting advice about how to tackle hair loss. Many people become so confused that they end up spending time and money on solutions that don’t work.
“It’s always best to follow the science and choose products with clear clinical results if it’s something that concerns you.”
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