Dozens of studies on the psychological impact of hair loss on both men and women paints a pretty clear picture. The result is often devastating, especially considering cultural influences such as an over emphasis on physical appearance and "beauty." Though hair loss may be considered a natural part of the aging process, the side affect of certain medications or even a hormonal imbalance, it is not considered to be a positive personal experience.

So how do millions of people suffering from hair loss typically respond psychologically to a sudden thinning of hair in areas not showing trouble signs before? Some of the common responses we've heard from patients at PAI Medical Indiana include:

• I think about my hair loss constantly, it's running my life.
• I worry about losing all my hair, not just in spots.
• I feel self-conscious.

In addition to the obvious responses for hair loss, many of our patients are genuinely worried about their overall attractiveness and appearance, more so than you would expect in a day and age when hair loss is more commonly diagnosed and treated. It's not uncommon for both men and women to admit that their hair loss affects them both personally and professionally, an altogether unpleasant psychological occurrence directly attributed to deflated self esteem.

A 2002 Study on Hair Loss in Men

A study in 2002 by doctors H.J. Lee and D. Kim used 120 balding and non-balding male participants. The study included a survey of questions focused on physical appearance and was given to 150 women between the ages of 15-58 not experiencing any hair loss.

The results showed that 90% of the women polled viewed or perceived the men suffering from hair loss as being "less attractive and older." Nearly 50% of these same women also reported that the men with hair loss appeared "...less confident, duller and less potent" than the men in the study without any hair loss, thus reinforcing a common, negative perception surrounding hair loss.

The Psychological Effects of Female Hair Loss

Women exhibit a significant psychological investment in their physical appearance, and often the response of hair loss diagnosis in a female patient is noticeably more severe.

To make matter's more frustrating for women suffering from hair loss, there is a definite gap in how female hair loss is perceived, regardless of the fact that hair loss does occur normally for both genders. The diffuse pattern of hair loss that commonly occurs in women is also not easily recognized as male-pattern baldness, and the obvious social implications and lack of public awareness contribute to a growing psychological problem.

Coping with Hair Loss

More and more people coping with thinning hair choose hair transplants and other hair restoration treatments to combat the physical and emotional effects of permanent hair loss.

A thorough, professional consultation is truly your best option for coping with hair loss both short and long term. At PAI Medical Indiana, we fully understand the benefits of a consultative approach and take great pride in walking each of our potential patients step-by-step through the initial process of diagnosing their unique hair loss concerns and potential solutions.

A private, free hair loss consultation with PAI Medical Indiana includes:

1. A complete hair-and-scalp analysis using the latest technology.
2. Diagnosis and discussion of treatment options based on the causes of hair loss.
3. Insight from previous patient procedures, case studies and success stories.
4. Private and complimentary discussion of all your hair loss needs with a PAI Indiana medical professional.

Coping with hair loss doesn't have to be a solo venture. Every customer that walks into our clinic, or interacts with our staff over the phone or online, receives the same professional, compassionate and experienced attention to help you cope and learn how to overcome hair loss today and for years to come.

To learn more about the psychological effects of hair loss and available treatment options, call us at (888) 724-5129 or schedule a free consultation with one of PAI Medical Indiana's hair restoration experts.