Br J Dermatol. 1999;141:398.Consequences of Pattern hair loss.

Cash TF.

edited and modified for hair loss blog use

…Hair loss is a common dermatological condition, with potentially adverse psychosocial sequelae. We examines evidence concerning the effects of hair loss on social processes and psychological functioning, as well as the psychosocial outcomes of hair loss treatments. There is a negative but modest effect of visible hair loss on social perceptions. More importantly, androgenetic alopecia is typically experienced as a moderately stressful condition that diminishes body image satisfaction. Deleterious effects on self-esteem and certain facets of psychological adjustment are more apparent among women than men and among treatment-seeking patients. Various ‘risk factors’ vis-à-vis the psychological adversity of pattern hair loss are identified. Medical treatments, i.e. minoxidil and finasteride, appear to have some psychological efficacy. A conceptual model is delineated to explain the psychological effects of hair loss and its treatment. Directions for needed research are discussed….