Study Shows Hair Loss in Women Can Lead to Psychological Problems
Hair loss topped as the greatest concern surpassing sagging skin and gaining weight, each of which gained only 12 percent vote share in this category.
The result is astonishing especially given the fact that UK citizens spend approximately UK £5.2 billion every year on anti-aging and diet products.
According to scientists, hair loss in women is often not taken seriously by physicians.
The study, conducted by leading trichologist and President of the World Trichology Society, Dr David H. Kingsley, details the impact hair loss can have on the mental health of women. The study assesses women against key psychological markers including anxiety, self-esteem, depression and social interaction with a view to establishing an overall quality of life (QOL) score for each patient.
The survey results indicate that hair loss in women needs to be addressed more seriously. Experts also call for a wider acknowledgement and understanding of the psychological impact of female hair loss.
If left untreated, genetic hair loss in women, especially those aged between 20 and 55 over a 24 month period, can lead to long term psychological problems which can increase patients' susceptibility to psychosomatic diseases.
"Although hair loss is not life threatening, it is life altering. Therefore, the message that we're trying to convey from the World Trichology Society is that this is a serious problem and, though there is presently no 100 percent dependable cure, there are treatment options and combinations available that can greatly improve a woman's psychological health and quality of life," according to Dr Kingsley. The study evaluated a woman's QOL score as they began a 6 month course of natural trichology treatments designed to help control further hair loss, support new hair growth, and improve the cosmetic appearance of the hair. The treatment included a combination of topical and supplement therapies, including niacin, menthol, laser therapy, diet advice, and Nourkrin.
All women, ranging from those whose QOL was 'severely' affected by hair loss to those who reported a moderate negative QOL effect, reported that their self-esteem and general outlook on life markedly improved.
Meanwhile another survey of 2,000 UK women, commissioned by Nourkrin, reveals that one in five who sought advice about thinning hair from a GP or other non-specialist health professional felt that their
condition was not taken seriously. Scientists believe that while majority of women admit that losing their hair would be the worst thing that could happen to their appearance, its psychological effects should be given greater priority.
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