How can young people deal with hair loss

You are young, ambitious and all set to take on the world. You work hard to lead a successful and healthy life. You take care of yourself, eat well, exercise and put your best foot forward in doing whatever you do. And yet, there comes a situation where you might not be completely in command. Hair loss at a young age is one such problem.

Of course, there are various reasons for hair loss in men and women. It could be genetic, a result of a poor lifestyle or disease. But the trauma that young people undergo during and after hair loss is often difficult to comprehend and deal with.

Men who suffer from male pattern baldness at an early age can get very uncomfortable about the situation. Research has found that hair loss amongst young people can have a major psychological impact – it can lead to self-loathing, lack of self-confidence, doubt in one’s attractiveness and even a feeling of undesirability from the opposite sex.

Moreover, if the individual is in a public facing role, hair loss can have profound professional consequences as well. It can lead to people being perceived as old and hence less interested in work. Research shows that employees who are thought of as old are often overlooked when it comes to leading new projects, or even promotions.

Similarly, for young women, hair is a symbol of youth, beauty, fertility as well as confidence. And female pattern baldness at a young age can have a devastating impact. It can lead to low self-esteem, and in a few extreme cases, even depression.

The question then is, how to deal with hair loss? What can young people do if they confront such a situation?

1. Reconcile – It is important to understand that it is not the end of the world. As much as you might prize your hair, there will come a time when you will eventually lose it. Some sooner than others. Believe in your abilities, and reassure yourself that your hair cannot define who you are.

2. Take care – There is a lot to your body than just hair. Upon losing your hair, you can’t get into a shell. You need to be extra careful. Eat well, exercise, and socialize. This will help you stay positive and focus on your life and career.

3. Consider a transplant – Hair transplant or restoration presents a viable solution. Hair Transplantprocedures like FUE Hair transplant(Follicular unit extraction) and FUT (Follicular unit transplantation) are extremely advanced, and young people are beginning to opt for it more than ever. These are pain-free procedures and minimally invasive.

The procedure involves extracting healthy hair follicles from the back and sides of the scalp and replanting them onto the bald or balding spots. In a few months, the new hair starts to grow like normal hair. The results of hair transplant are aesthetically pleasing and appear natural, so you don’t have to worry about it looking fake or out of place.

Since a transplant uses a person’s own hair, it is the most natural way to fight balding.

4. Weigh all your options – It is understandable that you are unnerved by hair loss at a young age. And there are options for you to consider. You can start by seeing a specialist who can advise on the best possible treatment. And till that treatment shows results, try out temporary solutions - wigs or hairpieces.

Other than the above, if you feel that it is becoming increasingly difficult for you to cope with the trauma of hair loss then don’t be shy from seeking psychiatric help. It will give you the opportunity to express yourself and help you reflect and understand one simple fact – hair loss cannot alter the course of your life!