The Emotional and Social Side of Hair Loss

Everyone loses hair from their head at a rate of approximately 100 hairs a day. However, when the body stops producing new hairs to replace the lost ones, or when hair loss occurs at a greater rate than hair regrowth, thinning hair and bald patches can develop. While male pattern baldness is the most common cause of hair loss, affecting at least a third of men by the age of 45, there are many other causes of both male and female baldness, such as alopecia, trichotillomania (a compulsion to pull out one’s own hair), and certain nutrient deficiencies. Regardless of the cause or age at which hair loss begins, it can severely impact self-esteem and make people feel self-conscious and insecure.

The Impact of Baldness

There are certain clichés and opinions associated with baldness, such as men appearing old and 'past it' instead of young and virile like Samson with strong, thick hair. Hair is one of the most definable and recognizable features and losing it can lead to a loss of confidence, attractiveness, and part of one's identity. This can make individuals feel like they are fading into the background. While many older men eventually learn to accept baldness as part of the aging process, younger men in their late 20s to early 30s who notice bald spots, or a receding hairline may experience a range of negative emotions. Although most employers state that they wouldn’t turn down someone for a position or promotion due to baldness, the loss of confidence can affect how well individuals present themselves in interviews or presentations, indirectly impacting their chances.

Hair Loss in Women

An increasing number of women are also suffering from hair loss, often feeling unfeminine and attracting unwanted attention when they already feel unconfident and unattractive. Advertisements for the latest shampoos or hair styling products, featuring celebrities and models with flowing, lustrous hair, send the message that perfect, healthy hair is essential for attractiveness. Similarly, the surge in pills and topical treatments to prevent or reverse hair loss offers a glimmer of hope but ultimately reinforces the same message.

Coping with Hair Loss

People experiencing partial or complete baldness face the choice of either learning to live with their new appearance or finding a way to disguise it. However, disguising hair loss has its pitfalls. Visual gags about unrealistic toupees and the hype surrounding celebrities like Ben Affleck and Wayne Rooney who have had hair transplants highlight the challenges. Efforts to disguise baldness can make individuals feel more self-conscious, and the results may not look convincing. Having hair that looks and feels like their own is a dream come true for hair loss sufferers.

The Total Cover Plus Solution

The Total Cover Plus system uses state-of-the-art material as the 'scalp,' which acts like real skin and allows the scalp to breathe without slipping around (a common issue with hairpieces). It also uses real human hair, which can be styled to the wearer’s specifications and, more importantly, feels authentic. Losing hair can lead to depression, a loss of confidence, and a loss of identity, but having a realistic hair replacement solution that looks and feels natural can help individuals regain their identity and self-worth.