The causes of hair loss are numerous and range all the way from genetics to disorders such as trichotillomania. Once treatment has been sought out for the disorder, you may be afraid that you will have to wait months for your hair to grow back or even worse, live with permanent hair loss. This couldn't be further from the truth! In fact, when you seek the services of a reputable hair restoration studio, you will have plenty of options to restore your full head of hair sooner than you ever thought possible. Here's what you need to know about trichotillomania!
What is Trichotillomania?
This condition is known as the "hair-pulling" disorder. Trichotillomania is characterized by repetitively and compulsively pulling hair. Even though most individuals pull hair from their head, it can be hair from anywhere on the body, including eyebrows and eyelashes. This condition leaves patchy, uneven bald spots on the areas where has been pulled from. This not only disrupts day-to-day life but can also cause permanent hair loss.
Symptoms of Trichotillomania
Cases of trichotillomania can range from mild to very severe. The most common symptoms include:
Repeatedly pulling hair out
Feelings of tension prior to pulling hair
Feelings of pleasure while engaging in hair pulling
Noticeable thinning and/or hair loss
Keeping hair a certain style or length that coincides with preferences for hair pulling
Eating or even chewing on hair that has been pulled out
The inability to stop pulling hair, even if the individual wishes to do so
Interferes with daily activities
Two Types of Trichotillomania
There are two types of trichotillomania and individuals with the disorder do not necessarily have just one or the other. A lot of times those with trichotillomania will do both.
Focused Trichotillomania
This occurs when an individual purposefully pulls hair in an effort to relieve stress. For instance, this could be after a long day at work or after an uncomfortable social engagement. The person is very aware of what they are doing and choosing to actively engage in pulling their hair out.
Compulsive Trichotillomania
When it becomes a compulsive behavior, the individual doesn't even realize they are doing it. It is kind of like biting your fingernails absent mindedly when you are nervous. With compulsive trichotillomania, the person does not have control over whether they engage in the behavior.
Risk Factors
Although the exact cause of trichotillomania is not known, there are several risk factors that have been linked to the disorder. These include:
Genetics - The likelihood of developing trichotillomania increases you have a close relative with the disorder.
Age - Trichotillomania tends to develop in the early teen years.
Emotional disorders such as anxiety, depression, or obsessive-compulsive disorder increase the risk.
Treatment
There are a variety of cognitive and behavioral therapies that are used to treat the disorder itself. However, when it comes to treating the resulting hair loss, you need the experience of experienced hair specialists.
Why See a Hair Specialist?
Trichotillomania can cause both temporary and permanent hair loss. Excessive pulling can irreversibly damage the hair follicles, meaning they are unable to grow new strands of hair. Here at New Look Institute, the premier hair restoration studio in San Jose, our hair specialists are experienced in treating hair loss that is a result of this disorder. A full scalp and hair analysis will be conducted to determine if there are any underlying issues and the extent of the damage to the hair follicles. Next, you will be presented with your options. We have a variety of hair loss solutions for women and men to fit any need and budget. Contact us today for your free hair loss analysis!
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