What is Trichotillomania?

10th April 2019

Understanding Trichotillomania: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

Trichotillomania (TTM), also known as hair-pulling disorder, is a condition that affects many people worldwide, yet it is rarely discussed in popular media. Those living with Trichotillomania often suffer in silence, feeling isolated due to the lack of widespread awareness about the condition. At Hair InXs, we believe it's crucial to raise awareness, provide guidance, and offer solutions for those affected by this complex disorder.

“Trich” sufferers tend to pull their hair out in response to stressful or anxiety-inducing situations, feeling a sense of relief after pulling the hair out. Whilst the scalp is a likely source for many sufferers, some pull from beards, eyelashes or eyebrows.

What causes trichotillomania?

It’s unclear as to what causes trichotillomania. For some people, it’s a way of dealing with stress and anxiety and a type of self-harm to seek relief from emotional distress. The condition has been compared to obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) as a chemical imbalance in the brain.

Between 1 and 4% of people suffer from trichotillomania. Most prevalent in young adults, particularly women, the majority of sufferers acknowledge that they pull their hair. The disorder has also been known to run in families.

What are the signs of trichotillomania?

The severity of Trichotillomania can vary greatly from person to person. Some individuals may pull out significant portions of hair, resulting in visible bald patches, while others may engage in less noticeable hair-pulling, such as plucking individual strands from their eyebrows or eyelashes.

Common symptoms include:

• Noticeable hair loss: Bald or thinning patches, especially on the scalp, eyebrows, or eyelashes.
• Anxiety or stress: Many people with TTM report hair-pulling as a response to feelings of stress, anxiety, or tension.
• Relief or gratification: A sense of relief or satisfaction after pulling out hair, which reinforces the habit.
• Shame or embarrassment: Feelings of guilt, distress, or self-consciousness about their appearance or behavior, often leading to efforts to conceal hair loss by wearing hats or using makeup.

What Triggers Trichotillomania?

While the exact cause of Trichotillomania remains unclear, it's often linked to a combination of factors, including:

• Stress and Anxiety: TTM can be a way of coping with emotional stress or anxiety.
• Habitual Behavior: Some individuals pull their hair absentmindedly, without realizing they're doing it, often during periods of boredom or relaxation.
• Neurological Factors: Research suggests that there may be a neurological component, where the brain misinterprets signals related to impulse control, similar to other OCD-related conditions.

How to Treat Trichotillomania

If you suspect you are experiencing Trichotillomania, it's essential to seek professional help. While there is no one-size-fits-all cure, several treatments have proven effective in managing the condition:

• Habit Reversal Training (HRT): This behavioral therapy is often the first line of treatment. It involves learning alternative actions to replace the hair-pulling habit. For example, instead of pulling hair, individuals are encouraged to engage in less harmful behaviors, such as squeezing a stress ball or fiddling with a fidget toy.
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps individuals identify the thoughts and emotions triggering their hair-pulling behavior. Over time, individuals can learn coping strategies to manage their urges and reduce hair-pulling.
• Medications: In some cases, doctors may prescribe medications to help manage underlying issues like anxiety or depression, which can exacerbate Trichotillomania symptoms.

Dealing with Hair Loss from Trichotillomania

One of the most challenging aspects of living with Trichotillomania is the visible hair loss that accompanies the condition. This hair loss can significantly impact a person's self-esteem and confidence, adding emotional weight to an already difficult situation. However, there are options to restore a natural look and boost confidence.

At Hair InXs, we understand the psychological toll that hair loss can take. That's why we offer solutions specifically tailored for those dealing with Trichotillomania-related hair loss.

Trichotillomania Hair Solutions in Worthing and Berkshire

Our hair replacement systems are designed to provide a natural, undetectable solution for those with hair loss caused by Trichotillomania. We offer personalised, non-invasive hair integration systems that blend seamlessly with your existing hair. Whether you've experienced thinning patches on the scalp or more extensive hair loss, our hair systems can be customized to meet your needs.

Why Choose Hair InXs for Trichotillomania-Related Hair Loss?

• Non-Damaging Solutions: We use safe, gentle methods that don't involve harsh chemicals or glues. Our hair integration systems allow your natural hair to grow freely, providing a supportive environment for regrowth.
• Customisable Styles: Whether you want to replicate your natural hairstyle or try something new, we can work with you to achieve a look that suits your preferences.
• Discreet and Comfortable: Our hair systems are lightweight, breathable, and designed for long-term comfort, ensuring you feel confident and at ease throughout the day.

Book a Consultation Today

If you are living with Trichotillomania and are looking for a solution that can help restore your confidence, we're here to help. At Hair InXs, we've worked with many clients facing hair loss due to TTM and are committed to providing a compassionate, supportive experience.

We also offer home consultations, where one of our hair specialists can visit you to discuss your needs in the comfort of your own home. We understand that privacy and comfort are important, and we're here to accommodate you.

Contact Us for More Information

If you are suffering from hair loss or thinning hair, our friendly specialists can assist with a solution tailored to you. Contact us today on 01628 660527.