The psychological consequences of androgenetic alopecia: A systematic review

Abstract

Androgenetic alopecia is a common dermatologic condition characterized by progressive hair loss. The hair loss generally begins after puberty and is more commonly seen in males than females. It affects up to 80% of males and 50% of females over the course of their lifetime. 1 The hair loss is a result of dihydrotestosterone (DHT)'s effect on androgen-sensitive hair follicles, which leads to miniaturization of the follicle and a shortened hair growth cycle. 1 In males, this presents as recession of the frontal hairline, thinning of hair over the vertex scalp, and eventual balding. In females, this primarily presents with hair thinning over the vertex scalp. Although it is often believed to be a benign medical condition, androgenetic alopecia can have a dramatic effect on one's appearance and self-esteem. In our society, a head full of hair is a key component of the ideal body image. 2 Therefore, hair loss can drastically reduce body image satisfaction. 3

Hair loss is a symptom of many complex medical and psychological problems

“…2 The authors emphasize the crucial role of dermatologists in not only managing the physical aspects of hair loss, but also addressing the psychosocial consequences androgenetic alopecia. 3 Telogen effluvium is a common, yet relatively underexplored cause of hair loss. 4 It has become a topic of several studies recently since it is a common post-COVID-19 symptom.…”

“…The current JEADV issue features a comprehensive review article that describes the diagnostic and therapeutic aspects of androgenetic alopecia associated with polycystic ovarian syndrome 2 . The authors emphasize the crucial role of dermatologists in not only managing the physical aspects of hair loss, but also addressing the psychosocial consequences androgenetic alopecia 3 …”

Effect of Microneedle on Hair Regrowth in Patients with Androgenetic Alopecia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

“…Even though the medical nature of offending condition is benign, AGA can have damaging psychological consequences. 3 Although AGA is very prevalent condition in modern culture, approved therapeutic options and efficient therapies are limited. 4 At present, among a variety of treatments such as drugs, surgery, nutrition, and laser programs that can be used to treat this chronic disease, the only external treatment recommended by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration is minoxidil.…”

The effectiveness of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy for social anxiety symptoms in people living with alopecia areata: a single-group case-series design

“…For example, sexuality, attractiveness and personality are more symbolically linked to a woman's hair than a man's hair (Hunt and McHale, 2005), and women report that problems adjusting to their condition are exacerbated because baldness in women is not socially acceptable (Hunt and McHale, 2004). Consequently, the psychosocial impact of AA is typically more severe in women than men (Aukerman and Jafferany, 2022).…”