Salon Stories: The Silent Battle with Trichotillomania
In my pursuit to help women get the hair of their dreams, I’ve come face-to face-with multiple medical conditions that many women battle, often alone and in silence. Based on a 2013 study, 1 in every 50 people suffer from trichotillomania (source). We have only just begun using social media and online platforms to document and support the experiences of people who suffer from diagnosed mental conditions. In sharing my approach to providing my client with some relief from this condition, I hope to raise awareness. Trichotillomania hasn't been discussed in major hair extensions workshops, blogs, or beauty expos. It’s time to change that.
What is trichotillomania?
Trichotillomania is an impulse control disorder that causes the patient to pull out the hair from their head, eyebrows, and other places on their body. Hair pulling is often compulsive and used as a coping mechanism by those suffering from severe anxiety. In many cases, hair pulling actions become an unconscious act and cannot be treated without intensive behaviour therapy.
Hair Extensions Solutions for Trichotillomania
Here’s how I’ve assisted my clients with thinning hair caused by trichotillomania. In most cases, women (and anyone) suffering from this condition will have bald or nearly bald patches on their crown. Installing hair and establishing a hair routine around self-care can be a great first step in relieving this issue. Hair extensions require maintenance. Many of my clients with trichotillomania have claimed this routine soothes their anxiety and desire to continue ‘picking’ or ‘pulling’. They feel beautiful and see nearly instant results. Because of a customized application process, my clients are able to regrow the thinning patches of hair and reclaim their confidence.
Details for Hair Nerds:
I used the highest quality 18" keratin tip hair extensions sourced from Secret of Medusa. There are two reasons to use keratin tipped extensions for the areas of concern:
— If a relapse occurred, Keratin extensions have a stronger bond than other types.
— Keratin tips are customizable. You can have them cut to half or even ¼ the size. *This means you can adjust the weight of each tip install to the amount that each hair strand can support and prevent further damage.
Beware of after-market hair extension suppliers. They will claim to make keratin tipped extensions at a discounted price. The reality is that they use low-quality glue ingredients that WILL damage hair. These after-market brands use an inferior product but market it with the same advertising terms that major brands use. Always choose a trusted, reputable brand.
