Trichotillomania
KIDS PULL THEIR HAIR ALL THE TIME
Throughout life, some degree of hair pulling is normal. Kids pull their own and each other’s. Teens twirl their hair between their fingers. Adults can find themselves literally pulling their hair out due to frustration or stress. None of these indicates a more serious disorder. Trichotillomania is what happens when the urge to pull hair becomes compulsive and the behavior cannot be voluntarily stopped. Many people aren’t even aware when they’re actively pulling their hair.
HAIR HELP ISN'T JUST FOR WOMEN WITH ALOPECIA
At SD Hair loss Center, we understand the causes and results of Trichotillomania. We’ve been helping men, women, and children of all ages deal with their hair pulling for the last 24 years. If you or a loved one is struggling to stop pulling hair, we can be a resource for you. We’ll find natural-looking ways to fill in your hair if you have bald patches. We’ll take great care of your scalp, especially if pulling has caused pain or inflammation. And we’ll help you take steps to reduce stress and eliminate triggers that bring on the urge to pull hair. Since there is a psychological component to Trichotillomania, we can connect you with specialists who practice Cognitive Therapy or Commitment Therapy – types of counseling that can resolve the causes of this type of hair loss.
BEYOND THE SCALP
We understand that hair pulling isn’t confined to the scalp, and trichotillomania can rob women of eyebrows as well. After searching the market for the most natural eyebrow prosthetic available, we’re finally able to offer completely personalized eyebrow prosthetics. Our eyebrows use real hair implanted into a clear, micro-thin base to mimic natural eyebrow growth and replace what’s been lost.
Here Top 10 trichotillomania hair regrowth tips
1. Consult a Dermatologist
The first thing you need to do is visit a Doctor of Dermatology. Doctors will be able to assess your case and recommend proper medications.
Why It’s Important
- Gives you a professional look
- Individualized treatment options (with topical treatments and/or medications)
How the Dermatologist can Help with Trichotillomania?
They can help you find out if there are any dermatologic conditions that contribute to scalp picking, recommend hair regrowth products and offer suggestions for how to stop pulling your hair.
2. Use Gentle Hair Products
Go for mild hair care products by avoiding harmful chemicals.
Recommended Products
- Sulfate-free shampoos
- Natural conditioners
- Hair oils for nourishment
What hair products Not To use?
Stay away from sulfates, parabens and alcohols which limit skin irritation as well hair dryness.
3. Maintain Balanced Diet
Nutrition is one of the most important factors for healthy hair. Eat a nutritious diet full of essential vitamins and minerals.
Nutrients for Hair Growth
- Biotin gain strength in the hair.
- Zinc helps in growth and repair of hair tissue
- Known as Omega-3 Fatty Acids, which nourishes hair and scalp.
What To Eat For Healthier Hair?
Leafy greens, nuts, fish, eggs and whole grains are all foods that will make sure you have the vitamins for hair growth.
4. Practice Stress Reduction
Trichotillomania is intensely associated with stress and as such it is needed to learn how to manage stress rather effectively.
Effective Techniques
- Meditation
- Deep breathing exercises
- Yoga
What causes stress related hair loss?
Stress can induce hair pulling with a disruption of the growing hair cycle and more significant loss.
5. Keep a Hair Journal
Recording instances of hair-pulling can help you identify your triggers and the times when you pull most.
How to Start
- Note when you pull your hair.
- Gather information on when you are engaging in. What emotional states or environments around you might trigger this behavior.
- Goals can be set to decrease hair pulling.
Can journaling really help with trichotillomania?
Journal works because you will pick your own behavior patterns and coping strategies.
6. Try Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is works for managing trichotillomania.
Benefits of Therapy
- Helps identify triggers and develop coping mechanisms.
- Provides a supportive environment to discuss feelings.
What can I expect from therapy for trichotillomania?
Therapy sessions typically focus on understanding your behavior, developing healthier coping strategies, and working through emotional challenges.
7. Use Hair Growth Supplements
Consider incorporating hair growth supplements into your routine to provide additional support for regrowth.
Recommended Supplements:
- Biotin
- Vitamin D
- Collagen
Are hair growth supplements effective?
Many people find supplements beneficial when combined with a healthy diet and lifestyle, but results may vary.
8. Limit Heat and Chemical Treatments
Minimize the use of heat styling tools and chemical treatments to protect your hair.
Safe Alternatives:
- Air-drying
- Natural hairstyles
Why should I avoid heat treatments?
Heat can damage hair, making it more prone to breakage, which is especially concerning for those recovering from trichotillomania.
9. Maintain Scalp Health
A healthy scalp promotes hair growth. Regularly care for your scalp to enhance its condition.
Tips for Scalp Care:
- Exfoliate the scalp to remove dead skin cells.
- Massage your scalp to increase blood circulation.
- Use essential oils, such as rosemary or tea tree oil, to nourish the scalp.
How can I tell if my scalp is healthy?
A healthy scalp should be free of irritation, excessive dryness, and excessive oiliness. It should feel comfortable and support healthy hair growth.
10. Join Support Groups
Connecting with others who understand your struggles can provide invaluable support.
Benefits of Joining Support Groups:
- Share experiences and tips.
- Receive emotional support from peers.
- Gain access to resources and information.
Where can I find support groups for trichotillomania?
Online platforms and local mental health organizations often offer support groups. Check community centers or search for virtual groups online.
Comparison Table of Hair Regrowth Tips
Tip | Work of Implementation | Effectiveness | Cost | Professional Guidance |
Consult a Dermatologist | Moderate | High | Moderate to High | Yes |
Use Gentle Hair Products | Easy | Moderate | Low | No |
Maintain a Balanced Diet | Moderate | High | Low | No |
Practice Mindfulness | Easy | Moderate | Free | No |
Keep a Hair Journal | Easy | Moderate | Free | No |
Try Behavioral Therapy | Moderate | High | High | Yes |
Use Hair Growth Supplements | Easy | Moderate | Moderate | No |
Limit Heat and Chemical Treatments | Easy | Moderate | Free | No |
Maintain Scalp Health | Moderate | Moderate | Low | No |
Join Support Groups | Easy | High | Free | Yes |
At The End
It can be a struggle to regrow hair once you’ve been dealing with trichotillomania, but these 10 tips should make your journey back to beautiful, long locks a ton easier. Each move you make, by following the experts, the healthy lifestyle changes the problem. Use these techniques regularly to support healthier hair growth and to feel better in general.