Experts say that it is normal to lose up to 100 hairs daily. However, if you start noticing that your hair loss is going out of hand to the point that clumps of hair start to fall off, that is already a cause for alarm. It is best to see a dermatologist right away, so they can properly diagnose your condition and see if you indeed have alopecia or not.
Alopecia can happen to anyone at any age, but it is more common in adults. Men’s risk of developing alopecia areata starts at 25 years old. There is no known cure for alopecia, but there are treatments that can help stop or slow down hair loss, including the following:
- Steroid injections
- Topical immunotherapy
- Minoxidil (Rogaine)
If your dermatologist diagnosed you with alopecia, know that you are not alone. Statistics show that 6.8 million people in the US suffer from this condition.
Alopecia can do a number on your confidence, especially if you are used to having a full head of hair. For most people, their hair is their crowning glory. Without it, they feel naked and exposed. If you are struggling with your confidence after getting alopecia, here are some tips that can help you regain your confidence.
Educate Yourself About the Condition
The first step in regaining your confidence is to educate yourself about the condition. Alopecia is an autoimmune disease that causes hair loss. Alopecia areata is treatable and reversible, but there is no cure for it yet. Once you have a better understanding of the condition, it will be easier for you to accept it.
Find out everything about your condition — from the signs and causes to the available treatments. The more you know about it, the more empowered you will feel to face it.
If your alopecia falls under the treatable and reversible category, you have the option to undergo treatment. But if your diagnosis falls under permanent alopecia, you have to accept that fact and learn to live with it. It won’t be easy, but remember that you are not your hair.
Consider Wearing a Wig or Other Hair Accessories
Alopecia might have taken away your hair, but it cannot take away your inner and outer beauty. You are still the same person you were before you got alopecia. It might be hard at first, but once you have embraced your new look, it will be easier for you to feel confident about yourself.
One way to do this is by using hair accessories that make you feel good about yourself. This can be a scarf or hat. If you are not ready to show the world your bald head just yet, then wearing a wig is an excellent way to transition into your new look.
Another option is to wear a wig. Wigs now look and feel natural and are available in different colors, lengths, and styles. You only need to find a professional wig salon near you, and you can start shopping for the perfect wig that will help you feel more confident about yourself.
When looking for a wig, you can find one similar to your old hair or have fun by trying a new hairstyle that you have always wanted to try. Wigs allow you to experiment with your look without worrying about damaging your hair. This is also a more convenient way of dressing up and down since you can just put your wig on or take it off when you want to.
Create a Positive Mindset
The first step to regaining your confidence is to have a positive mindset. You need to believe that you are still beautiful, even without hair. Easier said than done, but it is possible. The faster you accept your diagnosis, the easier it will be to come to terms with it, and the easier it will be for you to move on.
Some people might think you are weird or different because of your condition. But don’t let their negativity bring you down. Focus on the positive things in your life and the people who love and support you.
One way to create a positive mindset is to surround yourself with positive people. Seek support groups or online forums where you can interact with people going through the same thing. Talking to others who understand what you are going through can help you feel less alone and more positive about your condition.
It also helps that you do things that make you feel good about yourself. This can be anything from working out to meditating or even just taking a relaxing bath. When you take care of yourself and do things that make you happy, it will reflect in your overall demeanor and will help you feel more confident.
Seek Professional Help if Needed
If you struggle to come to terms with your condition, it will help you seek professional help. Talking to a therapist can help you deal with the emotional impact of alopecia. They can also help you develop coping mechanisms to deal with the stress and anxiety that comes with the condition.
Remember that asking for an expert’s help is only a sign of strength. This is because you are taking charge of your life and willing to do whatever it takes to improve your current situation. Professional help can go a long way in helping you cope and eventually regain your confidence.
Your therapist can recommend other resources to help you deal with your condition. They might also know of available treatments. The more you know about it, the more empowered you will feel to face it.
An alopecia diagnosis can be a complex condition to deal with, but it does not have to ruin your confidence. Remember that you are still the same person you were before you got alopecia. Learning to embrace your new look and cope with your condition can help you regain confidence and self-esteem.
