Would you know what do to if your hair starting falling out?
Losing our hair is something that is out our hands, we can't control it even though it's something that means so much to us.
Hair loss now affects 41 per cent of people in the UK according to a new report by Viviscal natural hair loss supplements, released to mark the beginning of Hair Loss Awareness Month (1st - 31st May 2012).
The National Health Awareness campaign sponsored by Viviscal, aims to raise awareness of hair loss, the emotional implications and the help available to those affected.
Despite the high incident rates and the far reaching consequences of hair loss, the report reveals that 41 per cent of people wouldn't visit the doctor about their hair loss as they believe they would be unable to help and 69 per cent of those suffering haven't sought any kind of treatment for their hair loss at all. Despite there being many products on the market aimed at combating hair loss, there is still a need for education and advice to bridge this gap.
Trisha Buller comments: "People are not always sure where to go and what to do when they are suffering hair loss. GPs only study the hair and scalp for a small part of the medical training therefore consulting a trichologist may provide a more thorough consultation.
"Trichologists will carry out an in depth consultation taking an holistic approach, so all medical, and family history is discussed to enable an accurate diagnosis and prognosis.
"People will often buy and try anything that claims it will make your hair look thicker and healthier, the fact is they need professional advice and guidance on what to use, how to use it and the benefits the product will give. It is often numerous factors that contribute to hair shedding or loss so sufferers need to address their health, lifestyle and nutritional choices."
Both men and women are affected by hair loss with 54 per cent of males and 29 per cent of females experiencing hair loss at some point in their lives. Of those suffering 70 per cent feel that their hair loss is a permanent issue, affecting them both physically and emotionally.
This year expert Trichologist Trisha Buller and Heath Psychologist Dr Victoria Senior are supporting National Hair Loss Awareness Month, providing insight and advice based on the findings of the new Viviscal report and offering support to sufferers.
Dr Victoria Senior, Health Psychologist from Surrey University comments, "One of the striking findings of this report is the extent to which many respondents seemed to believe there is little they can do about hair loss despite the large psychological and social impact hair loss has for many people. This is reflected in the belief that hair loss is permanent, that the majority of respondents would not seek treatment advice from a doctor, and the beliefs that people have regarding the reasons for hair loss. This clearly needs addressing given that large numbers of people report that hair loss has a psychological impact on them, affecting their self-esteem and confidence and resulting in feeling depressed in some cases. Understanding that hair loss may be both preventable and controllable may help encourage people to seek advice and treatment from experts and also result in lower levels of psychological problems by giving people hope for the future."
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