Hair loss affects about 80 million men and women in the U.S. Although the causes of hair loss vary, male and female pattern baldness is usually the biggest culprit. Regardless of the cause, hair loss can not only affect your self-esteem and confidence, it can also have real effects on your career and dating life.
Studies show that both men and women feel hair loss creates a disadvantage in their business, social and romantic lives.
Concerns About Hair Loss
A study of the psychosocial impact of hair loss among 1,536 European men found that once participants realized they were losing hair, their main concerns were the impact it would have on:
- Personal attractiveness (43%)
- Fear of becoming bald (42%)
- Concern about getting older (37%)
- Negative impact on social life (22%)
Career Opportunities
When it comes to your career opportunities, hair loss can sometimes be the difference between one job candidate and the next. A study by the EMNID Institut in Munich found that bald men were twice as likely to be turned down for a job than those with hair. The International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS) reported that 77% of adults would be concerned if they were at the beginning of their career and began to experience noticeable hair loss.
Dating and Desirability
Unfortunately, these disadvantages extend to dating as well. The ISHRS also found that about two-thirds of adults would be concerned if they were dating and experienced noticeable hair loss. And, with 25% of men beginning to see male pattern baldness before they turn 21, this can impact a significant portion of their dating experiences.
When it comes to desirability and finding a partner, changing gender roles have made hair loss even more of a factor—especially for men. The New York Times notes that, while in the past women were perceived as having to settle down by a certain age, changing social trends and gender roles are causing men to feel some of those same pressures.
Michael Kimmel, a professor at the State University of New York, cites a study that notes that women of the 1930s were more focused on a man’s earning capacity than their looks. “But now,” Mr. Kimmel says, “women are able to provide for a family, so they are more able to focus as well on physical features.”
Hair Restoration Options
Thankfully, you can do something about your hair loss. Whether it’s a nonsurgical treatment or full hair restoration, you can take back the advantages you may have lost due to hair loss. To learn more about your hair restoration options, download Bosley’s FREE guidebook, The Complete Book On Hair Restoration, to see how great your hair can look.
