The Fine Anthology: Installment #7
Alopecia and the Complexities of Hair Loss
There are many causes and types of alopecia (which is the medical term for hair loss).
Hair was once critical to survival.
Before we explain the various manifestations of alopecia, it’s worth exploring the intricate relationship that we have with our hair, and reasons why it’s difficult to see it go…
Humans evolved with body hair as a form of natural protection. Hair provides heat regulation and elemental shielding, preserves hydration, promotes skin health, and speeds wound recovery.
Hairs even aid in toxin excretion (awesome, in the unlikely event of arsenic overload).
With frigid temps, a thick nest of hair is like nature’s original beanie. And in the heat, our scalp hairs are thought to regulate and cool brain temperature. From an evolutionary standpoint, it’s not surprising that our overall hair count is slightly less than that of apes.
But in our world today, we have invented more advanced ways to help us cope with environmental hazards, temperature control, and medical recovery. Clothing, medicine, and moisturizers step in where hairs once reigned.
Our hairs are almost as abundant as apes – they just happen to be smaller and paler.
It could be argued that hair is becoming obsolete.
But while we abandoned rotary dial phones with glee, and unibrows could disappear without much lamentation, most folks would choose to swim with rhinos before giving up their locks. The truth is, our psychological relationship with our hair runs deeper than the Congo (uh, the deepest river in the world? Yep, that speaks volumes).
I’m invested in helping my clients develop a satisfying relationship with their hair, or lack of it.
Salon chairs revolve around a desire that many of us share – we want to look and feel our best. Somehow, hair can become a barometer for our general outlook at any given moment.
I can’t count the number of times I’ve heard clients relay the challenges they faced on “bad hair days''. And yes, hair takes the blame. On the flip side, I have seen – time and again – the way my clients instantly light up with confidence when I show them their fresh, fabulous styles.
Our affinity with hair has evolved into a bittersweet partnership. We pamper some hairs because our sense of self is all wrapped up with them. Oddly, we then wax and shave the dickens out of others (location, location, location!). Whenever possible, we seek control over our "hairscape".
Most folks would choose to swim with rhinos before giving up their locks, but our hair is not what defines us.
Call your dermatologist if you are noticing unusual hair loss.
According to Dr Meena Singh (Board Certified Dermatologist and Hair-Restoration Specialist), early recognition, diagnosis, and management is important when it comes to treating alopecia.
In some cases, nutritional deficiencies are the culprit. This is an easy fix.
Sometimes hair loss is related to thyroid issues, which can be corrected. In other cases, medical treatments like scalp injections can make a difference.
Raising awareness for alopecia is critical.
Affected individuals often seek to hide their condition because of stigma, shame, or embarrassment. Jada Pinkett Smith is affected by alopecia areata. As a celebrity, she’s done amazing things to raise awareness. She’s stunning with her new, beautiful look.
At Mara Jade we know that self care is the surest route to confidence.
We believe that inner beauty radiates without bounds. If you feel confident moving through the world without the need to hide or camouflage hair loss, your actions will help break down oppressive “norms”. We support you!
We love you, and we love this quote:
For those of you who feel more comfortable with a hair alternative, such as a wig or toupee, we support you too! Eva and Co. Wigs in Vancouver has been in business since 1971. They have a selection of natural and synthetic styles to choose from, as well as a private fitting room.
Scalp health is important, regardless of your hair count. Mara Jade Boost is full of nourishing vitamins and minerals for your scalp. (We’ve also nixed parabens and sulphates.) Click here to try it.
