Trichotillomania is a disorder that causes an irresistible urge to pull out hair from the scalp, eyebrows or other areas of the body. Research reveals that it may affect up to 4 percent of the population; women are four times more likely to be affected than men. Symptoms usually begin in early childhood or adolescence and often persist until treatment is sought.
Causes of Trichotillomania
Research is yet to reveal the cause of it, but it’s likely that several factors contribute to the condition. Some experts believe that hair pulling may be a way to temporarily relieve emotional distress. Others believe that genetics, hormone fluctuations or changes in chemical messengers in the brain may be to blame.
Complications of Trich
Trichotillomania can cause bald patches or total baldness, which can lead to low confidence and self-esteem. Women may deny pulling out their hair and avoid activities where their bald patches could be noticed, such as going swimming or visiting the hairdresser. They may also change their hairstyle or wear hairpieces, wigs or false eyelashes to disguise their lost hair. Some women feel frustrated or angry about being unable to control their urges, and may use nicotine; alcohol or other drugs a way of coping.
Celebrities With Trich
Trichotillomania doesn’t discriminate. Even the rich and famous can be affected by the condition. Here are three celebrities who’ve been diagnosed with trich.
Olivia Munn
Actress and model Olivia Munn has anxiety so severe it causes her to pull out her eyelashes. The “X-Men Apocalypse” star wears false eyelashes to disguise her lost hair.
Charlize Theron
Actress and film producer Charlize Theron revealed her personal struggle with trichotillomania during an interview on an Australian radio show in 2012. In her professional life, she played as Mavis Gary, a ghostwriter with trich, in the American comedy-drama film “Young Adult.”
Megan Fox
Actress and model Megan Fox has trichotillomania and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). OCD is not the same as trich, although it involves irresistible urges to perform repetitive behaviors to relieve anxiety.
Trichotillomania can be distressing, but there are ways to manage the condition. By working with a physician or therapist, women with trich can reduce or eliminate the urge to pull out their hair.
If you’re suffering from trichotillomania Genesis II offers cut and customized human hair wigs that will make you feel beautiful. We understand how difficult the struggle can be and we will be with you every step of the way. To schedule a free consultation call us at (315) 458-1074 or to contact us via email click here.
Photo Credit: CollegeDegrees360 Via Flickr Creative Commons
Sources:
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001517.htm
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-2180727/Olivia-Munn-reveals-rips-eyelashes-trichotillomania.html#ixzz4KDEYc1tC
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/obsessive-compulsive-disorder-ocd/index.shtml
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/trichotillomania/basics/complications/con-20030043
