Saturday, December 22, 2012

Trichotillomania or Trich an Impulse Control Disorder

Trichotillomania or Trich an Impulse Control disorder where an individual has an overwhelming urge to pull out their hair, they will experience a brief sense of elation while doing so but after affects are debilitating. As a hair loss expert working with hundreds of clients with Trichotillomania, I have found that the lives of sufferer and their families are turned upside down. 


Below is a link to view Channel 5 Boston News Segment on Trichotillomania
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dU2pJNdUJXE 

There is no known cure for Trich and the medical industry is baffled.  Patients are prescribed anti-anxiety cocktails which render zombies with no hair.  Our studies find early intervention is helpful and it is important for parents to look for the warning signs.  

.  Trich affects females 80% more than males
.  Trich can start as young as one year old
.  Watch for constant hair twirling

This is what Trich looks like and you would never know in the fashion this client normally wears her hair. She pulls it all up and leaves a bang section that hides the front.

Inevitably, there will be a time that the sufferer is called out and now they are faced with what to do.

Best Approach

Raise self esteem by adding hair to the area by utilizing a hair loss system.  The system should never be glued onto the hair.  Instead, it is best to have the hair loss system tied into the hair.  Utilizing micro hair extensions around the perimeter of the hair loss is a safe approach.  The hair extensions serve as an anchor to hold the system in place and a pliable string is attached from the hair system onto the hair extensions.  The application is tension free and will not cause further hair loss.

What has been discovered

The hair loss system serves as a barrier and a reminder for the sufferer and they do not touch their hair.  Moreover, while the area is covered, new hair is growing!  The hair loss system is tightened every 6 weeks or so and with each visit the client with Trichotillomania gains confidence as they experience new hair growth.  Many stop pulling and the impulse to pull is unlearned.  This is a gift to the person who once would not leave their house and self esteem was at it lowest.

This is what the hair loss system, combined with hair extensions look like.  Since most people with Trich are young - they appreciate this modern look.

The hair system is for all ages and more mature clients may prefer a shorter style, but any style can be achieved!












Do not fall prey to Hair Clubs that shave and glue hair onto clients or require contracts with a hefty price.  Trichotillomania is more common than imagined.  Never discount psychotherapy, but it is paramount to approach one's look in conjunction with talk therapy.

Always ask for a free consultation, ask questions, receive written instructions and a two week follow up appointment.  Trichotillomania can be successfully  treated and those with it can lead an active and normal life!

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