Trichotillomania (Hair Pulling) Treatments

Trichotillomania – also known as “hair pulling” – is an impulse control disorder where an individual suffers from a compulsion to pull out his or her own hair. The pulling is usually focused on the scalp but may also be done on other body parts like the eyebrows, moustache, arms, and legs.

Also referred to as trich or TTM, this disorder affects around 4 per cent of people worldwide. However, experts believe the number could be higher as trichotillomania is often underdiagnosed. Many sufferers do not get professional help due to the stigma associated with mental health issues.

Trichotillomania affects both males and females. However, in adults, women are 5 to 10 times more likely to engage in hair pulling. To add, it tends to be more common in children and adolescents, particularly in the 10 to 13 age group.

The onset of trichotillomania can happen as early as 22 months. But in most cases, it begins during the early teen years. To add, no onsets have been recorded past the age of 60.

Have you been getting repeated urges to pull out your hair? Do you feel relieved after giving in to the urge? Schedule a consultation with our specialist to determine if you have a hair pulling disorder.

How Do You Cure Trichotillomania?

Trich is a chronic condition that causes significant distress to those who have it, but there are effective treatments that can help you feel better and more in control of your life.

Behaviour therapy is often the first treatment that’s recommended for this condition. In this treatment, you will learn how to recognise when you’re feeling the urge to pull your hair and how to cope with it in healthy ways.

You will also learn how to deal with stressors in your life. Trichotillomania is often triggered by stress or anxiety, so learning how to manage these feelings will be key to getting better.

You may also need medications for hair loss. The specialist may prescribe medicines to promote hair growth and strengthen existing hair.

If you have been diagnosed with trichotillomania, it is essential that you get treatment right away because the longer you wait, the harder it will be to stop pulling your hair out.

As a registered personal care provider member of The Trichotillomania Learning Centre (Santa Cruz), Universal Hair & Scalp Clinic offer effective treatments to help you or your loved one overcome this distressing condition.

What Should I Do If I Have Trichotillomania?

Trichotillomania can cause emotional distress, low self-esteem, and embarrassment. It can also lead to problems at school or work if you cannot hide your hair loss.

The first thing you should do if you think you might have trichotillomania is to see a specialist. There are many different ways to treat trichotillomania, so getting an accurate diagnosis from a professional who can recommend the best course of action for your unique case is critical.

Are you worried you might have a hair pulling disorder? Book a consultation with our trichotillomania specialist now! Contact our friendly, experienced staff at 01 6793618 or info@universalhairclinic.ie.