The tendency towards the development of psychosexual disorders in androgenetic alopecia according to the different stages of hair loss: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

BackgroundAndrogenetic alopecia is a common dermatological condition affecting both genders.ObjectiveTo evaluate the tendency towards development of psychosexual disorders according to the clinical stages of androgenetic alopecia.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted including 353 patients of both sexes on different clinical stages of hair loss, and the patients were enquired about self-perception, self-esteem, sexual experiences, anxiety and depression states. Hair loss was classified by standardized hair loss scales, and psychological effects were assessed with questionnaires. Results were compared to p<0.05.ResultsNegative effects on each psychological parameter of androgenetic alopecia in females were higher than in males. While overall comparisons according to hair loss stages for each parameter were significant in males, only sexual experiences, anxiety and depression values were significant in females. Sexual experiences and depression values were higher in Ludwig 3 than in 1&2, while anxiety was higher in Ludwig 3 than 1. Self-perception values in Norwood 2&2A were higher than 3A, 3V, 4 and 4A, while self-esteem values in 2A were higher than 3&4. Sexual experiences values in 2&2A were lower than 3, 3A, 3V, 4 and 4A, while 3&3A were lower than 4&4A. Depression was lower in 2A than 3, 3A, and 3V, and lower in 2A than 4A. Anxiety was lower in 2A than in 4&4A.Study limitationsRelatively small number of patients, who were from a single center.ConclusionsIn the management of androgenetic alopecia, it should be considered that patients may need psychological support according to the clinical stages, because of increased tendency to develop psychosexual disorders.

Dermatologic Conditions in Transgender Populations

“…25 In cisgender men, MPHL is associated with anxiety, depression, and sexual dysfunction. 26 MPHL is characterized by hair loss in the temporal scalp, midfrontal scalp, or vertex area of the scalp in a "horseshoe" pattern. The mid-occipital region is mostly unaffected.…”

“…It improves scalp coverage in cis-men, one meta-analysis suggested a 25% increase in hair counts. 26,35,36 It does not interfere with serum testosterone level in transmasculine patients but effects on secondary sex characteristics are still unclear. 30,37 Some have suggested that finasteride should be delayed until all desired gender-affirming changes secondary to hormone therapy are complete (usually after two years of testosterone therapy).…”

The Roles of Non-coding RNA in the Development and Regeneration of Hair Follicles: Current Status and Further Perspectives

“…Hair loss, which is caused by many factors, is far from being cured due to its complex mechanisms. Although hair loss is not regarded as a disease in most circumstances, it significantly impacts the social life and mental health of patients and can cause depression, especially in women ( Tas et al, 2018 ). The best strategy for dealing with hair loss would be diagnosis and treatment by regenerating HFs as early as possible.…”

The psychological and aesthetic impact of age‐related hair changes in females

“…Around 40% have experienced marital problems, while 63% report to have work‐related problems . Several studies have confirmed that hair loss has been more impairing for women than men …”

“…28 Several studies have confirmed that hair loss has been more impairing for women than men. 27,[29][30][31] Another study evaluating parameters that combine the contribution of diameter and density to perception of AGA in females revealed that individuals' self-perception of hair thinning was significantly correlated with hair thinning as assessed by dermatologists. 10 F I G U R E 3 Female demonstrating age-related hair changes such as hair fiber thinning, less scalp hair density, and increase hair porosity contributing to dry appearing hair Moreover, self-perceived hair thinning demonstrated a significant correlation with hair density and hair diameter.…”