The Lived Experience of Women with Alopecia: A Qualitative Study Investigating the Psychological, Social and Emotional Impact of Alopecia in Greek Women

This qualitative study examined the psychological, social, and emotional impact of alopecia on 10 Greek women aged 20-55 years. Four main themes emerged from the semi-structured interviews: women's functionality and adaptability, environmental attitudes and expectations, women's attitudes towards treatment, and the impact of the disease. The study found that alopecia significantly affected the women's daily lives, social and partner relationships, and self-perception, especially in the workplace. Many women reported difficulties in readjusting to their social life and chose to wear wigs. The attitudes of their social environment varied, with some being supportive and others not. The women's attitudes towards existing treatments were influenced by their limited or no efficacy. The study suggests that future research should include men and other forms of alopecia.