TLDR Hair loss can cause low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression in men.
Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) can have negative psychological effects on men, including decreased self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. Men with AGA are more likely to experience psychological distress and have a lower quality of life compared to those without AGA. Studies have found that male pattern baldness can negatively impact self-esteem, body image, and social interactions. Healthcare professionals should address these concerns to manage the condition effectively. Men with high levels of hair loss and those who experience hair loss at an earlier age report more negative events and diminished positive events, resulting in greater overall body image dissatisfaction.
38 citations
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January 1991 in “International Journal of Dermatology” Men over 35 with hair improvement felt better psychologically, while younger men felt better even without hair improvement.
68 citations
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February 1990 in “Journal of Applied Social Psychology” Bald men are often viewed more negatively and as older than they really are.
5 citations
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July 2000 in “Southern Medical Journal” Male pattern baldness is often genetic and linked to a hormone, with treatments like finasteride and minoxidil being effective for some men.
180 citations
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September 1999 in “British Journal of Dermatology” Hair loss affects self-esteem and quality of life; treatments can help.
Photobiomodulation improves the quality of life for people with hair loss.
2 citations
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December 2021 in “Cureus” Low vitamin D levels are linked to hair loss, and vitamin D might help treat it.
53 citations
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February 2020 in “Expert Opinion on Pharmacotherapy” Finasteride and minoxidil work best together for hair loss.
August 2025 in “Annals of Indian Psychiatry” Hair loss can affect mood, self-esteem, body image, and quality of life.