Welcome to the World Hair Council

Understanding quality-of-life issues – for men and women

Hair loss is often thought of as a problem for men. But many women suffer in silence, too. In fact, a 2016 hair loss survey by the research organisation Opinion Health in cooperation with WHC showed that 71% of women reported experiencing some form of hair loss in their life.

In the survey, factors such as:

• Stress
• Menopause
• Childbirth
• Medication
• Diet

Were perceived as the top 5 contributors for hair loss.

In addition, 78% of women feel their life today is generally more stressful than five years ago.

Of these, 89% say that this has an impact on their hair’s physical appearance.

Source: Opinion Health, Hair Loss Study, Mar 2016

Finding help coping

When asked who they turn to for help with the physical, emotional, and psychological effects of hair loss, just 18% of respondents in the same survey said they consulted a medical professional:

•  30% spoke briefly to their hairdresser about temporary cosmetics solutions
• 34% turned to a friend or family member to talk to about their emotional frustration
• 46% suffered in silence not knowing where to turn to for help
• 18% turned to a general practitioner for guidance

Source: Opinion Health, Hair Loss Study, Mar 2016

Closing the Treatment Gap

Of the 18% who turned to a general practitioner, the overwhelming majority felt that their general practitioner did not take them or the problem seriously enough, and in many instances did not really know how to deal with hair growth issues.

This caused increased stress and frustration and had a negative psychological impact on hair loss sufferers. Ultimately, this led to a reduced quality of life and a worsening of the problem. The World Hair Council is taking steps to educate physicians to help close the communication gap.

Empowering men and women globally

The World Hair Council’s mission is to empower men and women suffering hair growth disruption. We do this by continuously providing resources that close the communication gap to healthcare professionals and improve the overall knowledge about hair loss treatment.