Androgenetic alopecia is, for most men, an unwanted and stressful event that diminishes satisfaction with their body image. Only 8% of non-balding men stated that going bald would concern them, while 50% with mild hair loss and 75% with moderate to severe hair loss were concerned. They said it made them look older and less physically and sexually attractive than their non-balding peers.25
Nevertheless, most men deal with their hair loss without it impairing their psychosocial functioning. The most distressed balding men are those with more extensive hair loss, those who are younger, have an earlier onset, and deem their balding as progressive (often arising from observation of their father) and socially noticeable. Men who are romantically unattached are also more likely to be distressed by balding.25
Men outside these groups are more likely to seek treatment when they lack a strong, positive, body image. For such men any medical and surgical treatment should be complemented by measures to enhance self esteem.
